In the News

• 04/23/2012 - SUSTAINABLE BRANDS: Ann Taylor and Loft Link Up With Good360's Donation Platform
  
  

  Ann Taylor and Loft Link Up With Good360's Donation Platform
  by Bart King
  
  April 23, 2012—Ann Inc. the parent company of Ann Taylor and Loft, announced a partnership with nonprofit Good360, that will facilitate the donation of reusable products to local charities that support women and children.
  
  With the launch of an internal system, called ANNCares360, the company’s stores will be able to enter leftover items from displays and other marketing efforts into a database system linked to Good360’s online product donation marketplace and its network of more than 26,000 charities.
  
  The partnership with Good360 offers a uniform company-wide system, better tracking mechanisms, and a wider reach for Ann Inc.'s donations.
  
  Good360, previously known as Gifts In Kind International, is a pioneer in the product giving space with recognition by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s top ten most efficient charities. In three decades of service, Good360 has distributed nearly $7 billion in product donations to thousands of organizations serving a wide spectrum of people in need. Good360 is developing the world’s largest online product donation marketplace, where product donations from America’s top brands and retailers become goods for the greater good.
  
  “The ANNCares360 program aligns perfectly with our environmental commitment to minimize waste in our operations since most of these items can be reused. We are pleased to know that we will be able to provide resources for communities in need,” said Jeannette Ferran Astorga, Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility.
  
  Hilton Worldwide set up a partnership with Good360 last year to automate the donation of items such as towels, blankets or office supplies that are recovered through renovation, or, simply reached the end of their commercial service life, but are still reusable.
  
  Bart King is a PR consultant and principal at Cleantech Communications.
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• 04/18/2012 - HUFF POST IMPACT: GOOD360 - An Idea Whose Time Has Come
  
  

  GOOD360 - An Idea Whose Time Has Come
  
  Carly Fiorina
  Board chair, Good360

  Since my tenure as HP's Chairman & CEO and my run for California's senate seat, I've felt compelled to involve myself in many worthy causes of all shapes and sizes. I serve on the advisory board of the Foundation for Health Coverage Education. I co-chair the US Leadership in Development initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies as well as serve on the leadership council of the Initiative for Global Development. I'm a founding supporter of the African Leadership Academy and a founder of the One Woman Initiative. I'm a cancer survivor acting as a Global Envoy for Lance Armstrong's LIVESTRONG organization. When I was approached by Good360's search committee about chairing its board of directors, it quickly became clear to me: this nonprofit's mission, inventive model and the sizable impact it was making globally was undoubtedly worth my time and consideration. Many people are unaware that Good360 is consistently ranked by Forbes as one of the top 10 most efficient charities in America. A lot of people might not know what being the nonprofit leader in product philanthropy even means. I quickly learned that it's all about facilitating new product donations, leveraged giving and a complete win-win for corporations and Good360's network of more than 26,000 pre-qualified nonprofits. A nonprofit helping other nonprofits to stretch their budgets and fulfill their missions by enabling corporations to increase their bottom line and social image by providing an alternative to disposing of or destroying excess inventory. Yes, Good360, formerly Gifts in Kind International, has been connecting those who have with those who need since 1983. As corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a must in today's business world, it shocked me that more companies haven't jumped on board to include product giving in their business strategies to reduce logistics and supply chain costs, work towards zero waste initiatives, reap an enhanced tax benefit and even engage employees. Good360 has been working with large corporations such as 3M, The Home Depot, Mattel, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Hallmark and IBM for years to manage their product giving programs, but why are some companies still sending perfectly usable excess inventory to a landfill or selling it for pennies on the dollar? In January of this year, Indiana University's School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) teamed up with Good360 to release research proving the business case for product giving. As the former leader of a Fortune 20 company, there's no question I see the benefits of product philanthropy. As an average American looking to support a worthy cause and making sure my dollar does the most good, Good360 is also a no-brainer. The organization's unique model of delivering donated products means that every dollar donated toward shipping costs can provide, on average, $70 worth of delivered product -- meaning every donation, no matter how big or small, makes an enormous difference in communities around the world. Through leveraged giving and Good360's extensive network of vetted nonprofits, you don't need to choose just one charity to support. Your dollars can help defray the cost of product delivery, serving every type of cause imaginable. Being highly involved in technology innovation for years, I'm excited to be joining Good360 as the organization prepares to introduce a cutting-edge upgrade to its online donation marketplace that will better serve the vast and exponentially increasing needs of its growing charitable network. As part of the platform, the new online donation marketplace will connect nonprofits, corporations and socially minded people to share stories and join together to improve their communities through product giving. In addition, the new technology will significantly streamline identification, delivery and distribution of valuable, needed product donations for nonprofits around the world. This is an idea whose time has come, and I am thrilled to announce my new position as chair of Good360's board of directors. I said yes to its mission, and I hope to influence many more to say yes to what Good360 is doing -- to continue to work with partners around the world to improve the lives of children, families, and communities and to restore and protect the planet -- and do it all through product giving.   Follow Carly Fiorina on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CarlyforCA Full article
• 04/18/2012 - CNBC SQUAWK BOX: Carly Fiorina on 'Good360'
  
  

  Carly Fiorina, former HP CEO, discusses her new position as chair of "Good 360", an online donation marketplace that connects corporate product donations with nonprofit organizations.

  http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=3000084889
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• 03/23/2012 - New Effort Aims To Create Omaha Jobs
  
  

  Good 360 Helps Companies Donate Products To Nonprofits

  www.ketv.com 8:42 am CDT March 23, 2012 OMAHA, Neb. -- A new effort in Omaha will bring jobs to the city and hope to millions of people in need across the United States. The effort is titled Good 360. It's a company that helps other companies donate products to nonprofits. Boxes of paintbrushes at a distribution center in northern Omaha will become part of a large brushstroke for good. "A 360-degree circle of good, good for businesses, good for the community, good for the environment, and most of all, good for the people in need," Good 360 President and Chief Executive Officer Cindy Hallberlin said. It was why Good 360 just settled in on North 16th Street just north of the Storz Expressway, Hallberlin said. The company contributes to more than 26,000 charities. "They're helping people in need and keeping companies that have overflow product from throwing it away. They're actually donating us their extra goods," Good 360 Operations Manager Kathleen Coartney said. The excess gets packaged up and sent out to organizations in need of the supplies, with charities only paying for the cost of shipping. "EBay connects those who have with people who want. We connect people who have with people in need," Hallberlin said. For Omaha, another need is fulfilled. "This part of the city is still at 18 to 22 percent unemployment. This is where we need to locate the industry and the warehousing -- five minutes away because the unemployed can get here," Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle said. Officials said it's a win-win situation with Omaha getting another coat of investment and job opportunity while Good 360 grabs a brush and prepares to paint its way to a brighter future. "This facility says we're going to do it every day, and we're going to do it all across the country, not just here in Omaha," Omaha Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer David Brown said. To see the catalog of items available and find out how to donate to the cause, visit www.Good360.com.
• 03/22/2012 - North Omaha Gets Global Sorting Center
  
  

  North Omaha Gets Global Sorting Center

  March 22, 2012
  By Cindy Gonzalez, World-Herald staff writer
  
  FULL ARTICLE
  
  
  Formed in 1983 to distribute $12 million in office equipment donated by 3M to eligible charities, today the international non-profit Good360 finds homes for some $350 million worth of corporate products, including some that otherwise would be tossed out.
  
  And now it is moving all of its distribution and sorting operations to north Omaha.
  
  A ribbon cutting ceremony is planned Thursday for the Good360 National Distribution and Sorting Center. What previously had been operations spread out in 12 cities across the U.S. and Canada will be combined in a central spot at 6200 N. 16th St.
  
  Good360 will use up to half the 260,000-square-foot warehouse that also is home to Cargo Zone, said Good360 chief operating officer Kevin Hagan. Terry McMullen, president of Cargo Zone, is providing the space at no cost, Hagan said.
  
  "The beautiful thing about Omaha," said Hagan, "you're right here in the center of everything — basically a two-day delivery to either coast."
  
  Consolidation, he said, should substantially cut down time and resources needed to support the company's network of 26,000 nonprofits that provide safety net programs across the country.
  
  Said David Brown, president of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce: "Our location at the transportation crossroads of North America continues to foster business growth and expansion."
  
  Two full-time jobs will be created, but Hagan said the sorting and distribution center also will enable Good360 to provide up to 50 training positions for participants of ResCare Workforce Services, a program funded by the State of Nebraska for public assistance recipients.
  
  The goal is that trainees, after six to nine months, will have gained enough experience in production, inventory management and forklift operations to land jobs.
  
  Gov. Dave Heineman said the state appreciated working with Alexandria, Va.-based Good360 and providing job training grants to help make its project a reality.
  
  Perhaps the greatest benefit to Omaha, Hagan said, is that local nonprofit agencies will have — in their back yard — a place to get nonperishable items for clients.
  
  Good360 accepts donated and excess materials such as clothes, toys, personal care products, office and school and building supplies from companies large and small. In some cases, items with flawed packaging are repackaged. then distributed to Good360's network of pre-screened agencies upon request.
  
  The nonprofit members pay only shipping costs. Thus, having one centralized location rather than 12 should save members money as well.
  
  Mayor Jim Suttle planned to help cut the ribbon, saying Omaha was fortunate to be chosen.
  
