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Tuesday Aug 22, 2006
How to convert virtual donations into hard cash
I just picked up a really interesting article in OnPhilanthropy about a fantastically innovative fundraising idea. A few of the larger charities in the USA have successfully tapped into the virtual world of Second Life, a virtual community created by Linden Labs that now has over 200,000 members.
In July, the American Cancer Society raised over $40,000 through a Second Life Relay for Life. Yes, that's right, virtual personas created by real people using Second Life took part in a virtual event, raising hard cash at the same time. The charity have also announced they are creating their own island on Second Life, including an interactive cancer information resource centre and a peer to peer support group venue.
This is a brilliant example of a charity engaging with a new audience – not only are they generating income, they are also spreading their message and offering information in a way that Second Lifers are very comfortable with.
So, who's up for creating a TheSite.org drop in centre on Second Life then?
Posted by Sam Thomas ( 12:48 PM ) Link to this post Comments[0]
