Vlogging with ACTNOW...Episode 4: 10 websites changing the world!

In this vlog I look at some websites which show how the Internet has led to different ways of online activism. It's interesting to see how online activism has evolved. Sites like The Hunger Site involve users through clicking a button which leads to sponsors donating food to the hungry. GetUp! is a site which involves greater interactivity, not only through petitioning but also through emailing members of parliament and having your voice heard.

Yet for the most part, the Internet remains a place for information. Online magazines like Frank are not only an alternative form of media but are also taking a stand against commercialism.

http://www.seven.com.au/sunrise/

Okay sunrise isn’t a website per se, but it’s running another environmentally friendly campaign called “Cool the Globe”. They’re trying to get as many signatures as possible to get the government to bring back a rebate on solar panels. I think it’s nice to see a commercial network get behind an environmental cause…

In this week’s vlog I look at how visiting a website can enable you to lobby the federal government, donate food to the hungry and read a fun and socially responsible online magazine.

http://www.thehungersite.com
http://www.thebreastcancersite.com
http://www.thechildhealthsite.com
http://www.theliteracysite.com
http://www.therainforestsite.com
http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com

All these sites work by Internet users clicking on a button, for every click generated the sponsors of the site donate money to each cause. You can also learn more about specific campaigns, make your own donation and even send e-cards to your friends.

http://www.getup.com.au

Getup aims to promote a progressive Australia and reinvigorate democracy. The site was first set up in order to create pressure on the federal government after they gained a senate majority. Getup runs various campaigns and works through online petitioning and sending emails to federal MPs. It makes taking political action easy and is having a distinct impact as a lobbying organisation.

http://www.frankmag.com.au

I love reading magazines. However not many womens’ magazines out there are celebrity free, have no advertising and promote a positive, healthy image of young women. Frank magazine is a free online magazine which is produced monthly. It looks at current affairs, inspirational women, gives career and relationship advice and other great stuff.

And in case you're wondering what the "10th" website was...it's http://actnow.com.au !
but you already knew that.