  
  Contact the writer:
  402-444-1224, cindy.gonzalez@owh.com
• 01/24/2012 - New Research Proves the Business Case for Product Giving
  
  

  Researchers at Indiana University Conclude that Giving Corporate Product Donations is Economically Superior to Liquidation or Disposal

  BLOOMINGTON, Ind., January 24, 2012 – New research from Indiana University concludes that businesses can do well by doing good through product philanthropy.  Donating products to charities helps corporate bottom lines, reduces waste in landfills, and provides relief for people in need. With a record number of Americans living in poverty today, product donations allow people to use their limited resources to pay for food, health care, prescription drugs, utilities and other vital needs. The study, released today by Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA), provides the first detailed examination of the return on investment for donating merchandise as opposed to liquidating or destroying it.  “This research demonstrates that donating products can result in substantial financial and social benefits for minimal cost and risk,” said Justin Ross, assistant professor of public finance and economics and the lead researcher for this study.  “Additionally, working with a nonprofit that can match companies with charities lowers corporate costs associated with product philanthropy.” Good360, a nonprofit that has worked in product giving for almost 30 years, approached the School of Public and Environmental Affairs last year do the study. As many retailers and other companies approach the end of their fiscal years on Jan. 31, the research provides new and timely information to help them make good decisions about their excess and slow-moving merchandise. Additional findings include: • Product giving presents a considerable financial advantage over cash donations because it can carry an enhanced tax deduction. • Product donations can provide the same image enhancement benefits as marketing and advertising programs and at a lower cost. • Companies that engage in product philanthropy avoid fees and negative branding implications associated with disposal of excess inventory. • Product donation is superior to liquidation in most circumstances, and the report provides a rule of thumb for companies wishing to make quick cost comparisons. In addition to providing an economic justification for retailers, manufacturers and distributors to donate excess merchandise, the report gives managers a framework for analyzing the costs, benefits, risks, and opportunities of implementing a product philanthropy program. “We hope that the report will inspire more companies to consider product donation as a viable alternative to liquidation or disposal,” said Cindy Hallberlin, president and CEO of Good360, the nation’s nonprofit leader in product philanthropy.  “For many there is an untapped strategic opportunity to use product giving to advance the business and have substantial social impact on the communities and causes about which they care deeply. Rarely is there such a win-win between business and social good.” For more information on the research collaboration and links to research findings, please visit: http://about.good360.org/productdonationresearch. For those interested in hearing more about this new research, SPEA and Good360 will host a webinar today at 2 p.m. to present key findings and answer questions. Space is limited. Please register at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/684724881.   About SPEA Indiana University’s SPEA (http://www.indiana.edu/~spea/) is a world leader in public and environmental affairs and is the largest school of public administration and public policy in the United States. In the 2009 "Best Graduate Schools" by U.S. News & World Report, SPEA ranks second and is the nation's highest-ranked professional graduate program in public affairs at a public institution. Six of its specialty programs are ranked in the top 10 listings. SPEA’s doctoral programs in public affairs and public policy are ranked by the National Academy of Science as the best in the country. About Good360 Good360 (http://about.good360.org), formerly Gifts In Kind International, is the world’s leading nonprofit in product philanthropy and is ranked as one of the top ten most efficient  charities by Forbes magazine. Working with many of the nation’s top retailers and brands, Good360 provides needed products to more than 23,000 qualified nonprofit organizations. Over the last 28 years, Good360 has delivered over $7 billion of donated products. From retail store donations in thousands of communities to employee product giving programs, Good360 continues to identify new ways to efficiently move resources to the communities that need help most.  In 2010, the IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs and Good360 worked together on research that analyzed the social and environmental impact of The Framing Hope Product Donation Program, a program that was created by The Home Depot and Good360. For more information: Steve Hinnefeld, Indiana University Communications Phone: (812) 856-3488 slhinnef@iu.edu Melissa Trumpower, Good360 Communications Phone: (703) 299-7547 mel@good360.org www.facebook.com/good360.org @Good360org
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  The Business Case for Product Giving
• 01/24/2012 - Fast Company: The Business Case For Corporate Philanthropy
  
  

  Fast Company: Research released today shows donation to be a better financial choice than either liquidation or landfill when it comes to unloading product that cannot be moved otherwise.

  Fast Company expert blogger Seth Kahan makes the case for product giving through Good360, "the world leader in product philanthropy". Read the full article.
• 01/24/2012 - CNBC: Courtney Reagan Highlights Opportunity for Companies to Benefit from Product Donation
  
  

  CNBC: Courtney Reagan Highlights Opportunity for Companies to Benefit from Product Donation:

  "There has been a new trend in inventory control. This year, retailers are turning to charities like Good360 to donate more merchandise than ever before. Home Depot, Mattel, 3M, Tempur-Pedic, and JCPenney are just some of the donors this year donating goods from windows to toys to mattresses to over 24,000 charities around the country. It's a win win for everyone involved." Listen to the entire story on YouTube, or download the audio file (mp3). Download a copy of Indiana University's research on the business case for product giving.
• 11/30/2011 - Good360 Ranked by Forbes as One of the Nation's Most Efficient Charities
  
  

  Good360 Ranked by Forbes as One of the Nation's Most Efficient Charities

  Financial efficiency is one of many ways to evaluate a charity. It’s based on the simple proposition that all other things being equal, a donor would rather that as much of a contribution as possible go to the stated charitable mission of the nonprofit rather than be spent in soliciting the donation or in overhead. Read the full article
• 11/22/2011 - More Than 22,000 Organizations Can Benefit Globally Leveraging LightStay
  
  

  Hilton Worldwide Partners with Good360 to Donate Reusable Goods to Charitable Organizations

  MCLEAN, Va. - Hilton Worldwide today announced a partnership with Good360 to connect hotels donating high-quality used goods to charitable organizations that can repurpose and serve needs within their communities. By utilizing LightStay, Hilton Worldwide's proprietary sustainability performance management platform, all of the more than 3,750 Hilton Worldwide hotels globally will be able to enter goods available for donation into a tracking system that will link to Good360's online product donation marketplace and its more than 22,000 charities that can claim items as needed. Additionally, Hilton Worldwide's group meeting clients can track donations entered by Hilton Worldwide-branded properties in the event a donation opportunity is available through LightStay's Meeting Calculator. "Our partnership with Good360 is the critical link we've been looking for," said Jennifer Silberman, vice president, corporate responsibility for Hilton Worldwide. "Many of our hotels have been donating for some time, and we are excited to watch how this partnership will enable more donations by connecting hotels with a greater number of organizations to support communities in need and providing resources to facilitate their donations." Routinely, properties have items such as towels, blankets or office supplies that are recovered through renovation and events, or, simply reached the end of their commercial service life, but are still reusable. Before now, it has been difficult for hotels to execute relationships with existing charitable partners on a consistent basis due to time, resource or legal constraints. In 2010, over 1,300 Hilton Worldwide properties donated physical goods to charitable and community organizations. This figure will continue to increase in coming years as hotels utilize the Good360 partnership and manage donations more efficiently using LightStay. Good360, previously known as Gifts In Kind International, is a pioneer in the product giving space with recognition by Forbes Magazine as one of America's most efficient charities. In three decades of service, Good360 has distributed nearly $7 billion in product donations to thousands of organizations serving a wide spectrum of people in need. Good360 is developing the world's largest online product donation marketplace, where product donations from America's top brands and retailers become goods for the greater good. "Thanks to donors like Hilton Worldwide, Good360 is able to get essential products into the hands of those who need them most," said Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and president of Good360. "When nonprofits receive product donations, they are able to stretch their budget further and focus more time on their mission." This is the latest in Hilton Worldwide's commitment to repurpose used goods for community needs. Earlier this month, Hilton Worldwide announced a partnership with the Global Soap Project to recycle soap across its more than 3,750 hotels globally and leverage its global supply chain and expertise to assist with the influx of soap the nonprofit will receive. The company also will invest $1.3 million over three years to expand its infrastructure. Hilton Worldwide is the first major multi-brand hospitality company to make sustainability measurement a brand standard and recently earned ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications for quality and environmental management - one of the largest volume certifications awarded for commercial buildings. As part of that standard, Hilton Worldwide-branded properties commit to continuous improvements to their overall sustainability results each year. In 2010 alone, the company saved more than $74 million in utility costs through a 6.6 percent reduction of energy use; 7.8 percent reduction of carbon output; 19 percent reduction of waste output; and 3.8 percent reduction of water use. Hilton Worldwide's global giving is currently focused on creating vibrant and sustainable communities wherever we operate. Hilton Worldwide was awarded the Global Vision Award by Travel & Leisure and the Extra Mile Award by Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel magazines. Most recently, the company was recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Green Power Partnership as one of the top 10 purchasers of green power.  Contact: Dasha Ross Hilton Worldwide + 1 (703) 883-5805 dasha.ross@hilton.com www.hiltonworldwide.com/media About Hilton Worldwide Hilton Worldwide is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For 93 years, Hilton Worldwide has been offering business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. The company is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Its brands are comprised of more than 3,750 hotels and timeshare properties, with 615,000 rooms in 85 countries and include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages the world-class guest reward program Hilton HHonors®. For more information about the company, visit www.hiltonworldwide.com or connect with Hilton Worldwide at www.hiltonworldwide.com/media.
• 11/10/2011 - Housewarming and Toolkits Donated to Nonprofits Serving Veterans
  
  

  The Home Depot Foundation, National League of Cities, and Good360 Partner to Distribute 500 Housewarming and Tool Kits to Nonprofits Serving Military Veterans

