Cool Thing #6

I chose the site donorschoose.org
On this site, public school teachers, from anywhere in America, can request items needed for various class projects. Individuals can peruse the various requests and donate funds in any amount they wish, to whatever project they choose. Next, once a project gets full funding, the materials are delivered to the classroom. Then, all of the contributors, to that particular project, receive a cost report for the project, photos of the project in action, and a thank-you note from the teacher (give at least $100 and you'll get hand-written thank-you notes from the students). On some of the projects, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will fund 50% if one donor chooses to fund the rest. The requests that I viewed ranged from pocket folders to digital cameras.

This site also has a blog, an impact page,(where you can check key statistics), a store where you can purchase advertising products and great ideas on how to get the word out.

We all want our students (future leaders) to be able to learn and explore the greatness of Web 2.0 tools but, let's face it, there are a number of schools that are at a disadvantage. This Web 2.0 site is the "real deal"; it can help us make a difference. Now, it is not my intention to persuade poor graduate students to spend their grocery money to help purchase school supplies for others (even though it would be cool if we all gave something. . .even a dollar would help), but please check out this website and see if it resonates with you, OK?