Social Issues and Social Welfare

The relationship and responsibilities of societies, especially political entities, to their members.

Sub-headings:

Animal Rights

Crime

Disabilities

Housing

Human Rights

Hunger

Literacy

Knowledge of, or competency in, a nonverbal method of sharing information or communicating, such as reading and writing, using computers, or locating information resources.

Peace

Philanthropy & Social Service

Poverty

Public Safety

Social Work

Organized work intended to advance the social conditions of a community, and especially of the disadvantaged, by providing psychological counseling, guidance, and assistance, especially in the form of social services.

Terrorism

War

Resources in this category:

ACORN: Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now
http://www.acorn.org/

ACORN organizes in communities across the United States to bring about economic justice. The Web site contains information about the organization's history and platorm, as well as how to contact offices throughout the country. Its platform covers many issues, including: energy, health care, housing, work and workers' rights, rural issues, community development, rape, civil rights, and education.

Action Without Borders
http://www.idealist.org/

Action Without Borders is a global network of individuals and organizations sharing ideas, information and resources, which uses the Internet and local chapters to promote and facilitate collaboration volunteerism and social service. The site provides services such as Idealist, where nonprofit organizations can post information about their services (currently serving 11,000 organizations in 125 countries) and an online library of resources for nonprofit managers.

The Ad Council
http://www.adcouncil.org/

"For 55 years, the Ad Council has created the timely and compelling public service messages Americans needed to hear. Along the way we¹ve given our culture some of its most enduring slogans and characters, Smokey Bear to name but one. But our slogans and characters are more than memorable ­ they raise awareness, inspire action, and save lives... The Ad Council uses the power of advertising to stimulate action against the problems confronting Americans today. We are joined in this mission by the media, the advertising industry, the business world and the non-profit community." The site includes Ad Council news, a calendar of events, and research results.

African Wildlife Foundation
http://www.awf.org/

"The African Wildlife Foundation has been working with the people of Africa to protect their invaluable natural resources since 1961. Most of AWF's staff is based in Africa, where they work at the grass roots with park managers and communities to safeguard wildlife and wilderness areas. We also keep the big picture in mind and help African nations design long-term strategies for conserving their magnificent natural treasures for all the world to enjoy." Site includes information about endangered African animals and steps that can be taken to save them, plus excerpts from their publication African Wildlife News.

The Alexis de Tocqueville Institution
http://www.adti.net/

"Since 1988, the Alexis de Tocqueville Institution has studied the spread and perfection of democracy around the world. In this, we follow the principles of Tocqueville himself, while claiming no unique mandate to represent them. Among these liberal ideas are civil liberty, political equality, and economic freedom and opportunity."

Altrusa International, Inc.
http://www.altrusa.com/Home/Default.asp

"Altrusa International is an international association of business executives and professional women and men who volunteer their energies and expertise in projects dedicated to community betterment. Altrusa is a community service organization that epouses volunteerism, serivice and fights for literacy and against AIDS." This site provides information on how to get involved with this organization, conventions occuring, publications and other helpful links.

American Association on Mental Retardation
http://www.aamr.org/

"AAMR is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization of professionals (and others) concerned about mental retardation and related disabilities". Its "mission is to promote global development and dissemination of progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and univeral human rights for people with intellectual disabilities". The AAMR website provides access to a vast number of online resources on various aspects of mental retardation and related issues, information on profesisonal publications , meetings and continuing education for professionals in the field.

American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research
http://www.aei.org/

"The American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research is dedicated to preserving and strengthening the foundations of freedom‹ government, private enterprise, vital cultural and political institutions, and a strong foreign policy and national defense‹ scholarly research, open debate, and publications. Founded in 1943 and located in Washington, D.C., AEI is one of America's largest and most respected 'think tanks.'"