  Good360 distributed donations of 75 housewarming kits—five-gallon buckets filled with product donations from The Home Depot Foundation including free household items such as towels, cleaning supplies, and trash bags—to U.S. VETS-Phoenix for its newly completed affordable housing project. The Home Depot products were donated by The Home Depot Foundation (THDF) and then sorted into 500 kits—250 housewarming kits and 250 toolkits—by attendees at the National League of Cities (NLC) 2011 Congress of Cities & Exposition. The remaining 425 housewarming and tool kits will be distributed to nonprofits serving military veterans across the nation. The toolkits will be packed in a tool box and will include hammers, box knives, pliers, wrenches, picture hanging kits, gloves and many other items needed on a day-to-day basis. “This is the second year the National League of Cities has partnered with Good360 to give our attendees a worthwhile service project that ultimately connects them with the community where we hold our conference each year. City officials from all over the nation helped sort and kit the free household and toolkit product donations for U.S. VETS-Phoenix and the many other nonprofits serving veterans in the United States,” said James E. Mitchell Jr., NLC President and Councilmember Charlotte, NC. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the latest studies show that more than 75,000 Veterans are homeless on a typical night and about 135,000 spend at least one night a year in a homeless shelter. In fact, military veterans make up 8% of the U.S. population, but almost 16% of homeless adults. In an effort to eliminate homelessness among veterans by 2015, the VA recently announced a plan to transform its efforts in the fight against homelessness from a focus of temporary, shelter-based services, to a focus on prevention, employment, and permanent housing. The housewarming and tool kits include product donations of essential home items which will help veterans maintain their new homes. “Good360’s goal is to provide thousands of nonprofits who help military families, veterans and active members with free product donations. We are thankful to have the support not only of THDF, but also the NLC and the attendees at the 2011 Congress of Cities, who made this service project and free product donations possible,” said Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and President of Good360. The Home Depot Foundation’s participation stems from a longstanding commitment to the military and veteran communities. Earlier this year, THDF pledged a three-year, $30 million initiative to address veterans’ critical housing needs. The Foundation’s financial commitment will be amplified by associates from The Home Depot, who will also volunteer their time and home improvement know-how skills to projects across the country. “We are excited to support Good360 and their mission to provide nonprofits with essential product donations,” said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. “This service project complements our pledge to help address veterans’ critical housing needs by giving veterans the day-to-day household items and tools that a family will need to maintain their new home.” U.S. VETS, the nation’s largest nonprofit provider of services to veterans, is dedicated to successfully transitioning military veterans and their families through the provision of housing, counseling, career development and comprehensive support. The Phoenix location recently completed 3400 Grand Ave., a new affordable housing project which will house 134 military veterans and their families. “The kits provided by Good360 will provide U.S.VETS with an opportunity to give our newest veterans a gift they can use the minute they come to our facility and to show them that we care,” said U.S.VETS- Phoenix, State Director, Hank Doss. “This is another great step in eliminating homelessness in Maricopa County where there are 1,200 veterans who are homeless on any given day.” ### About Good360 Good360 (about.good360.org) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of nonprofits by distributing corporate product donations around the world. The organization works with the nation’s top retailers and brands to provide needed products to more than 22,000 qualified nonprofit organizations. This year, Good360 will launch the latest version of its new, innovative online donation marketplace that helps to aggregate the product needs of nonprofits and provides timely information about how product donations are used for the greater good. Good360, formerly Gifts In Kind International, is ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America. About National League of Cities The National League of Cities (www.nlc.org) is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans. About The Home Depot Foundation The Home Depot Foundation is committed to ensuring that every U.S. military veteran has a safe place to call home. In April 2011, the Foundation pledged a three-year, $30 million initiative to address veterans’ critical housing needs. Since its formation in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $270 million to nonprofit organizations improving homes and lives in local communities. To learn more and see The Home Depot’s associates in action, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org or follow on Twitter @homedepotfdn, and like on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation. About the United States Veterans Initiative Founded in 1992, U.S.VETS is dedicated to the successful transition of military veterans and their families through the provision of housing, counseling, career development, and comprehensive support. With 12 locations in six states and Washington, D.C., U.S.VETS is the largest veteran-specific nonprofit housing and service provider in the country. Focused on assisting homeless and at-risk veteran and veteran families, U.S. VETS serves over 2,000 veterans each day. In a year, U.S.VETS will help 3,000 veterans find housing and over 1,000 veterans obtain full-time employment. To learn more, visit www.usvetsinc.org or follow on Twitter @USVETSINC, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/usvetsinc. For more information, please contact: Kara Kozimor Senior Director of Communications, Good360 Phone: (703) 299-7575 kara@good360.org Gregory Minchak National League of Cities minchak@nlc.org (202) 626-3003 Catherine Woodling Public Relations and Communications Specialist, Home Depot Foundation Catherine_Woodling@HomeDepot.com (770)-384-2304 Chelsea Cody Communications Coordinator, United States Veterans Initiative ccody@usvetsinc.org (213)-542-2601
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  Good360 staff setting up (from left to right) Colleen Clark, Emily Coccia, and Amanda Folk
• 10/21/2011 - Discovery Communications Announces Nonprofit Partners for Second Annual
  
  

  Discovery Communications Employees to donate creative services to Good360 at 12-hour marathon event supporting nonprofit missions

  Silver Spring, Md. – Discovery Communications today announced the nonprofit organizations selected to take part in the company’s annual pro bono initiative, Discovery Impact: Creating Change. During this 12-hour creative marathon, employees will lend their talents in marketing, communications, creative design services, social media and video production to help the organizations with their promotional goals. The second annual Creating Change marathon will be held at Discovery’s global headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland on November 9. Discovery has selected 24 non-profit partners to receive design and communications services this year. The organizations serve a number of community needs, including helping the homeless, working with disabled veterans, preventing domestic violence and promoting literacy. In order to address the needs of all the organizations who applied, Discovery has created a series of workshops and roundtables covering a multitude of topics including Social Media and Press Strategy to be held during the event on November 9. All organizations that applied to Discovery Impact: Creating Change will be invited to attend these workshops. “Discovery’s greatest assets are our talented, creative employees and Creating Change allows us to harness the passion and skills of our workforce to help nonprofit organizations with their marketing and communications needs,” said David Leavy, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Global Communications. “We are humbled by each of the organizations that applied to Creating Change and the extraordinary work they do to make our world a better place.” Additionally, key Discovery partner Thinkstock (www.thinkstock.com) an image subscription site from Getty Images, will donate imagery from their library for use in print and online campaigns for the nonprofits, and Killer Tracks (www.killertracks.com), will provide use of their music library for PSAs and videos. Creating Change is one of several Discovery Impact initiatives that leverage the power of Discovery's brands, businesses and employees to make a direct impact on the communities in which we live and work. Discovery Impact enables employees to honor the company’s founder, John Hendricks’ original vision to make a difference by giving back to the source of Discovery’s greatest stories and most stunning images, our world. Other Discovery Impact initiatives include Discover Your Impact Day, an annual day of global employee volunteerism, Discover Your Skills, a campaign to provide critical resources for obtaining job skills to the unemployed and underemployed, and a comprehensive disaster relief program. Most recently, Discovery launched Rebuilding Alabama, a partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham where 125 Discovery employees from across the US worked together with on-air talent to rebuild five homes affected by the devastating tornados last spring. Please find below the complete list of the nonprofit partners who will be participating in Discovery Impact: Creating Change. To learn more about these organizations, please view: http://blog.discoverycommunications.com in the upcoming weeks. Achieving the Dream Good360 Northern Virginia Family Service Basic Animal Rescue Training (BART) Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, MD Inc. One Warm Coat Colorbars Network, Inc. Hero Dogs, Inc. Real Medicine Foundation Community Bridges League of Women Voters Shenandoah National Park Trust Computer C.O.R.E. Literacy Council of Prince George’s County ThanksUSA DC Diaper Bank Lydia’s House in Southeast The Shepherd’s Table Global Zero Men Can Stop Rape VolunteerMatch GlobalGiving Foundation National Network to End Domestic Violence Wider Opportunities for Women About Discovery Impact Through its Discovery Impact programs, Discovery Communications (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) leverages the power of its brands, businesses and employees to give back to the world. From programming that inspires and educates to annual events that make a direct impact on the communities in which we live and work, Discovery strives to celebrate, support and sustain the majesty of the earth's people, animals and natural beauty. For more information about how Discovery is making an impact, please visit: http://impact.discovery.com. About Discovery Communications Discovery Communications (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) is the world's #1 nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in 210 countries and territories. Discovery is dedicated to satisfying curiosity through 139 worldwide television networks, led by Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Science and Investigation Discovery, as well as US joint venture networks OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, The Hub and 3net, the first 24-hour 3D network. Discovery also is a leading provider of educational products and services to schools and owns and operates a diversified portfolio of digital media services, including HowStuffWorks.com. For more information, please visit www.discoverycommunications.com. CONTACT: Tammy Shea, Tammy_Shea@discovery.com 240-662-6506
• 09/22/2011 - Product Philanthropy, Measurable Value for the Bottom Line
  
  

  Good360 Summit to Discuss Business Benefits of Product Giving
  
  With the overall poverty rate climbing from 14.3 percent to 15.1 percent just in one short year, even more Americans are financially suffering—to be exact—1 out of every 6 Americans now live in poverty. Our neighbors, their children, the homeless veterans on the street, the under and unemployed are all struggling to survive and get the items they need for everyday life—clothing, personal hygiene products, or school supplies for their kids.
   
  Good360, the thought leader in product philanthropy, is hosting a two-day product philanthropy summit in Monterey, Cali. to discuss the impact businesses can not only have on the millions of people-in-need, but also the benefits their company can receive through product giving. The summit will make the business case on why companies should be donating products, how they can align donations to their philanthropic and corporate goals, and show companies how product giving can create a more efficient supply chain.

  To support the discussion, a case study was recently completed by Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs on Good360’s Framing Hope program with The Home Depot. Since Framing Hope’s inception in 2008, more than $100 million in products have been donated to 1,500 local nonprofits reaching nearly 500,000 low-income families. Results include: •    Social Impact: Almost 500,000 low income families reached. •    Economic Impact: More than $1.4 million in energy costs saved. •    Environmental Impact: Diversion of landfill space equivalent to approximately 2,500 garbage trucks, manufacturing energy savings enough to power 119 homes for one year, and annual consumption energy savings totaling more than 3.3 million kWh reducing CO2 emissions equivalent to planting 517 acres of pine forest. At the summit, Good360 will also be reviewing the findings of new groundbreaking research from Indiana University on the business case for product giving. The report, which will be revealed in the next several weeks explores product philanthropy further and identifies the benefits, costs, and risks of participating in product donation—from the perspective of cost, brand enhancement and awareness, and employee engagement. One book a child owns can alter their future, one toothbrush can keep a single mother stay healthy, and one bed can ensure restful sleep to a veteran who came back from serving overseas but now has nowhere to call home. To learn more about how your company can impact the greater good, please register for the Good360 Corporate Summit on Product Philanthropy.
• 08/24/2011 - Good360, Indiana University Collaborate to Measure Corporate “Product Philanthropy”
  
  

  Good360, Indiana University Collaborate to Measure Corporate “Product Philanthropy”

  BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs and Good360, formerly Gifts In Kind International, have completed the first year of a unique, ongoing collaboration designed to measure the impacts of corporate gifts-in-kind to nonprofit organizations.
  
  

  The collaborators have focused on evaluating the effects on community nonprofits of Framing Hope, a partnership between Good360 and The Home Depot Foundation in which unsold merchandise from Home Depot stores is donated to participating nonprofit organizations. More information and preliminary research results may be seen at http://www.indiana.edu/~spea/research/interdisciplinary_research/index.shtml.
  
  

  The collaboration to develop reliable metrics began as an effort to help Good360 better understand and communicate the financial and social impacts of corporate product donations, both to recipients and to current and potential corporate donors. The initial idea quickly generated widespread interest among School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) faculty members, not only from the public policy and nonprofit management disciplines, but also from environmental science.
  
