Hylaine, CAVA, and CapTech recommendations support stronger cybersecurity, increased confidence, and a more resilient foundation for growth
G.A.I.N., Powered by Lowe’s
Rebuilding Together Greater Charlotte (RTGC) mobilizes volunteers and contractors to provide critical home repairs that make homes safer and healthier for neighbors in need throughout the Charlotte region. Through repairs that address common health and safety hazards in older homes, RTGC helps create healthier, more vibrant communities while connecting residents to additional resources and support.
Last year, RTGC participated in Apparo’s G.A.I.N. (Growth, Agility, and Innovation for Nonprofits) program powered by Lowe’s, partnering with skilled volunteers from CAVA and Hylaine, along with a technology mentor from CapTech Consulting. Together, the team developed a technology roadmap designed to strengthen cybersecurity, improve operational efficiency, and support the organization’s long-term growth. Recommendations included network upgrades, enhanced cybersecurity measures, software improvements, and technology planning initiatives.
One year later, RTGC has successfully implemented nearly all of the recommendations outlined in their first-year roadmap. The organization has upgraded its router and access points, implemented multi-factor authentication, adopted new budgeting software, and transitioned to a new fundraising platform, helping improve both operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
Strengthened Technology Foundations
Recently, Apparo’s Sarah Friday, Program Manager, connected with Beth Morrison-North, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Greater Charlotte, to discuss the impact of the G.A.I.N. program one year after completion. While the technology improvements have delivered important operational benefits, Beth shared that the education and knowledge gained throughout the process have been equally valuable.
Beth explained that the G.A.I.N. experience provided much more than project-specific recommendations. The program helped RTGC better understand available technology solutions, cybersecurity risks, and best practices for protecting organizational and client data. As Beth reflected, “Apparo gave us a much stronger foundation. I feel more confident understanding the basics, knowing what we should be watching for, and making sure the organization is where it needs to be.”
Preparing for Future Innovation
The technology roadmap has also helped RTGC become more resilient as new technologies continue to emerge. Beth noted that the organization now feels better equipped to evaluate new tools, develop policies, and train staff on evolving technology topics, including artificial intelligence. According to Beth, “The work with Apparo has strengthened our foundation and made us more able to handle major technology changes. We’re better prepared to evaluate new opportunities, create policies, and ensure we’re protecting our clients’ information.”
As RTGC continues to grow their impact throughout the Charlotte community, the organization is building on the strong technology foundation established through the G.A.I.N. program. With key roadmap recommendations now in place and staff more confident in navigating technology decisions, RTGC is well-positioned to continue serving neighbors in need while adapting to future opportunities and challenges.
