Denver Nonprofit Tackles Legacy Technology with Trusted MSP

Five years ago, the Denver branch of Girls Inc. was focused on its mission: empowering and supporting young women across the metro area. But when COVID-19 hit, their reliance on technology surged—bringing with it a harsh realization: their infrastructure was far behind the times.

“Before COVID, we knew we were dinosaurs when it came to technology,” said Mandi Pacheco, operations manager for Girls Inc. of Metro Denver.  But once COVID hit, we quickly realized how lacking we really were. We all worked on legacy PCs—often donated—and didn’t realize how bad things were until we truly needed them. We were handing out laptops that were 8 years old. When you have to do everything on your computer, it hits you.”

This scenario isn’t uncommon in the nonprofit sector. Many mission-driven organizations, constrained by limited budgets, delay critical IT investments. As long as systems work most of the time, upgrades often take a back seat to immediate program needs.

But eventually, as with Girls Inc., a tipping point arrives—and tech becomes a front-burner issue. For Girls Inc., the pandemic exposed systemic issues in their IT environment. Compounding the problem, their existing IT partner took a reactive approach and wasn’t providing the strategic guidance or support needed to navigate the crisis—or to prevent it from happening again.

A Change in Leadership Sparks Transformation

A newly appointed CEO, recognizing the importance of reliable technology, accelerated the much-needed shift. With support from a dedicated subcommittee of the board of directors, Girls Inc. Denver began crafting a long-overdue technology modernization plan.

This initiative led them to search for a proactive, strategic managed services provider who could offer guidance, stability, and a long-term roadmap. After interviews and due diligence, they selected SimpleFly Tech, a local Denver MSP.  Just a few months later, Girls Inc. learned that SimpleFly had merged with Exigent Technologies—a moment that, at first, raised questions.

“We interviewed quite a few options and landed on SimpleFly, in part because the owner was local,” explained Mandi. “Then, after Christmas break, suddenly we were with Exigent. There was definitely a ‘Wait—I just went through this!’ moment. But once we met the Exigent leadership team, we felt better. Bob Van Wyck has been our go-to from Day One, making sure everything is going smoothly. We’re working effectively and efficiently now—and that’s the goal. So, in the end, it all turned out fine.”

A Modern Technology Foundation to Support a Bold Mission

Girls Inc. Denver serves girls from first grade through college, delivering afterschool programs, summer camps, leadership training, and scholarship support. Behind all those initiatives is a team that now has the right tools and reliable support to stay focused on their mission—not their malfunctioning hardware.

“We’re not wasting a minute of our time with the girls because of tech issues,” said Mandi. “When things work well—and when we get fast support when they don’t—it makes a huge difference.”

With a foundational IT roadmap developed in partnership with knowledgeable board members, Girls Inc. had a solid start. Exigent then stepped in to validate the plan, assist with budgeting, and streamline implementation through The Exigent Method—our proven, consultative framework for delivering tailored technology services.

Building a Better Tech Future—Step by Step

Working alongside the Denver Girls Inc. team, Exigent has helped modernize hardware, network infrastructure, and cybersecurity measures, including:

  • Replacing outdated laptops and PCs
  • Upgrading switches and networking components
  • Ensuring secure and stable Wi-Fi
  • Planning and implementing a new phone system

“Having Exigent’s support—quick quotes, clear project plans, and a responsive team—makes it easier for our board to evaluate and approve the next steps,” said Mandi.

Strategic IT Partnership That Supports People First

For Mandi and the team, the most valuable aspect of the relationship is Exigent’s responsiveness and partnership mentality.

“We have a go-to person we talk to not just when there’s a problem, but when we have a question or need help. It’s easy. We don’t hesitate to open a ticket. Exigent works directly with our staff—I don’t have to be looped in.” That efficiency is priceless for a small nonprofit, where every minute counts.

“We’re not spending extra time troubleshooting projectors or worrying if a computer can play a video. And our girls have the technology they need to learn. No matter what they’re doing, having access to working tech is essential.

“While much of our mission isn’t directly about technology, tech supports all of our programs. When it works, we don’t waste the precious time we have with our girls.”

The Exigent Method at Work

  • Assurance Complete Managed Services ensure Girls Inc. of Metro Denver has access to top-tier helpdesk and IT support 24/7, after-hours, and onsite when needed, key to the flexible hours of the organization.
  • Microsoft 365 Backupify ensures business continuity and protection from disruption during busy sessions and programming.
  • Boundary Firewall protects the confidential and sensitive data associated with any nonprofit working with children.
  • New hardware, laptops to servers, and an optimized Wi-Fi network enable the reliable, accessible technology tools the nonprofit depends on.

Get Comprehensive IT Services for Your Nonprofit Organization

Experience the difference of having complete IT services for your nonprofit. Contact us today at (877)-EXIGENT (877) 394-4368 or fill out the form.

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