  

  “Once we began talking,” says IU professor Lisa Blomgren Bingham, who holds the Keller-Runden Chair in Public Service in SPEA, “it became apparent that there would be multiple ways to look at the impacts— the organizational effects on the nonprofits receiving and managing donations, the social effects on the end-users of the products, and the effects on environmental sustainability. It is exactly the kind of complex research project that is custom-made for the School of Public and Environmental Affairs.” 

  “The research is invaluable to Good360 and other in-kind giving programs because it will help us to better explain the leveraged value of product giving,” added Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and President of Good360. “We are excited to continue with the research after completing the study on the Framing Hope program and unveil even more groundbreaking findings to our corporate partners at our product giving summit this fall (http://summit.good360.org).”
  
  

  The early research is promising. SPEA environmental science professor Diane Henshel’s “capstone” class of students completing master’s degrees quantitatively estimated how product donations contribute locally both to energy savings and to reduction in landfill use. SPEA faculty members Evan Ringquist and Justin Ross hope to expand on this “green philanthropy” research, and have additional grant applications in process.
  
  

  In terms of organizational impact of product philanthropy, nonprofit management professor Beth Gazley conducted a national survey of nearly 800 charities that had partnered with The Home Depot Foundation through Good360’s Framing Hope program, to determine how product donations affected their ability to carry out their missions. Further research on disadvantaged populations as the end-users of these donations by SPEA social policy professor Kristin Seefeldt is also in the works. The entire multi-disciplinary project is assisted by SPEA doctoral students Gordon Abner and Oral Saulters. 
  
  

  For more information on the research collaboration and links to research findings, visit http://about.good360.org/AboutUs/Product_Giving_Research.
  
  

  About SPEA
  The IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs (http://www.spea.indiana.edu) is a world leader in public affairs and the environmental sciences and is the largest school of public affairs in the United States. In the most recent "Best Graduate Schools" by U.S. News & World Report, SPEA ranks second and is the nation's highest-ranked graduate program in public affairs at a public institution. Six of its specialty programs are ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News.
• 07/28/2011 - Good360 to Bring Companies Together to Discuss Product Philanthropy This Fall in Monterey, Calif.
  
  

  Groundbreaking Research on Business Benefits of Donating Products to Be Released During Event

  Good360 (formerly Gifts In Kind International), the nation’s leader and expert in product giving, will bring together some of the nation’s top brands at a summit this fall to discuss the future of product philanthropy (summit.good360.org). The Corporate Summit on Product Philanthropy, to be held in Monterey, Calif. November 10–11 will highlight best practices in product giving and provide real-life examples of how doing good results in doing well. “We look forward to bringing together some of the nation’s most innovative and generous companies to discuss the future of product giving and to spotlight product giving programs that have had a significant impact in communities across the country,” said Cindy Hallberlin, President and CEO of Good360. “This meeting will be a great opportunity for companies to learn from the sessions and their peers about innovations in product philanthropy.” New Study Will Highlight Product Giving Business Benefits Attendees of the Summit will be the first to hear groundbreaking research by economists at Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA - Bloomington) on the business case for product giving. With the generous support from The Home Depot Foundation, Good360 and SPEA partnered to develop reliable metrics to better understand and communicate the financial and social impacts of corporate product donations. The study includes a cost-comparison between liquidation, salvaging, and donating inventory and an analysis of the relationship between product giving, employee engagement, and a company’s brand. “Through our partnership with Good360, The Home Depot Foundation has been able to transform our product donation process in a way that engages and inspires our associates while providing tremendous value to local nonprofit organizations,” said Fred Wacker, director and COO of The Home Depot Foundation. “We are thrilled to participate in The Corporate Summit on Product Philanthropy to learn even more best practices to apply to our program.” Good360’s Corporate Summit on Product Philanthropy will also provide a great opportunity for company representatives to network with an elite group of colleagues from companies large and small. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn best practices, network, and share ideas with companies that have designed and implemented strategic product giving programs. Roy Spence, co-founder and chairman of GSD&M and author of It’s Not What You Sell, It’s What You Stand For, will be one of the keynote speakers for the event. He will discuss building an organization that truly makes a difference in the marketplace, becoming a leader of great purpose, and bringing your company’s purpose to life so that your consumers know exactly what it stands for. For more information and to register for the Corporate Summit of Product Philanthropy, please visit summit.good360.org About Good360 (formerly Gifts in Kind International) Good360 (about.good360.org) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of nonprofits by distributing corporate product donations around the world. The organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies to provide needed products to more than 18,000 qualified nonprofit organizations. This year, Good360 will launch the latest version of its new, innovative online marketplace that helps to aggregate the product needs of nonprofits and provides timely information about how product donations are used for the greater good. Good360, formerly Gifts In Kind International, is ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America.
• 06/28/2011 - Good360 hosts Changing Diapers, Changing Lives Diaper Drive
  
  

  WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA)-- Angie Goff (@ohmygoff) reports local charity Good360 gave out 4,000 free diapers to families in need.

  On average diapers cost parents $70 a month. There are families that simply can't afford it. It's why non-profit group Good360 recently held diaper drives for those in need. The group handed out thousands of Seventh Generation diapers at The Carpenter Shelter in Alexandria and The Family Place in DC. The campaign called Changing Diapers, Changing lives raises money through $5 text message donations. They also hold diaper drives in the community. You can make a $5 donation by texting BABY to 52000. Check out Good360.org for more info. See the video here: http://wusa9.com/news/article/156532/374/4000-Free-Diapers-Given-Out-in-DC
• 06/14/2011 - Good360’s Changing Diapers, Changing Lives Campaign to Distribute Two Pallets of Diaper Donations to D.C.-area Families in Need
  
  

  Communities and individuals are encouraged to participate and donate diapers and baby wipes on Thursday, June 23 to Carpenter’s Shelter in Alexandria and The Family Place in Washington.

  ALEXANDRIA, VA., June 14, 2011 – Good360, formerly Gifts In Kind International, announced today that it will distribute almost 4,000 free diapers to Carpenter’s Shelter in Alexandria, Va. and The Family Place in Washington, D.C. in honor of Father’s Day this Sunday. The diapers were funded through Good360’s cause campaign, Changing Diapers, Changing Lives, which aims to distribute free Seventh Generation diapers for babies-in-need through $5 text donations. The campaign was developed after Good360’s nonprofit network expressed an overwhelming need for diapers. Individuals in the Alexandria and DC metro area are invited to contribute to the cause and stop by either location on June 23 between the hours of 11:30 am to 4:00 pm to drop off diapers and baby wipes. “The costs of caring for a baby are high. In fact, diapers alone can cost as much as $50 - $80 a month, and there are no government aid programs (WIC, Food Stamps, Medicare) to help low-income families get diapers,” said Cindy Hallberlin, President and CEO of Good360. “With inflation cost increases hitting the diaper market this summer, it is more important than ever to support the low-income families in our community. We are excited that our campaign could generate these first few pallets of free diapers and hope that we will continue to gain even more support to distribute diaper donations to our nonprofit network.” If you can’t make it to either of the locations below, please visit www.facebook.com/good360.org to learn more about the campaign and help us spread the word, or text BABY to 52000 and give a one-time donation of $5. Diaper Drive Locations and Recipients: Carpenter’s Shelter 930 N. Henry Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 Diaper drop-off hours: 11:30 am to 4:00 pm Carpenter’s Shelter (www.carpentersshelter.org) is a nonprofit organization that works to end homelessness through services, education, and advocacy. Carpenter’s Shelter programs include aftercare and educational workshops as well as winter shelters and transitional services. In addition, the shelter provides basic needs to new parents such as diapers and baby wipes. Carpenter's Shelter depends solely on community members to provide these types of donations. “It is essential that our clients, especially our youngest clients, grow up with a sense of security and that all of their needs are met,” said Lissette Bishins, Executive Director of Carpenter’s Shelter. “We are excited to receive so many diapers as we have many babies who come through Carpenter’s Shelter each year. These donations will immensely help those who have so very little.” The Family Place 3309 16th St., NW, Washington, DC 20010 Diaper drop-off hours: 11:30 am to 4:00 pm The Family Place (TFP), www.thefamilyplacedc.org, was founded in 1980 in Washington D.C. and serves low-income families in the District to foster the optimal development of their young children through educational and support services. Along with their educational program, TFP has wellness and stability programs including pre-natal and infant classes and offers emergency food, clothing, and diapers to any family who comes through their doors. “Diapers play a vital role in bringing up healthy babies and we hope individuals in the Alexandria and DC metro area will participate in this cause and bring much-needed diapers so that we can distribute them to families in our community who so desperately need them,” said Haley Wiggins, Executive Director of The Family Place. About Good360 Good360 (www.good360.org) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of nonprofits by distributing corporate product donations around the world. The organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies to provide needed products to more than 16,000 qualified nonprofit organizations. This summer, Good360 will launch the latest version of its new, innovative online marketplace that helps to aggregate the product needs of nonprofits and provides timely information about how product donations are used for the greater good. Good360, formerly Gifts In Kind International, is ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America. About Seventh Generation Seventh Generation (www.seventhgeneration.com) is committed to being the most trusted brand of household and personal-care products for the home. Their products are healthy solutions for the air, surfaces, fabrics, pets and people within a home -- and for the community and environment outside of it. Seventh Generation also offers baby products that are safe for children and the planet. The company derives its name from the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy that states, "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations." Every time you use a Seventh Generation product you are making a difference by saving natural resources, reducing pollution, and making the world a better place for this and the next seven generations. Contact Information Kara Kozimor, Senior Director of Communications, Good360 Phone: (703) 299-7575 kara@good360.org
• 06/02/2011 - United Way Donates Mattresses to Westchester Families in Need
  
  

  The United Way and Furniture Sharehouse donated over 100 mattresses on Thursday to families throughout Westchester County.