American Family Foundation
http://www.csj.org/

"AFF is a secular, nonprofit, tax-exempt research center and educational organization founded in 1979. AFF's mission is to study psychological manipulation and cultic groups, to educate the public and professionals, and to assist those who have been adversely affected by cult experience." This site provides links to information regarding publications, articles, an electronic bookstore, announcements, events, and help.

American Jewish World Service
http://ajws.org/

"American Jewish World Service is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing nonsectarian humanitarian assistance and emergency relief to disadvantaged people in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle Easr, Russia, and Ukraine. Working in partnership with local grassroots non-governmental organizations AJWS supports and implements small scale international development projects that assist both Jews and non-Jews in need. Through the Jewish Volunteer Corps, AJWS provides skilled Jewish men and women the opportunity to volunteer their expertise and provide skilled and technical assistance in villages and communities in the developing world."

American Planning Association
http://www.planning.org/

"The American Planning Association is a non-profit public interest and research organization representing 30,000 practicing planners, officials, and citizens involved with urban and rural planning issues. Sixty-five percent of APA's members are employed by state and local government agencies."

This site includes: a weekly digest of news; a searchable membership directory; and information on job search and careers, policy issues, research, and publications. Information for the public is also available.

American Public Health Association
http://www.apha.org/

"The American Public Health Association (APHA) is the oldest and largest organization of public health professionals in the world, representing more than 50,000 members from over 50 occupations of public health. The Association and its members have been influencing policies and setting priorities in public health since 1872." This site provides membership information, an APHA publications catalog as well as information and excerpts from some of its publications, recent news releases, and a list of affiliates, caucuses, section and special interest groups. It also includes job openings, information about the international nutritional clearinghouse, links to other public health information sites, fact sheets and issues papers regarding legislative issues, and a link to the World Federation of Public Health Associations.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer

"Ever since The ASPCA was founded in 1866, it has worked to alleviate pain, fear and suffering in animals through means such as humane law enforcement, legislative advocacy, education and hands-on animal care... The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is the oldest humane organization in the Western Hemisphere. It was founded by Henry Bergh, a diplomat in the U.S. delegation to Russia under President Lincoln, in 1866, and was modeled after England's Royal SPCA. Driven by Bergh's mission to 'provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States,' The ASPCA committed itself to alleviating pain, fear and suffering in all animals." This site contains information on pet care, pet overpopulation, issues and advocacy. Also contains an essay contest.

The Association for Community Networking
http://www.afcn.org/

"The Association For Community Networking (AFCN) is an educational nonprofit corporation dedicated to fostering and supporting 'Community Networking' -- community-based creation & provision of appropriate technology services. AFCN's mission is to improve the visibility, viability and vitality of Community Networking by assisting and connecting people and organizations, building public awareness, identifying best practices, encouraging research, influencing policy, and developing products & services." The site describes the concept of community networking and provides examples of successful community networks.

Atlantic Institute for Market Studies
http://www.aims.ca/

"AIMS is an independent economic and social policy think tank. Our role includes: sponsoring research of the highest standards of objectivity and comprehensiveness, with a view to determining whether and to what extent market-based solutions can be successfully applied to the myriad social and economic problems facing Atlantic Canada; communicating the results of that research to the broadest possible audience of policy makers, opinion leaders, business people, professionals, academics, interest groups, students and the general public both regionally and nationally."

Atrium Society
http://www.atriumsoc.org/

"This center provides information about the Education for Peace and Martial Arts for Peace bookstore and educational services which help children and adults to recognize the roots of conflict, prejudice, nationalism, racism, and other forms of conditioned thinking." Includes newsletters and listserv mailing list.

Better Environmentally Sound Transportation
http://www.sustainability.com/

"Better Environmentally Sound Transportation promotes alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling, ridesharing and taking transit in order to reduce dependency on the single occupancy vehicle in British Columbia, especially in the Greater Vancouver Area. B.E.S.T. provides a range of services to help individuals and organizations adapt their transportation choices to more environmentally sound modes. "

Capital Research Center
http://www.capitalresearch.org/

"Capital Research Center (CRC) was established in 1984 to study non-profit organizations, with a special focus on reviving the American traditions of charity, philanthropy, and voluntarism. CRC specializes in analyzing organizations that promote the growth of the welfare state ‹ now almost universally recognized as a failure ‹ and in identifying viable private alternatives to government welfare programs."

