Laura and John Arnold Foundation Invites 600 New Nonprofits to Join Video Library

HOUSTON, Dec. 11, 2012 The Laura and John Arnold Foundation (LJAF) today announced the launch of Phase II of the Giving Library – the addition of 600 nonprofit organizations to the innovative online video library designed to help philanthropists more efficiently survey the landscape of giving opportunities and connect with nonprofits through engaging video interviews. The Giving Library, which launched in August 2012, currently has 250 participating nonprofit organizations.

"The Giving Library is being used by foundation grantmakers and individual donors who seek a more efficient, interactive and engaging method of charitable giving," said Kerry Vaughan, Technology & Innovation Manager at LJAF. "Given the positive response from donors and nonprofits alike, we are excited to extend this opportunity to even more organizations that are doing important work around the country."

Each organization is featured on a unique profile that includes two types of videos: a short overview video that provides a broad understanding of an organization's work and a Q&A video interview designed to model an in-depth, face-to-face meeting between a donor and a nonprofit. These videos allow donors to learn about a nonprofit organization's origins, objectives, metrics of success, accomplishments and plans for the future. This information, in turn, allows philanthropists to make strategic and efficient donor decisions.

"American Rivers is delighted to participate in the Giving Library," said Robbin Marks, Senior Director of Development for American Rivers. "Written materials alone are often not enough to capture the scope and vision of an organization. This innovative online approach makes organizations come alive, providing the opportunity for nonprofit leaders to share their challenges, stories and hopes for the future."

The cost of participating in the Giving Library is 100% covered by LJAF. This includes transportation to a production studio in Houston, Texas; lodging expenses for an overnight stay if necessary; and video production, editing, and hosting on the Giving Library website.

The Giving Library also announced a new partnership with GuideStar, one of the most respected sources of nonprofit information. "GuideStar is passionate about increasing the amount of quality nonprofit information to donors and funders. We believe that the nonprofit sphere will be the most effective when this information is widely available and high-quality," said Jacob Harold, President & CEO of GuideStar USA. "We are excited to partner with the Giving Library, an innovative tool that will add value by providing engaging and in-depth information to donors."

The Giving Library invites all types of nonprofit organizations to apply. To be considered for one of the 600 new spots, please complete the application located here. All applications must be received by February 11, 2013.

For more information, please visit www.givinglibrary.org or contact [email protected].

About the Laura and John Arnold Foundation
The Laura and John Arnold Foundation is a private foundation that currently focuses its strategic investments on education, criminal justice, public accountability, and research integrity. It has offices in Houston and New York City. www.arnoldfoundation.org.

Contact:
Lilly Yu
(713) 554-1930
[email protected]

SOURCE Laura and John Arnold Foundation