Craig Newmark Launches craigconnects

SAN FRANCISCO, March 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- craigslist founder Craig Newmark today launched craigconnects, a web-based initiative to help people work together for the common good using the Internet. craigconnects seeks to identify, connect and protect organizations engaged in work that is truly sustainable - socially responsible, self-perpetuating and replicable. The initiative's primary platform is a new website, http://www.craigconnects.org.

"I guess I got myself a 'bully pulpit' of sorts that I don't really want or need, but it's good for getting the word out about people of good will who get stuff done," said Craig.  "It's a voice for the grassroots, the rank-and-file, for people who never had a voice until now."

The initial list of organizations includes dozens working in the areas of community building, social media for social progress, journalism integrity, open and accountable government, service and volunteering, veterans' issues, and peace in the Middle East. The public is invited to submit recommendations for others to be added to the list via the craigconnects website.

"I've been doing this for nonprofits, but much more informally, for maybe 10 years, applying a lot of what I've learned doing customer service for craigslist," said Craig.  "Now I think it's time to get deadly serious."

The website will also serve as a channel through which Craig's support - as a speaker, board member, social media champion, traditional media source, etc. - can be solicited.

craigconnects is not a fundraising or grant-giving organization. It is also an entirely separate entity from craigslist, the hugely popular web platform Craig founded in the 1990s. Craig has not served in a managerial position at craigslist for more than 10 years.  

"My strong gut feeling is that this isn't altruism, at least not for me - it's just what feels right," said Craig. "Over time, we can figure out what works, find people who are better than me at this, and persist."

To find out more or participate in craigconnects, visit http://www.craigconnects.org.

SOURCE craigconnects