The web IS changing us

Susan — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 01:26:31 +0000

I never get tired of this – it’s a very thoughtful perspective on how the Internet is changing our lives, our culture and our sense of community…and to think that 5 years ago, we all thought that the Internet would cause people to stop talking to each other. Now people are connecting with each other more than ever and in ways never before imagined.

This is part of the Digital Ethnography working group at Kansas State University – where they originally began looking at they way YouTube connects people accross the planet:

Freecyling

Susan — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 01:14:53 +0000

With the new year I thought it would be a great time to purge some old, unwanted stuff around my home – outdated stereo equipment, shoes I only wore once in the past 2 years, toys, clothes my kids outgrew – even the old hardware from my cabinets I replaced recently.

I recently learned about Freecycle, a series of local online groups around the globe where people give and get stuff for free in their own communities. I joined my local group and was soon on my way. Within the past week I gave away several bags of clothes, shoes, equipment, and toys - all by posting offers on my local freecycle community group. All you have to do is post an offer – and typically leave the goods on my front porch at some prearranged time for pickup. For the most part, this works really well!

There are some (what I think are) strange aspects to Freecycle. I see posts like: OFFER: 1/4 can of refried beans and I can’t help but laugh. I really shouldn’t. There are folks who are struggling and could use this stuff. That’s why I love Freecycle.

I noticed people posting requests for items as well, sometimes for themselves and sometimes for others in need. Judging from the activity within my own little group, there is quite a following for this sort of thing. There also seems to be many requests for goods to help others in need.

Freecycle is a simple and genius concept – as well as a great way to build community, recycle, and help others at the same time.

http://www.freecycle.org

Life: Version 2.0 » Strengthening Communities

The web IS changing us

Freecyling