Center for Law and Social Policy
http://www.clasp.org/

"CLASP is a national non-profit organization with expertise in both law and policy affecting the poor. Through education, policy research and advocacy, CLASP seeks to improve the economic conditions of low-income families with children and secure access for the poor to our civil justice system."

The Center for Policy Alternatives
http://www.cfpa.org/

"The Center for Policy Alternatives is the nation's leading non-profit, non-partisan public policy and leadership development center devoted to community-based solutions that strengthen families and communities. CPA links elected leaders across the fifty states with private and non-profit sector leaders in the search for common ground, new ideas and resources to create solutions that work."

Center for Urban Policy Research
http://www.policy.rutgers.edu/cupr/

"For nearly three decades, the Center for Urban Policy Research has informed policymakers and scholars with its broad spectrum of applied research. CUPR is known and respected nationally and abroad for independent and rigorous analyses of housing, land use, urban poverty, community change, economic development and forecasting, and environmental policy‹and its areas of inquiry continue to expand. Not content to be solely an ivory tower academic research institution, CUPR brings its wide-ranging expertise to bear on the practical applications of its analyses to policy design and implementation. The Center¹s multidisciplinary team members have backgrounds in city and regional planning, economics, public administration, regional science, sociology, urban geography, computer programming, geographic information systems, and statistics."

Child Search - National Missing Children Center
http://www.childsearch.org/

³Child Search is an outreach to Missing, Abused & Sexually Exploited Children serving the entire nation. On-Line reporting of missing children! Free Brochure on-line! Free Safety Tips! & more!²

Children's Defense Fund
http://www.childrensdefense.org/site/PageServer

The Children's Defense Fund is dedicated to educating the public about the needs of children, with a particular focus on the poor, minority, and disabled. Their site offers important facts and figures about children in America, information about the New Welfare Law and other legislation as it relates to children, and discusses a variety of issues such as giving children a "Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start, and a Moral Start." Information about CDF conferences and internships is also available.

Citizens Committee for New York City
http://s189333073.onlinehome.us/home.php

"The Citizens Committee for New York City, founded by the late United States Senator Jacob Javits, encourages and supports volunteer action that improves the quality of life in New York City's neighborhoods. We provide vital support for the more than 12,000 volunteer community groups and hundreds of thousands of volunteers throughout the city. We help local residents combat such tough problems as drugs, crime, inter-group tensions, alienated youth, and poverty. Every year, the Committee provides hundreds of small grants, as well as practical skills training, self-help materials, special program initiatives and hands-on support for thousands of neighborhood leaders, reaching more than one million local volunteers." The committee's web site includes information on the organization's programs, a "Citizens' Portal" to local and national citizens' organizations, grantwriting tips and links, and more.

The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence
http://www.csgv.org/

"The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV) was founded in 1974 to combat the growing gun violence problem in the United States. CSGV is a unique coalition of more than forty religious, professional, labor, medical, educational and civic organizations." The site provides statistics and information on gun violence, legislative issues related to guns, educational programs for children and adults about preventing gun violence, information on legal and community efforts to prevent gun violence, and information about CSGV's free newsletter, Stop Gun Violence News (SGVN).

Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility - CPSR
http://cpsr.org/

"CPSR is a public-interest alliance of computer scientists and others concerned about the impact of computer technology on society. As technical experts, CPSR members provide the public and policymakers with realistic assessments of the power, promise, and limitations of computer technology. As concerned citizens, we direct public attention to critical choices concerning the applications of computing and how those choices affect society."

