At the Nonprofit Commons, we are devastated by the loss of life and destructive impact of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan last week. There is a vibrant and active Japanese community in Second Life, some of whom have come to our NPC meetings to update us on the relief efforts there.
Meanwhile, we are heartened to see that Second Life residents and organizations have responded to the tragedy through various fundraisers and virtual goods to help the people of Japan recover from this disaster. Here are a few that we know about.
Linden Lab, the makers of Second Life, are encouraging residents to contribute to Japan relief through the purchase of virtual teddy bears. So called “Linden Bears” have long been a prized item in the Second Life community, typically only available directly from staff members of Linden who give them out. These Japan-branded bears are available on their online marketplace here. Each bear costs between L$300 and 3,000, which is the equivalent of about US $1 to $10.
In the Kowloon sim of Second Life you can purchase a number of nice items, the proceeds of which go to aid the Japan recovery effort. Head to this teleport link to check it out. New World Notes has info about other fashionable items you can purchase for your avatar that assist in Japan relief.
There are several other fundraiser and support events in Second Life happening over the next few days:
- Pacific Crisis Center: More than 400 brands come together to offer products, with proceeds going to disaster aid relief. Participating designers have created new and exclusive items with 100 percent or 50 percent of profits going to the AmeriCares charity to help in Japan and the Pacific. Shop, donate, enjoy.
- Japan Resort: Gather and discuss the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
- Radar Magazine Fundraiser: From March 16 to April 16, Radar Magazine will be hosting and sponsoring a series of events to help raise funds to benefit victims of the Japan earthquake and pacific tsunami relief fund in conjunction with Red Cross. Events include a market with items from some the of top creators in Second Life, a special runway show featuring one-of-a-kind items, and an auction of items featured on the runway.
If you hear about others happening, please send them our way!
Written by: rikomatic