  By Brian Marschhauser With the help of the United Way and Furniture Sharehouse, Westchester families in need will experience a dream only made possible by a good night’s sleep on their new mattresses. The two organizations teamed up to provide 106 mattresses to dozens of families living in White Plains and throughout Westchester County. “We're just amazed and loving it right now,” said Deshawn Manning. Deshawn and his wife Cassandra, one of the families receiving the mattresses, appeared at Furniture Sharehouse’s warehouse stationed at the Westchester County Airport on Thursday. The shipment of mattresses came at the perfect time for the Yonkers couple and their four boys who were in desperate need of furniture. “They've been asking every day 'When is it coming? When is it coming?' To them it's like Christmas,” said Cassandra. The boys, aged 13, 10, 6 and 4, had previously been bunking with one another and had been experiencing back pain due to their old, worn out mattresses. “They're sleeping on their mattresses, but their mattresses are so worn and they really have to be thrown out,” said Deshawn. “The springs are starting to come out, the stuffing's starting to come out, so to have these mattresses come in is going to be tremendous for the kids… For them it's going to mean the world. It's really going to change their lives.” Cassandra believes the mattresses will do more than just alleviate their back pain. The mother of four is equally excited to see the smiles on their faces that the new mattresses will bring. “The pride that they'll have is unbelievable.” The sole contributor of mattresses to this cause was Tempur-Pedic. Due to possible bed bug infestations, only foam mattress donations were accepted. “These types of mattresses are foam,” said Naomi Adler, United Way’s chief executive officer. “Therefore they can be used in all types of places in which bed bugs have been a problem. Bed bugs won't infiltrate these types of mattresses.” The donation was made possible by the United Way’s Gift-in-Kind program, which assists companies and individuals who would like to donate products and goods to nonprofit organizations. Furniture Sharehouse is one of the nonprofit organizations working with the United Way. The organization collects “gently-used” furniture and redistributes it free of charge throughout Westchester County to families in need. The families are referred by social service agencies. “Our single biggest client need is beds, and we never have enough,” said Kate Bialo, executive director of Furniture Sharehouse. “This wonderful donation… will make a huge difference in the lives of dozens of families who would otherwise be sleeping on the floor.” Read full article
• 05/17/2011 - Family Refuge Center Gets Major Donation
  
  

  The American Trucking Association, a nonprofit known as Good 360, and a local politician joined forces to bring attention to a need in southern West Virginia.

  By Lauren Weppler Three forces came together to lighten the load off the back of a private non-profit organization, the Family Refuge Center, who's mission is to eliminate physical, sexual and emotional violence in Greenbrier, Pocahontas, and Monroe counties.  West Virginia Congressman Nick Rahall suggested the center to the American Trucking Association and Good 360. "Its heart warming to see such compassion and emotional support delivered by a large sector of our economy the trucking industry,” said Rahall. Read the article
• 05/16/2011 - National nonprofit’s ‘logistics hell’ challenges 3PL firm
  
  

  Kevin Hagan laughs — at least sort of — when he describes Good360. “This,” says the chief administrative officer of the nonprofit headquartered at Alexandria, Va., “is logistics hell.”

  Bender Group, a third-party logistics company based in Reno, plays a big role in making sure that the logistics hell turns into something that approaches distribution heaven. Good360 accepts donations of new products from manufacturers and retailers, then ships them to participating charities that place orders through an online catalog. For Bender, which warehouses the donations and prepares shipments to nonprofits, the Good360 account brings unknowns: Unknown merchandise of an unknown size and configuration, arriving on an unknown schedule, taking an unknown amount of floor space and sticking around the warehouse for an unknown amount of time. “They have to be willing to work in an uncertain world,” Hagan says of the distribution companies that contract with Good360. “Bender Group has really gone out of its way to work with us. They do a phenomenal job.” Bender’s distribution facilities in north Reno handle shipments to participating nonprofits on the West Coast, along with all donations and order-fulfillment of toys and personal care items for the entire country. A second Bender facility at Winchester, Va., handles even larger volumes of donations for Good360, says Jared Lindwall, business development manager for the 3PL company. The biggest challenge, Lindwall says, typically comes when the donated items arrive at Bender’s warehouses. Because manufacturers generally want only to be rid of the items they’re donating, shipments aren’t nearly as well organized as they would be if they were headed for a retailer or other paying customer. “It can be a hodgepodge of products that’s been shipped in a hodgepodge of configurations,” Lindwall says. “This is definitely different. It’s almost like a returned merchandise process.” But once Bender employees get the product straightened out and get data entered into warehouse-management systems, Lindwall says the Good360 merchandise moves like any other through the sprawling Bender 3PL operation. Unpredictability isn’t a major issue, Lindwall says. While Good360 used as little as 3,000 square feet of space in the Reno warehouse at times last year, and used as much as 6,000 square feet at others, that’s a small blip on the screen in the 500,000 square feet the company operates in Reno. “It’s pretty easy for us to flex up and down,” he says. And although the hodgepodge shipments challenge Bender staff, a saving grace is that their arrival is fairly rare — 49 shipments of Good360 merchandise arrived at the Reno facility last year. At the Bender facility in Virginia, however, more than 200 shipments — an average of nearly four a week — arrive from Good360 donors. Hagan, who oversees the Good360 operations, says the organization prizes efficiency in distribution operations. Its overhead amounts to less than 1.8 percent of the value of the goods that are donated, and Good360 has been identified by Forbes magazine as one of the 10 best-managed nonprofits in the country. Distribution efficiency is all the more important, he says, because Good360 bills its distribution costs back to participating charities, and low costs allows them to serve more people in need. Northern Nevada Business Weekly John Seelmeyer, 5/16/2011 Go to article
• 04/26/2011 - Donate My Card™ Adds Good360™ as National Partner Charity for its Digital Donation Solution
  
  

  Small, unused balances on prepaid gift and debit cards can provide billions of dollars in resources for great causes.

  Los Angeles, April 25, 2011 — Donate My Card™ announced today that Good360™ (www.good360.org), the world's leading nonprofit in product giving and one of the largest nonprofits in the United States, has joined Donate My Card as a participating partner charity, offering them a new opportunity to raise funds, increase awareness of their mission, and grow their donor base. With an estimated $5-10 billion ending up unused on the $100+ billion of gift and prepaid debit cards sold each year in the United States according to industry studies, holders of gift cards, rebate cards and pre-paid debit cards can now easily, safely and securely donate those balances without spending additional dollars through Donate My Card’s website (http://donatemycard.com). Donate My Card currently accepts any "open-loop" cards, those issued by VISA®, MasterCard®, Discover®, and American Express® and anticipates being able to accept “closed-loop” retail gift cards later this year. “The partnership with Donate My Card will be extremely valuable to Good360 and help our organization raise money to better serve our nonprofit network,” said Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and president of Good360. Over the past 28 years, Good360 (formerly Gifts In Kind International) has distributed corporate product donations valued at more than $7 billion to thousands of recipient organizations serving a wide spectrum of people in need. People interested in donating their cards to Good360 can do so at https://donatemycard.com/Good360. Lawrence Bracco, CEO and co-founder of Donate My Card, said, “Good360 has long understood the powerful potential in bringing corporations together with charitable causes. Their logistics capabilities and Fortune 100 relationships make them one of the most effective nonprofit organizations in the world. We are excited to be working them to further their reach as a Donate My Card participating charity.” About Donate My Card Donate My Card’s mission is to turn the billions of dollars in small, unused balances on prepaid gift and debit cards into resources for great causes. Donate My Card is a privately held company and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. About Good360 (formerly Gifts In Kind International) Working with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies, Good360 (www.good360.org), is a charitable organization that is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of thousands of qualified nonprofits by distributing corporate product donations around the world. Good360 is ranked by Forbes Magazine (listed as Gifts In Kind International) as one of America’s best-managed charities. PRESS CONTACTS: Sandra Miller, Donate My Card Telephone (424) 233-0230 x106 smiller@donatemycard.com
• 03/15/2011 - Baby Codes Author Kevin Mills Teams Up with Good360 to Give Diapers to Babies in Need
  
  

  Baby Codes Author Kevin Mills Teams Up with Good360 to Give Diapers to Babies in Need.

  Portion of each book sale buys Seventh Generation diapers 03.15.2011– Diapers can cost as much as $80 a month and there are no government programs in place to help defer the cost for needy families. That’s a huge struggle for those who can’t afford them, forcing some parents to take drastic measures—including stuffing underwear with newspapers. The new Changing Diapers, Changing Lives campaign aims to fill this void by distributing 10 million Seventh Generation diapers to families in need. Author and stay-at-home dad Kevin Mills teamed up with Good360 (formerly Gifts In Kind) to help. “It’s painful to imagine parents not being able to provide for their child something as simple and necessary as a fresh diaper,” Mills says. With every donation received, Good360 will be able to purchase, store, and ship diapers to its nonprofit network free of cost. A portion of every sale of Mills’ new book, Baby Codes: 101 Winning Combinations to Help Your Baby Sleep, will buy diapers for underprivileged children. Mills, a sleep coach and dad to three, says his book helps crack the code for getting babies to sleep so parents can too. Baby Codes is a compilation of 101 top tips and fresh ideas, concisely written with today’s busy (and sleep-deprived) parents in mind. “I wrote my book to help new parents, I just never expected that it would help in this way,” says Mills. “I’m extremely excited to be able to use my book in helping meet this need.” “Good360 developed the Changing Diapers, Changing Lives campaign to address the overwhelming need for diapers by low-income parents who struggle to provide basic necessities for their families. “We are incredibly excited to partner with Kevin on this project,” saidMelissa Trumpower, Chief Marketing and Nonprofit Relations Officer for Good360. “Parents can feel good knowing they’re not only getting a book full of great information, but directly helping other parents in need at the same time.” To learn more visit www.facebook.com/giftsinkind or simply text BABY to 52000 to make a $5.00 donation. Baby Codes is available for purchase on Amazon.com for $10.99. For more information about Baby Codes visit www.BabyCodes.co. For interview requests or information contact Alison Storm at (239)292.7343 or Alison@alisonstorm.com.
• 
  Pick Up a Copy of Baby Codes at BabyCodes.co
• 02/10/2011 - Changing Diapers, Changing Lives campaign Featured on WUSA9 MomsLikeMe.com segment
  
  

  Changing Diapers, Changing Lives campaign Featured on WUSA9's MomsLikeMe.com segment. Click here to watch the interview.
• 02/03/2011 - Dialing for Diapers - 7GenBlog
  
  

  Changing Diapers, Changing Lives--These days, too many of our friends and neighbors have too little. This is especially true where struggling families are concerned. It costs about $11,000 a year to raise a child, but one in four families earn less than that. So we came up with a quick and simple way for all of us to help these moms and dads using nothing more than our cell phones.