Congress for the New Urbanism
http://www.cnu.org/

"The Congress for the New Urbanism views disinvestment in central cities, the spread of placeless sprawl, increasing separation by race and income, environmental deterioration, loss of agricultural lands and wilderness, and the erosion of society's built heritage as one interrelated community-building challenge. We stand for the restoration of existing urban centers and towns within coherent metropolitan regions, the reconfiguration of sprawling suburbs into communities of real neighborhoods and diverse districts, the conservation of natural environments, and the preservation of our built legacy."
This site includes various resources, including bibliographies, news, task force reports, and membership information for the CNU.

Earth Society Foundation
http://www.earthsocietyfoundation.org/

The Earth Society Foundation was formed to foster celebration of Earth Day by Margaret Mead and John McConnell, founder of Earth Day. The organization provides information about McConnell, Earth Day, and links to other groups promoting environmental awareness.

The Environmental Defense Fund
http://www.environmentaldefense.org/home.cfm

"The Environmental Defense Fund is a not-for-profit environmental advocacy group with four main goals: (1) Stabilizing the Earth's climate, (2) Safeguarding the world's oceans, (3) Protecting human health, and (4) Defending and restoring biodiversity." This site includes news updates, information for kids, subscription information to a free newsletter, and an archive of EDF publications going back to the 1970's.

European Bureau for Conscientious Objection
http://www.ebco-beoc.org/

"The principial aim of the European Bureau for Conscientious Objection (EBCO), is to promote coscientious objection to a military service as a fundamental human right, both on national and international level. The EBCO is an European umbrella organisation of national CO organisations. We are disributing information and doing lobby work for the right of conscientious objection on a European level." EBCO homepage links to other peace organizations in Europe and the U.S.

The Evergreen Foundation
http://www.evergreen.ca/

"Since 1991, The Evergreen Foundation has been dedicated to connecting people with nature through the enhancement of healthy natural environments in schools and communities across Canada. Our mission is to support and inspire community action that promotes the connection between a sustainable natural environment and healthy communities."

Global Alliance of Performers
http://www.gap.org/

"Global Alliance of Performers is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization which bridges charities, performers, technicians, artists, buisness and the general public providing an opportunity to educate and increase public awareness of important social and environmental concerns." Site includes information on current and ongoing projects and links to related sites.

Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc.
http://www.guidedogs.com/

"Nonprofit supporting guide dog breeding and training." Site includes "information on handling guide dogs, becoming a trainer and interacting with the blind."

Habitat for Humanity International
http://www.habitat.org/

This site contains information about Habitat for Humanity International, including background on the organization, what they do, where they are located, and how to get involved. There are also links from this site to sites in French, Spanish, and Norwegian.

Handgun Control, Inc.
http://www.handguncontrol.org/

"Handgun Control Inc., is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that lobbies in favor of common-sense gun regulations at both a state and national level. The Center to Prevent Handgun Violence was founded by Pete Shields as the educational and research affiliate of HCl. Since 1983, the Center has worked closely to educate the general public about the issues surrounding gun violence in the United States." This is the site for both HCI and for the Center to Prevent Handgun Violence, the "educational and research affiliate of HCl." The site provides information on legislative gun control issues, news items related to gun violence, information on legal efforts to control guns, efforts to assist law-enforcement agencies and private citizens in preventing gun violence and information for gun owners about HCI's advocacy of "common-sense gun policies that encourage responsible gun ownership."

The Humane Society of the United States
http://www.hsus.org/

"The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal-protection organization, with more than 5 million constituents. The HSUS was founded in 1954 to promote the humane treatment of animals and to foster respect, understanding, and compassion for all creatures. Today our message of care and protection embraces not only the animal kingdom but also the Earth and its environment. To achieve our goals, The HSUS works through legal, educational, legislative, and investigative means." The site has information on HSUS activities and campaigns in the United States as well as abroad (through its international arm, the Humane Society International). It also provides information on animal cruelty and its prevention.

