MAIN > SPOTLIGHT ARCHIVE > Benjamin_Stokes (May 18)

Monday 18th May 2009 4:45 pm

Public Forum featuring Cory Ondrejka and Jonathan Fanton on MacArthur Island

Today’s forum examined the future of virtual worlds and philanthropy.  Pictures and videos will be forthcoming.

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MacArthur Foundation President Jonathan Fanton and the former co-creator of Second Life, Cory Ondrejka (now at EMI Music), were the featured discussants in today’s public forum.  In their conversation, Ondrejka and Fanton explored the future of virtual worlds and philanthropy.  The event continues a two-year investigation into the role of philanthropy in virtual worlds led by the University of Southern California and Global Kids, with support from the MacArthur Foundation.

A video tour of the newly-opened MacArthur Island by Foundation President Jonathan Fanton is now available:

Video and pictures from the event will be forthcoming.  The event was the first to take place on MacArthur Island, a virtual island dedicated to supporting the public good.  Located within Second Life, the island features 3D interactive exhibits on issues ranging from biodiversity to human rights and education, and is available to other foundations and nonprofits for events and activities in the public interest.  For those with avatars, a visit to the MacArthur Island will offer a new opportunity for understanding MacArthur’s grantees and partners.  Accounts to use Second Life are available at no cost.  To get started, sign up for Second Life, download the software and test your avatar.  This usually takes 10-30 minutes, depending on your skill level.)

For background on the Foundation’s work on philanthropy and virtual worlds, check out the recap of the first event with Jonathan Fanton, which was held in June of 2007.  See also posts on the topic by Doug Thomas of USC, and Barry Joseph and Rik Panganiban of Global Kids. 

The exploration of virtual worlds and philanthropy is led by the USC Network Culture Project and Global Kids’ Digital Media Initiative.  Both of their websites include greater detail on the broader investigation.

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Alanagh Recreant inSL
 Uthango Social Investments
http://uthango.org
Posted on May 19 2009 9:04 AM

Congratulations…

We wish you well with your innovation to apply virtual worlds for social gain.

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