  It couldn't be more essential, and it couldn't be simpler. Just text the word "BABY" to 52000. When you do, you'll make a one-time donation of $5, which we'll use to help solve one of the biggest yet most underappreciated problems facing impoverished parents: the desperate need for diapers to keep their babies healthier and happier. Working with Gifts In Kind International, our goal is to raise $10 million dollars for needy families and use it all to give their littlest members a better start in life. We're hopeful that we can make a huge difference in homes all across the country, but it's a big challenge. We're talking an extraordinary two million text messages that must be sent in order for us to have the kind of impact that's needed. Please take just 10 simple seconds to text "BABY" to 52000 and put a clean diaper on a needy newborn. If you don't have a cell phone, you can donate online. It doesn't matter which method you choose. It only matters that we all come together to change the world one diaper at a time. http://www.seventhgeneration.com/learn/blog/dialing-diapers
• 12/08/2010 - Gifts In Kind International Announces $375,000 Toy Donation by Scentsy, Inc., in time for the Holidays
  
  

  Gifts In Kind announced that Scentsy, Inc., has donated $375,000 in plush toys to be distributed to Gifts In Kind International groups across the country. The donation was announced today as part of the NBC TODAY Show’s annual toy drive and is part of a larger pledge by Scentsy worth $2.5 million in toys for nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping children.

  “Gifts In Kind is thrilled to receive these Scentsy toy donations to distribute to our large network of nonprofits that serve families in need,” said Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and president of Gifts In Kind International. “The toys will brighten the lives of many children whose families may be struggling over the holiday season.” Gifts In Kind International will receive 15,000 Scentsy Buddies, a cuddly companion for children ages three and up. There are six Scentsy Buddies, and each features a zippered pocket that holds a fragrant Scent Pak™. Children can register their Buddy, play games, and print an adoption certificate at an interactive website, scentsybuddy.com. “We try to contribute more than we take everywhere we do business,” said Heidi Thompson, President of Scentsy. “We are blessed to be in a position where we can help children around the country. We hope our Scentsy Buddies will create some wonderful memories for kids this holiday season.” Scentsy’s flagship product is a wickless candle heated in a decorative ceramic warmer. The Scentsy Buddy is the newest addition to the company’s home fragrance line and allows children to enjoy fragrance in a fun, safe way. About Gifts In Kind International Ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America, Gifts In Kind International (www.giftsinkind.org) is dedicated to helping people and communities by distributing new corporate product donations—including books, toys, personal care products and clothing, building supplies, computers and other technology products, and much more—to qualified nonprofit organizations. The charitable organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies. About Scentsy Scentsy, Inc. is a rapidly growing party plan company offering a variety of scented, wickless candles heated in decorative ceramic candle warmers. The simplicity and value of its flameless candle products provide a better alternative to burning wicked candles in the home and office. What began in 2004 in a 40-foot ocean container on a small sheep farm is now an international company headquartered in Meridian, Idaho, with more than 80,000 current Independent sales Consultants in the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and Canada. To learn more or find a Consultant, visit www.scentsy.com.
• 12/04/2010 - Gifts In Kind, NLC to Distribute Denver-based Product Donations to Mile-High Youth Corps and other Denver Nonprofits
  
  

  Today, in Denver, Colo., Gifts In Kind International distributed product donations collected from Denver businesses and sorted by attendees at a National League of Cities (NLC) service project held during the 2010 Congress of Cities & Exposition to local Denver nonprofit Mile High Youth Corps.

  Gifts In Kind International partnered with the NLC to bring product donations to Denver-based nonprofits. Numerous local businesses in the surrounding Denver area provided products ranging from clothes to housing materials for sorting and distribution to local qualified nonprofits. Local elected officials from across the country sorted the items during the 2010 Congress of Cities & Exposition this past week in Denver, Colorado. “Gifts In Kind is excited to partner with NLC to help connect local resources with Denver community nonprofits,” said Cindy Hallberlin, CEO and president of Gifts In Kind International. “Most cities are not aware that there are valuable local resources going unused every day, and in some cases are destroyed. Product giving can offer timely solutions to help alleviate the carrying costs of inventory and allow a business to help the communities where they do business.” “The work done by Gifts In Kind, creating synergy between private companies and the nonprofit sector to help people in need, is true corporate citizenship,” said Mayor John Hickenlooper. “We very much appreciate the many local businesses in the Denver area for their contributions, as well as the NLC attendees who helped to sort the products for distribution. Their dedication helps fuel the success of programs like Gifts In Kind.” Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC), one of the recipients of these donations, received a pallet of requested building and renovation products to use in their young adult programs. These programs help youth develop valuable job skills while giving back to metro Denver and Southern Front Range communities. MHYC is a member of the Neighborhood Energy Action Partnership (NEAP) and employs and educates over 300 young people each year. “We empower young people to improve their lives and our communities through service,” said Dr. Kelly Causey, the Executive Director of the 18-year-old organization. “They earn a paycheck, an AmeriCorps Education award, and job experience while helping others. It’s definitely a win-win for everyone involved. Support from Gifts In Kind International goes a long way in helping nonprofits like Mile High Youth Corps stretch our dollars so that more resources can go directly to the youth.” Youth Mentoring Collaborative, NEAP, and Denver’s Road Home, three collaborative nonprofit groups, will each receive a pallet of donated products. All other collected product donations from the service project will be available for free to registered Denver nonprofit organizations to pick up at a designated Denver warehouse. More than 120 Denver nonprofits registered with Gifts In Kind for this event to receive donations. They will be able to choose and receive the products starting next week. “We are proud to be partnering with Gifts in Kind to repurpose these items so instead of potentially being wasted they will help Denver-area nonprofits," said Ronald O. Loveridge, mayor of Riverside, CA and president of the National League of Cities. He continued, "We hope that this will spark our members to replicate this activity in their own cities and towns across the country.” PRESS CONTACTS: Mike Roque, 720.913.8851, mike.roque@denvergov.org Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships Gregory Minchak, 202.626.3003, minchak@nlc.org National League of Cities Kara Kozimor, 703.299.7575, kkozimor@giftsinkind.org Gifts In Kind International Kelly Causey, 303.903.3431, kellyc@mhyc.net Mile High Youth Corps ### About Gifts In Kind International Ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America, Gifts In Kind International (www.giftsinkind.org) is dedicated to helping people and communities by distributing new corporate product donations—including books, toys, personal care products and clothing, building supplies, computers and other technology products, and much more—to qualified nonprofit organizations. The charitable organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies. About National League of Cities The National League of Cities (www.nlc.org) is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans. About Mile High Youth Corps Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC) (www.milehighyouthcorps.org) helps youth make a difference in themselves and their community through meaningful service opportunities and educational experiences. The Corps employs young adults on projects in neighborhoods, public lands and open spaces throughout Metro Denver and the Southern Front Range. We have an 18-year track record of engaging youth in jobs that help the planet and provide pathways to a promising future. By integrating paid work experience on community projects with career exploration, education and lifeskills training, MHYC helps youth gain the knowledge, skills and motivation they need to make positive changes in their community, their own lives and the world. About Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships The Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships (DOSP) was created in January 2004 by Mayor Hickenlooper to serve as a liaison between the City of Denver and the nonprofit sector. DOSP believes that by working collectively, the public and nonprofit sectors can be even more efficient and effective in strengthening Denver's communities. Our Sponsors Borders Bed Bath & Beyond Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships HVHA Transportation, Inc. Colorado Motor Carriers Association (CACA) Williams-Sonoma MAXrave Bass Pro Shops West Elm Guess Disney The Home Depot National League of Cities Talbots Freeman Belfor
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  Mile High Youth Corps unloading pallets of donated product from Gifts In Kind Internation, NLC sorti
• 11/11/2010 - Veteran's home, destroyed by fire, being rebuilt
  
  

  TAMPA - Linda Webb is a U.S. Army veteran who is ecstatic to be moving into her house around the holidays. But her outlook wasn't so cheery in recent months.

  "I left my son and grandson here," Webb said, pointing to the inside of her home that is currently under construction. "And I went to McDonalds and I got a phone call from my son. " It was the call that changed her life. Her house, in which she had spent 39 years raising her kids and grandchildren, was up in flames.  Click here to read the story and watch the video.
• 10/19/2010 - The Home Depot Foundation Partners with Gifts In Kind International and Help the Children to Open Framing Hope Warehouse in Los Angeles County
  
  

  Warehouse Offers Low-Cost, High-Quality Building Products for Nonprofits.
  Today, in Los Angeles County, Help the Children, Gifts In Kind International, and The Home Depot® Foundation announced the opening of the Help the Children Framing Hope Warehouse to offer building and renovation products to local nonprofits at little to no cost. More than 600 nonprofit organizations, including a local shelter for abused women and children, a men’s shelter and a family resource center have already signed up to participate.