Impact Online
http://www.impactonline.org/

Impact Online is a non-profit organization whose mission is "to facilitate and increase community involvement via the internet. [They] seek to collaborate with and complement existing organizations and build community resources to get more people involved." The site lists volunteer opportunities available through Volunteer America, allows you to search for non-profits in your local area and has a section about the "why and how" of volunteering.

Institute for the Study of Civic Values
http://www.libertynet.org/edcivic/iscvhome.html

"The Institute for the Study of Civic Values is a non-profit organization established in Philadelphia in 1973 to promote the fulfillment of America's historic civic ideals. At a time when millions of Americans are struggling to identify the values that we share, the Institute for the Study of Civic Values believes that it is our civic values---the principles embodied in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights--that bring us together as a people. "

International Ergonomics Association
http://www.iea.cc/.

"The International Ergonomics Association is the federation of ergonomics and human factors societies from around the world. The mission of IEA is to elaborate and advance ergonomics science and practice, and to improve the quality of life by expanding its scope of application and contribution to society."

The International Union of Gospel Missions
http://www.iugm.org/

"The International Union of Gospel Missions (IUGM) is an association of over 250 faith-based charities that help the homeless, the addicted, "at risk" urban youth, and other needy people in urban center, primarily in North America. The IUGM's WWW site features information about the association, its programs, and benefits of membership. Also featured is a comprehensive directory of member agencies with contact information and an outline of the services they offer. The site provides research information concerning the efforts of faith-based charities to help the homeless, along with career and volunteer opportunities for individuals wanting to become involved."

KidsPeace
http://www.kidspeace.org/

Private, not-for-profit organization that provides educational and treatment services to help children and their caregivers overcome crises. The site provides links to crisis intervention information and resources, and includes employment opportunities at KidsPeace and Healing Magazine, a semi-annual publication.

Knights of Columbus
http://www.kofc.org/un/index.cfm

"The Knights of Columbus was founded in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1882 in the basement of St. Mary's Catholic Church by Father Michael J. McGivney and a handful of Catholic laymen. The aim of the founder and those first members was to set up a parish-based lay organization that offered insurance benefits... Today we have grown from that one local unit, or council, to nearly 11,000 councils in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Panama, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Guatemala, Guam and Saipan. Membership is nearly 1.6 million dues-paying members plus their families - approximately 4.5 million people total - many of whom are actively involved in volunteer service programs for the Catholic Church, their communities, their families, young people and one another." The site has information about the organization and what they do.

Lions Clubs International
http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/index.shtml

"Lions are members of community service clubs, dedicated to the idea that the men and women who live in a community are in the best position to know who needs help and why. More than 44,000 strong, these local clubs are part of the world's largest such organization, with 1.4 million members serving in more than 180 countries and areas. The association is both non-political and non-sectarian. Founded in Chicago, Illinois, USA in 1917 by insurance agent Melvin Jones and others, Lions Clubs International has ever since offered business and professional people a way of sharing their success by helping those less fortunate than themselves." The site has information about the association, including an FAQ and profiles of prominent programs. The current, on-line newsletter is also available as well as a calendar of events.

Macrocosm USA Home Page
http://www.macronet.org/

A non-profit clearinghouse for progressives, featuring a database directory of 7,000 organizations and projects involved in progressive approaches to environmental issues, health issues, peace and justice.

Médecins Sans Frontières
http://www.msf.org/

"MSF is the world's largest independent medical aid agency and is committed to two objectives: - providing medical aid wherever it is needed, regardless of ace, religion, politics or sex [and] - raising awareness of the plight of the people we help." MSF is also known as Doctors Without Borders. The site has information about MSF and its projects. It also provides information about how to help MSF and how to volunteer to work for MSF.

The Media Foundation
http://www.adbusters.org/home

"The mission of our non-profit society is to transform our commercial media culture and direct it towards ecological and social awareness. " Publishes Adbusters Magazine; back issues of the magazine are available online.

