A Journey at the Salesforce Commons Community Sprint: Embracing Collaboration and Contribution

Walking towards the iconic Salesforce Tower in the brisk morning of Chicago alongside my fellow Navigators, I couldn’t fathom the experience awaiting me for the next two days. Standing in the lobby, thawing out from the chill, I couldn’t help but notice the diverse talent and experience filling the space. I was about to participate in the Commons Community Sprint.

I have never been a part of a Community Sprint. The Commons at Salesforce orchestrates these events to bring a volunteer community together, fostering connections, collaboration, strategic planning, and the creation of remarkable open-source solutions.  Recognize DLRS or the Summit Events App? These, among many others, are the products born from these community sprints.

I walked into this event with feelings of anxiety and imposter syndrome. It didn’t last long. Not because I suddenly transformed into a Salesforce expert, but due to the warmth of the community. We were greeted by the wonderful Salesforce employees who took time off their busy schedules to show us around and make us feel welcome at their workplace. Throughout the event we shared ideas, knowledge, personal and professional experiences… Everybody’s opinion or idea mattered. The inclusive atmosphere enveloped everyone, from those with years of experience to novices like myself attending their first Community Sprint. Everyone is invited to partake in this enriching experience.

Choosing a project to join was the hardest thing I did during the event. There were so many amazing projects and ideas where I felt I could contribute. Many participants did just that and offered their ideas and expertise to multiple projects. I joined a team dedicated to developing an app for enhancing nonprofit membership management. I wanted to build automations that could be reused by organizations for years to come. For two days I was surrounded by people with various levels of experience in the Salesforce ecosystem, and we all came together with a common goal of getting this app across the finish line. I constructed innovative elements, learned a lot, and, most fulfilling of all, had a hand in contributing to a product that will benefit our community in the future.

If you ever have the opportunity to be a part of a Community Sprint, don’t hesitate. This community has built a culture of helping one another and sharing knowledge. You will be a part of an inclusive environment that maintains a safe space for discussions, ensuring that all viewpoints are respected and heard without judgment. Come out and come together with an inspiring group of people; connect, collaborate, build cool stuff, and enjoy the camaraderie. I know I did, and cannot wait for the next one.