How ESA / LOVE Inc. helped 1000+ community members with a mobile app

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The Problem

ESA / Love Inc. is a non-profit organization in Fresno, California: a network of churches, other non-profits, businesses, and social services organizations that work together to connect individuals with essential resources (housing, job training, mental health support, food banks).

The organization faced a major roadblock: an outdated, inefficient system. Volunteers relied on paper intake forms stored in filing cabinets, and assistance was only available in person during business hours. This led to delays, missed opportunities, and an overall lack of streamlined coordination.

Recognizing the need for a digital solution, ESA’s executive director Rob Cravy envisioned an app that would allow individuals to access help anytime, anywhere—even from a grocery store parking lot.

However, traditional development was cost-prohibitive, with estimates quoted between $125,000-$150,000. That’s when ESA, through a referral from Diana’s returning client, Bizfission, turned to WE Actualize to create a no-code solution.

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The Solution

Softr expert Diana Kirby of WE Actualize designs strategic solutions that generate measurable ROI. In just under three months, she developed LOVE NET 559—a fully functional no-code platform that streamlined ESA’s entire process.

What started as a simple MVP quickly evolved into a comprehensive hub, enabling volunteers, service organizations, and community members to connect.

Key features include:

• Multi-user access: The app serves three primary groups—community members, organizations, and volunteers—each with customized access levels. A WeGlot integration ensures Spanish-speaking users can navigate the platform with ease.
• ‍Automated communication: Individuals seeking help can initiate contact by scanning a QR code or sending a text. Twilio and Airtable (via Softr & Make) trigger automated workflows, ensuring inquiries are processed efficiently.‍
• Seamless client onboarding: The entire intake process is automated, with inquiry forms built on Softr guiding individuals through the next steps to get support.‍
• An interactive resource map: A Google Maps API integration (via Make) displays a real-time directory of 180+ participating organizations across Fresno, making it easier for individuals to find nearby support and volunteers to quickly match which organizations are located closest to community members.‍
• A volunteer portal: Volunteers can log hours, track case notes, and coordinate with organizations in a single, intuitive dashboard.
  

“The application we built with Airtable, Softr, and Make created a clear runway between individuals in need and the resources that were ready to help them,” said Diana. “ESA was the bridge, and our app built that bridge where volunteers can log in and help connect people online and through text.”

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The Impact

LOVE NET 559 has fundamentally changed how ESA operates and delivers services:

• 1000+ individuals have been connected to vital resources through the platform.
• 180+ organizations now have a streamlined way to collaborate and extend their services to those in need.
• 100+ volunteers across multiple states can efficiently onboard, log case notes, and communicate directly with clients and partner organizations.

New capabilities, such as email/SMS marketing campaigns, lead management, mass messaging, and community event promotions, have further expanded ESA’s reach.

“When we conceptualize a project, rarely do we have the opportunity to see it transform perfectly into our expectation,” said Rob, ESA's executive director. “Diana was able to provide us the perfect combination of cost and functionality, all while surpassing our expectations for ease of use.”

LOVE NET 559 isn’t just an app — it’s a lifeline for the Fresno community and a model for nonprofits seeking innovative, cost-effective digital solutions.