  The Framing Hope Product Donation Program (http://thd.giftsinkind.org/homedepot/) is a collaborative effort between The Home Depot®, The Hope Depot Foundation and Gifts In Kind International. The Home Depot stores throughout the country are matched with nonprofits in their local communities to pick up a wide variety of donated products and building supplies on a weekly basis. Since the program began in 2008, $75 million in products from more than 1,000 Home Depot stores have been donated to more than 1,200 nonprofit partners, resulting in the diversion of 35,000 tons of usable product from landfills. Launched in 2009, the warehouse strategy extends the reach of the Framing Hope program by partnering with multiple Home Depot stores with large nonprofit organizations that have the logistical capability to redistribute the products to a wide range of smaller nonprofit organizations. Current products available at the Help the Children Framing Hope Warehouse include bathroom fixtures, carpets, tile and wood floorings, window blinds and much more, all donated by ten local Home Depot stores. Nonprofits interesting in touring the warehouse and receiving products should contact Help the Children at 323.980.9870 or www.helpthechildren.org. The Framing Hope Warehouse is located at 5600 Rickenbacker Road, 1B, Bell, California 90201. A similar Framing Hope Warehouse is currently in operation in Buffalo, N.Y. “We are so pleased to partner with Gifts In Kind International and Help the Children to offer nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles county access to quality building products at minimal cost,” said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. “By not having to spend precious budget dollars on these products, these organizations will be able to invest more in their core services to the community.” For Help the Children, this partnership continues the organization’s mission to help alleviate the suffering of children and their families throughout the United States and around the world. “We are extremely excited about our partnership with The Home Depot Foundation and the Framing Hope Program,” said Roger Presgrove, president, Help the Children. “We know that this program will provide tremendous help to the children and families that we serve each and every day.” Through its partnership with The Home Depot and The Home Depot Foundation, Gifts In Kind International manages the activities of the Framing Hope program. “Gifts In Kind International is excited to collaborate with The Home Depot and Help the Children to open a Framing Hope Warehouse in Los Angeles,” said Gifts In Kind International President and CEO Cindy Hallberlin. “The new warehouse will allow smaller nonprofits to further their mission by providing them easier access to much needed products. We look forward to seeing the substantial impact the warehouse will make in the Los Angeles community.” ### About The Home Depot Foundation Created in 2002, The Home Depot Foundation supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating and preserving healthy, affordable homes as the cornerstone of sustainable communities. The Foundation’s goal is for all families to have the opportunity to live in healthy, efficient homes they can afford over the long-term; to have access to safe, vibrant parks and greenspaces; and to receive the economic, social and environmental benefits of living in a sustainable community. Since its formation, The Home Depot Foundation has granted $190 million to nonprofit organizations and supported the development of more than 95,000 homes, planted more than 1.2 million trees, and built or refurbished more than 1,875 playgrounds, parks and greenspaces. About Gifts In Kind International Ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation’s best-managed charities in America, Gifts In Kind International (www.giftsinkind.org) is dedicated to helping people and communities by distributing new corporate product donations—including books, toys, personal care products and clothing, building supplies, computers and other technology products, and much more—to qualified nonprofit organizations. The charitable organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies. About Help the Children Established in 1998, Help the Children is a non-profit humanitarian relief organization dedicated to helping alleviate the suffering of children and their families throughout the United States and around the world. Help the Children currently works with over 600 non-profit organizations including, but not limited to, homeless shelters, shelters for women, churches, senior citizen shelters, shelters for women and unwed mothers, rehabilitation centers, and individuals on a fixed income. Press Contacts: Kathryn Gallagher, 714.940.3696, kathryn_gallagher@homedepot.com The Home Depot Catherine Woodling, 770.384.2304, catherine_woodling@homedepot.com Paula Drake, 770.384.3439, paula_drake@homedepot.com The Home Depot Foundation Kara Kozimor, 703.299.7575, kkozimor@giftsinkind.org Gifts In Kind International Stephanie Stegall, 323.980.9870, sstegall@helpthechildren.org Help the Children
• 10/11/2010 - 5K for nonprofits a huge success
  
  

  More than 300 competitors took to the trails of Cameron Run Regional Park for area charities in a 5K race organized by Alexandria-based Gifts in Kind International Saturday.

  Within sight of the water park just off of Eisenhower Avenue, the mostly local slate of runners and walkers set off on a crisp, clear autumn morning for the “Charity Charge.” City Councilman Frank Fannon and Vice Mayor Kerry Donley were among local dignitaries present.       A portion of the $25 pre-race registration (or $30 on-site registration) could be designated for one of more than 20 local nonprofit organizations taking part in the race. Organizers hoped the event would raise awareness of Gifts in Kind, which liaises between corporations and other nonprofits for product donations, as well as other nearby charities.      “We are based in Alexandria, but we are an international organization,” said spokesman Colleen Clark. “We sort of feel like this is home our community. If Alexandrians don’t know who we are, we can’t expect the rest of the country to know us. We’re definitely trying to make sure the local community knows we’re here and interested in being engaged.”      If raising the nonprofit’s local profile along with money for area organizations were the goals going into the 5K then President and Chief Executive Officer Cindy Hallberlin called the day a “huge” success.      “There’s a great feeling of energy and the nonprofits all get to tell their stories,” she said, walking through a tent housing several dozen local charitable and nonprofit groups. “I think the services we provide are critical to charities. They can’t go out and purchase supplies retail. With our help they can keep their budgets tight and do more good.”      As the economic crisis forces belt tightening at every level of government, organizations like Gifts in Kind, will become increasingly important, Fannon said, still damp from the run. He finished the 5K in 28 minutes.      “With the projected turnover in the federal government and a big cut in state aid, more local municipalities are going to make decision on what we can provide,” he said. “The federal money is going to stop flowing; state money is going to stop flowing. That’s when charity groups become more important.”      Alexandria is fortunate to be home to the umbrella nonprofit group, said Fannon, chairman of the local United Way. The city is recognized as a statewide leader in giving, he said.      Seena Foster, a volunteer with Carpenter’s Shelter, the North Henry Street based homeless shelter, agrees. Events hosted by Gifts in Kind International, like the 5K, have given smaller groups the chance to get the word out about their mission, she said.       “It’s a really outstanding program that allows more people to become aware of what we do, not only just the runners, but their family members come out for this event and it does give us some notoriety,” she said. “It’s a difficult economy and the needs we serve have increased.”   By Derrick Perkins http://alextimes.com/news/2010/oct/11/5k-for-nonprofits-huge-success/
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• 09/28/2010 - NLC Congress of Cities Attendees to Participate in a Service Project, Dec. 2-3, Providing Product Donations to Nonprofits in the Denver Community
  
  

  Gifts In Kind Int', National League of Cities Partner to Help Denver Nonprofit Organizations in December

  Gifts In Kind International (www.giftsinkind.org)—a leading charitable organization in the product-giving field—has partnered with the National League of Cities (NLC) to lend a hand to Denver-based nonprofits. The organizations will join forces at NLC's 2010 Congress of Cities & Exposition, November 30 – December 4 in Denver, Colorado. Attendees of the conference will help to sort and organize products donated through Gifts In Kind from businesses and retail stores throughout the city and beyond; donations will be distributed to qualified charities in the Denver community. "Gifts In Kind International is thrilled to partner with the National League of Cities to organize a service project that will benefit the Denver community and allow conference participants to give back," said Gifts In Kind International President and CEO Cindy Hallberlin. "Thanks to our generous corporate partners we are able to support nonprofit organizations in communities across the country. Participants will learn how they can work with us in their own communities to ensure important resources are used to benefit neighborhood nonprofits." Gifts In Kind began collecting donations from local donors this week for the service project, which will take place on Thursday, Dec. 2 and Friday, Dec. 3. All products will be delivered to the convention center and sorted into cartons by NLC conference attendees. The products will be disseminated to Denver-based nonprofits, including schools and homeless agencies, housing groups and nonprofits serving children. Local charities will be invited to retrieve items from a local facility following the event. Gifts In Kind and NLC will also deliver some of the products to three charities on Saturday, Dec. 4. "NLC is honored to partner with Gifts In Kind for this great community service opportunity," said Donald J. Borut, NLC Executive Director. "We are truly excited to be giving back to the citizens of the Denver area. Is it important that, during these tough fiscal times, cities work together to help one another. This is a worthy program and we are delighted to be involved." The significance of this partnership is tremendous, as NLC is the largest organization representing municipal governments in the United States. Those attending include city leaders and local businesses, as well as content experts, allowing Gifts In Kind and NLC to encourage and emphasize the potential impact these projects can have in cities across the nation. NLC's Congress of Cities includes leadership seminars and workshops focusing on networking and learning about programs and new policy developments. Participants in the service project will be able to learn how they can work with Gifts In Kind in their own communities to utilize available community resources/donations to help local nonprofits achieve their missions. For more information about how to donate products for this project, please contact Doyle Delph at ddelph@giftsinkind.org. To learn how your nonprofit organization can benefit from this project, please contact Melissa Trumpower at (703) 299-7547 or mtrumpower@giftsinkind.org. About Gifts In Kind International Ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the nation's best-managed charities in America, Gifts In Kind International (www.giftsinkind.org) is dedicated to helping people and communities by distributing new corporate product donations—including books, toys, personal care products and clothing, building supplies, computers and other technology products, and much more—to qualified nonprofit organizations. The charitable organization works with more than half of the Fortune 100 consumer, retail and technology companies. The organization distributes products to its nonprofit network comprised of thousands of pre-vetted organizations. About National League of Cities The National League of Cities is the nation's oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.
• 08/25/2010 - Showers open for homeless, but more volunteers needed
  
  

  Showers open for homeless, but more volunteers needed.
  The Basic Hygiene Center, 516 E. First St., Port Angeles, serves individuals and families without access to showers or laundry facilities.

  Owned and operated by Serenity House of Clallam County, the hygiene center is open from 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Other days and evening hours will be added as volunteers step forward. Volunteers sign in guests, pass out personal care and laundry supplies, offer items from an on-site clothes closet and refer users to other resources as needed. "We haven't had a single problem with the people using the showers," said Sandra Enger, volunteer crew chief. People can help by donating personal grooming toiletries, laundry supplies and financial support. Toothpaste, razors, combs and men's clothing especially are needed. The hygiene center, next door to Serenity House's Street Outreach Shelter and across from the Housing Resource Center and teen Dream Center in the agency's Tempest building, also will serve as a warming station on freezing winter days. Serenity House staff, volunteers and community service workers handled most renovations, beginning last fall with the Port Angeles Fire Department's Day of Caring demolition crew and ending with KeyBank and Serenity House employees volunteering to clear and spruce up the west side entryway for the Aug. 2 quiet opening. A Benjamin N. Phillips Memorial Fund grant, materials from The Home Depot's Gifts In Kind program and other local business and corporate donors supported the construction phase. Still needed are two wall mirrors, towel racks and a pathway. Read More News http://www.sequimgazette.com/news/article.exm/2010-08-25_showers_open_for_homeless,_but_more_volunteers_needed
• 08/01/2010 - Road Kill Social Media What’s hot one day, can cool off in a hurry
  
  

  Road Kill Social Media What’s hot one day, can cool off in a hurry.
  In just less than a month, the “Skinned Alive” campaign by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) had garnered 98,000 fans, driven almost entirely through social media, primarily Facebook and Twitter. MySpace? Not so much.

