The Massachusetts Port Authority has answered the call from ZUMIX 's director Madeleine Steczynski, who needed technical assistance to upgrade the non-profit's computer network. Faced with an antiquated computer system that wouldn't keep pace with the organization's needs, Steczynski went looking for help. Massport responded by volunteering the services of its Information Services Department to evaluate and reconfigure ZUMIX'S s computer system at their Maverick Street offices.

"Massport is committed to being a helpful neighbor," said Craig P. Coy, Massport CEO. "By working together, we become better neighbors and appreciate each other's mission."

Since mid-July, Massport's informational services team of Jesus Cabello, David Lutkins and John Backstrom, spend a few hours a week at ZUMIX.
To date, Massport's specialists have built a new server, reconfigured the network to handle separate business and creative program file systems. They've built a more efficient system which will automatically create backup files, and created a routing system so each computer has access to the internet. In addition, John Backstrom is reconfiguring the desktop personal computers, wiping out viruses and clearing out program debris.

"We had to learn the system and about ZUMIX's needs," said Jesus Cabello, of Massport's Information Services Department. "Every business is different. Massport 's a multi-system network that connects the airport, seaport, bridge and other facilities, but we don't do music. Working with ZUMIX is a challenge."

Founded in 1991, ZUMIX's mission is to involve and empower racially and ethnically diverse, low-income, at-risk youth in the arts. ZUMIX offers music and related arts programs for young people to develop skills in writing, communication, music and technical training in audio and computer technologies. Youngsters in ZUMIX write music and perform their works at community events.

Over the years, ZUMIX had outgrown its computer system. The process for upgrading the system was technically challenging and potentially costly for ZUMIX.

"If our system crashed, we'd lose 11 years of files. To hire a consultant would cost thousands of dollars that we couldn't afford. I didn't know what new equipment we really needed," said Steczynski.

She asked four East Boston organizations large enough to have in-house informational services specialists for technical help.

"I still can't believe it, I feel like I won the lottery," said Steczynski. "Massport's help is setting a foundation to leverage additional funding. Thank you, Massport"

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