Consumer Directed Philanthropy Edit
The Amex Members Project

Usually marketing trends do very little to inspire hope in humanity, but the macro-trend of cause marketing is one that is really making a difference.  American Express has been particularly brilliant at linking philanthropic causes with their credit cards (like the Red card).  But now they have taken charitable giving online.  A new project called The Members Project allows users to chose from a gallery of wonderful nonprofit charities in 5 categories—Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education, Environment & Wildlife, and Health.  The top 25 most nominated charities will receive several million dollars in much-needed funding. 

You only have 6 more days to vote on your favorite! So do it today by going to the Members Project website. There are a lot of great causes to chose from but my favorite is ARC - the African Rainforest Conservancy.  They have been working for decades to preserve the most bio-diverse region on Earth by supporting local villagers in creating sustainable businesses that protect the precious rainforest while providing a means for new economic growth.  They are underfunded and have a lot of work to do so I encourage you to nominate them here.

You can visit the ARC website to learn more.