Today, American Express launched the “I Will Volunteer” Facebook application, tapping its 2 million+ Facebook fans to support the upcoming 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11, led by nonprofit organizations MyGoodDeed and the HandsOn Network.
The new app offers Facebook users a searchable 9/11 Day database, powered by HandsOn Network, and facilities sign ups for local volunteer opportunities. Once users have signed up, they can share their activities with their friends on Facebook, encouraging further participation. Current volunteer opportunities available range from revitalizing schools in New York City’s Lower East Side, to beautifying community gardens in Phoenix, to transforming an abandoned airport hanger into a community center in Los Angeles.
“We know people are looking for opportunities to pay tribute through service as we mark this significant anniversary, but they may not know how and where to plug in,” said Timothy J. McClimon, president of the American Express Foundation. “Our goal in launching this new app with HandsOn Network is to tap in to the power of social media and give potential volunteers a direct link to service opportunities, along with the ability to sign up for and share the causes that are most meaningful to them.”
The issue hits literally close to home for American Express, who lost 11 Amex employees on 9/11 and has offices opposite the Trade Center site. AMEX has supported many initiatives to rebuild Lower Manhattan following the attacks of September 11th, including its $10 million dollar contribution to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
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