  Only a few years ago, MySpace was essentially neck and neck with Facebook in a battle for social networking supremacy. These days it seems to be falling into the niche category while Facebook boasts more than 400 million users worldwide and Twitter has seen fast-paced growth during the past year. Nonprofits, it seems, are following the same lead. In the second annual survey of nonprofits’ use of social networks, MySpace saw a 45 percent dip in year-over-year usage. Only 14 percent of organizations surveyed, compared to 26 percent last year, reported a presence on MySpace, according to the Nonprofit Social Network Benchmark Report, which was compiled by Portland, Ore.-based NTEN, ThePort Network of Atlanta, Ga., and Common Knowledge in San Francisco, Calif. Meanwhile, other social networks continued to see increased participation, such as 86 percent of nonprofits responding they were on Facebook, compared with 60 percent on Twitter, 48 percent on YouTube and 33 percent on LinkedIn. In another survey of nearly 500 nonprofits by Portland, Maine-based Idealware, Facebook (73 percent), Twitter (56 percent) and video-sharing sites (49 percent) were the most widely used social media channels. MySpace was ranked lowest for outreach and enhancing existing relationships. Different platform, same techniques The basic fundamentals of fundraising remain regardless of the medium. “Just because email comes along doesn’t mean direct mail is going out the window,” said Paul Phillips, online fundraising manager for the PETA Foundation. “Everyone reinforces everything else,” he added. “Our engagement in Twitter became much deeper and a much larger part of our overall social marketing scheme,” Phillips said of the “Skinned Alive” campaign. “We probably will look for folks who use Twitter to reinforce what we’re doing across other social channels more,” he said. PETA’s strategy isn’t so much about shunning MySpace as it is about simply going to where constituents are, Phillips said. The nonprofit can still be found on MySpace, although the number of fans on the network is about 10 percent of the total on Facebook. “Chalk it up to constituents moving to a social media channel they’re most comfortable with,” he said. “If we have one-tenth the voice on MySpace that we do on Facebook, that’s entirely the driving factor of why Facebook is the central piece in this campaign. It’s much more a matter of where the audience is more active. We’re going to take PETA’s message to whatever channel constituents want us to,” he said. “A lot of the tools we provide should work across social media platforms. Part of the nature of social media is letting the crowd take the message to their friends and family,” said Phillips. Even if something comes along that turns out to be “the next Facebook,” there usually are enough compatible elements and tools that will migrate to another network. “Social networking is in large part about going to where our constituency is. At Oxfam America, we’re not focusing on MySpace as much because our constituents left it for Facebook and Twitter,” according to Megan Weintraub, new media manager at Oxfam America. The growth of Oxfam’s community in MySpace has slowed significantly during the past 12 to 18 months while its presence on Facebook and Twitter has exploded. It’s almost inevitable that something will come along eventually to knock even Facebook off its perch. Five years ago, it was Facebook versus MySpace in a duel of rival social networks. Before that, there was Friendster and MeetUp, and other social networks that were the shiny, new toy at some point. Jeff Patrick is often asked which social networks nonprofits should join. “When a new wave of things happen, it usually happens in a certain way, and understanding that helps people get a handle on that,” said Patrick, the president and CEO of San Francisco, Calif.-based Common Knowledge. “Certain things tend to happen when new technology comes in; a bunch of players hit and some evolve as mainstream players,” he said. When social networks started to take off about five years ago, there was MySpace and Facebook but also thousands of other networks. “As each one of those develops their solutions, their base of consumers, each tends to develop the company, the product and the customer base,” Patrick said. As each gets bigger, they get dominant players in each area. Years ago, the social networking space was still shaking out but today, there are strong indications of who will be dominant. Precursors to MySpace and Facebook were Friendster and MeetUp, which were social networking focused in 2000. “They got outdated and usurped when Facebook and MySpace were incrementally more social. They were just better, more shiny,” Patrick said. “They failed to see the real potential in the social networking software,” he said, and the two still exist but are not considered state of the art. LinkedIn might not be as popular as Facebook but it is solidifying its lead as the social networking platform for professionals, according to Patrick. And while it might still be too early to tell, FourSquare, a spin-off of Twitter, is making its case in the mobile social networking space. When The Buzz Wears Off A common misconception is that people assume since media coverage has slowed that something is no longer viable or even exists, according to Susan Tenby, online community director at San Francisco-based nonprofit TechSoup. A case in point is Second Life, a virtual world where you can control your avatar and buy virtual land. “At the beginning, everybody thought they had to be there because it was the sexy, new technology; there was nothing else like it,” Tenby said. Those organizations that figured out a use for it are staying in Second Life. “They’re the ones who tested itÉand are staying,” she said. Since 2008, 1,900 avatars have spent 15,000 hours at Second Life’s Nonprofit Commons, run by TechSoup. A campaign to raise money for Haiti generated $7,000 in virtual donations, and the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life raised $300,000 last year in Second Life. “It’s successful because it’s so well known. There’s huge muscle behind their following in real life,” Tenby said. Some smaller nonprofits have stepped away from Second Life and other social networks, either because they’re taking a break from social media, loss of staff or moving to their own simulation. “It’s about meeting people where they’re at. Find out where your community is,” Tenby said. It’s not really about finding a new tool, it’s about going where people are, she said. Patrick said nonprofits must determine how they want to use the social network, whether for fundraising or community building. “When you make the choice and invest in it, it has to be there tomorrow,” he said, so nonprofits have to prognosticate to some extent. “After four or five years, winners are beginning to evolve and will continue to advance in this space,” Patrick said. Weintraub expects location-based social networking will play a greater role in organizing volunteers and events for the organization’s outreach work, but “the jury is still out on which product will take the lead and be used most widely by the constituents we are cultivating,” she said. It took email several years to get to a point where Patrick was confident that it could raise money for nonprofits. “We’re getting to that place on Facebook; we’re not quite there; that likely will be solidified in the next few years,” he said. Before dumping one technology or social network altogether, Patrick suggests checking that it’s really not valuable for your nonprofit. For instance, he said MySpace appears to have some people they can’t reach other ways. MySpace tends to still attract youth and minorities. “Don’t just follow what the market trend is because it might not look as you originally imagined, you might have to adapt,” Patrick said. “If after doing that it’s clear that it’s going to be decreasingly less value for you here, falling away, cut your losses and do your best to migrate those folks to something else,” he said. “There’s no point in sticking around with something that’s not going to work.” Rather than adopting one network, figure out what demographic you want to reach with this message and decide what network you’re going to use to do it. “When you do that, you’re customizing to a network and an audience,” Patrick said. Each social network will reach an intended market versus arbitrarily picking something that you think will be the network for the rest of your life, Patrick said. “It’s not going to be. Twitter and Facebook are going to go away, we just don’t know when and what’ll replace it,” he said.  “No one wants to do business on 10 different platforms. You’d rather have a few places that work really well; that are more cost effective. Industry focuses on several, then accentuates those. That’s what’s being called widely adopted,” Patrick said. Tenby suggested nonprofits use content across a broad range of platforms. “Show them that it’s not one tool or the other,” she said, “a way to connect these tools so you have a constellation of social networks and consistent branding,” she said.  NPT By Mark Hrywna TheNonProfitTimes http://www.nptimes.com/01Aug/npt-100801-1.html
• 07/19/2010 - Just announced: the IRS is offering a one-time Special Filing Relief Program for small charities
  
  

  The IRS is offering a one-time Special Filing Relief Program for small charities.
  From the National Council of Nonprofits - Oct. 15 is the due date to preserve tax-exempt status. Watch this quick video to find out more. Please help spread the word to nonprofits who may not know about this deadline.Tax Tips: Small Tax Exempt Orgs Revised Deadline - July 2010 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLEcaDAoybc
• 07/06/2010 - Wisconsin companies contribute to Gulf cleanup effort
  
  

  Wisconsin companies contribute to Gulf cleanup effort.
  S.C. Johnson & Sons Inc. and Kohler Co. are among the Wisconsin firms contributing to the cause of cleaning up the oil-laden Gulf of Mexico.
  

  Kohler Rental, a Kohler Co. business, today announced it is providing temporary power and air conditioning services to wildlife rehabilitation centers located across several Gulf Coast States. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, a bureau in the U.S. Department of the Interior, established these wildlife M*A*S*H units following the Deepwater Horizon explosion and subsequent oil spill that has been occurring in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Louisiana since April. Included in Kohler Rental’s support effort is Fort Jackson Oiled Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, an epicenter of bird rescue and cleaning operations located in Louisiana’s fringe coastal area south of New Orleans. “The men and women rescuing, cleaning and nursing pelicans and other birds back to health in Gulf Coast states may not know Kohler Rental is onsite. And we’re not running the wildlife rescue camps. However, the people who do operate the rescue centers reached out to Kohler Rental and it’s our mission to climate control the rescue camp and deliver additional power. By providing a more comfortable working environment, Kohler Rental helps keep workers at their best throughout the countless hours spent caring for the helpless birds,” said Mike Nasif, general manager of Kohler Rental. “Kohler Rental is involved in something a lot bigger than Kohler and fortunately what we do - providing for temporary climate control and power needs - can make a difference. It has been awe-inspiring to see the passion and dedication of the people we support as they save wildlife affected by this environmental disaster.” Racine-based S.C. Johnson is donating approximately 5,000 product units of its OFF! insect repellant to provide support to the large number of relief agencies, volunteers, government, and contractor groups. The company is partnering with Gifts in Kind International, an international nonprofit organization and one of the country's largest charities, to distribute the pest control products. The product will distributed through the Gifts in Kind organization over the next few weeks. Published July 6, 2010 - BizTimes Daily http://www.biztimes.com/daily/2010/7/6/wisconsin-companies-contribute-to-gulf-cleanup-effort
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• 06/15/2010 - Volunteerism Increases at Highest Rate in 6 Years
  
  

  Volunteerism Increases at Highest Rate in 6 Years.
  The number of Americans who volunteer grew last year at the fastest rate in six years, according to a new report, defying the popular notion that hard economic times suppress civic participation.

  The report, released today by the Corporation for National and Community Service, says that 63.4 million adult Americans­—nearly 27 percent of the population—volunteered to help charitable causes last year. That’s an increase from 2008 of roughly 1.6 million volunteers, the largest single-year jump since 2003. In total, 2009’s volunteers donated about 8.1 billion hours of service, valued at nearly $169-billion, says the report, which is based on annual and monthly surveys of roughly 100,000 Americans age 16 or older, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last year’s figures defied expectations, according to the report, which pointed to the common assumption that when the economy goes sour, people turn inward to focus on their own circumstances. “The data, however, tell a different story,” the report says. An increase in volunteer rates among women ages 45 to 54 and among married women helped fuel the rise in volunteer numbers. Among black women, volunteer rates rose nearly two percentage points, to 22.8 percent. The organizations at which Americans chose to volunteer stayed fairly consistent between 2008 and 2009. As before, the largest percentage of Americans—more than one-third—volunteered at churches or with other religious groups. But the economic downturn may have stirred more people to donate their time to social-service organizations, which counted 8.8 million volunteers last year, up from 8.4 million in 2008. Click here to go to the entire article.