Middle East Children's Alliance
http://www.mecaforpeace.org/

"(A) non-governmental organization, working for peace and justice in the Middle East; focusing on Palestine, Israel, Lebanon and Iraq. Our programs emphasize the need to educate North Americans about the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy, and to support projects that aid and empower communities. We believe in insuring the human rights of all people in the region, especially focusing on the rights of children." Sponsor Playgrounds for Peace program and have sent numerous delegations to Middle East.

The National Academy of Social Insurance
http://www.nasi.org/

"A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes research and education concerning Social Security, Medicare, Unemployment Insurance, Workers' Compensation, the appropriate role of government in protecting individuals from the costs of personal health care services, and related public and private programs. The Academy provides a forum in which to explore challenges and opportunities facing social insurance and health care financing; assesses social insurance programs and their relationship to other public and private programs; helps develop scholars and administrative leaders; supports basic study, policy analysis, and research; and promotes public understanding of social insurance principles and programs. The Academy has nearly 500 members, who represent a balance of disciplines and ideologies and who are recognized experts in social insurance and health care financing."

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
http://www.nacdl.org/public.nsf/freeform/publicwelcome?opend...

"The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) is the preeminent organization in the United States advancing the mission of the nation's criminal defense lawyers to ensure justice and due process for persons accused of crime or other misconduct... This site is designed as both an open forum for the discussion of criminal justice policies and practice as well as a private online service for members of NACDL."

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
http://www.missingkids.com/

"A private, non-profit organization working in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Justice, NCMEC is a vital resource for families and America's 17,000 law enforcement agencies in the search for missing children and the quest for child protection. Since 1984, NCMEC has handled 900,000 calls through its national hotline 1 (800) THE LOST; trained 135,000 police and other professionals; and disseminated 11 million free publications. NCMEC has worked with law enforcement on 44,000 cases, resulting in the recovery of 29,000 children. NCMEC has disseminated millions of missing children photographs, with one in seven of the children recovered as a direct result. NCMEC believes that 'somebody knows,' and seeks to reach every home in America." This site has an online database of missing children, publications and organizations recognized by the NCMEC.

National Children¹s Coalition
http://home.hawaii.rr.com/gregorio/Youthkid/SFTODAY/Childnet...

NCC was also established to advocate for a much more substantial and urgent effort to stem the growing crisis of our kids: the epidemic child abuse, the alarming suicide rate among our teens, violence directed at and even by children, AIDS, runaways, domestic violence and latchkey children and a lack of adequate activities and opportunities for youth, particularly in cities.² This site contains address to the coalition, information on the Streetcats Foundation, and provides links of resources for kids.

The National Community Building Network
http://www.ncbn.org/

"An alliance of locally driven urban initiatives working to reduce poverty and create social and economic opportunity through comprehensive community-building strategies. NCBN is led by its members who together establish Network policies, goals and priorities and contribute their energy and expertise to the collective work of the Network." Site contains related news, a resource directory, and a Community Calendar and National Event Data Base.

National Council of Jewish Women
http://www.ncjw.org/

"The National Council of Jewish Women is a volunteer organization, inspired by Jewish values, that works through a program of research, education, advocacy and community service to improve the quality of life for women, children, and families and strives to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all." This site includes links to news and publications, deals with issues and advocacy, programs and projects NCJW are involved in, and has links to many other sites.

National Immigration Forum
http://www.immigrationforum.org/

The Forum advocates and builds public support for public policies that welcome immigrants and refugees and that are fair and supportive to newcomers in our country. The resources on this web site range from important immigration facts to current events and recent immigration legislation.

The Nature Conservancy
http://www.nature.org/

"The mission of Nature Conservancy is to preserve plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive." The Nature Conservancy raises funds to purchase environmentally valuable land and preserve it. The Nature Conservancy operates "the largest private system of nature sanctuaries in the world" This site includes information about regional, state, and international programs, membership information, and extensive resources about conservation science.

The Nobel Foundation
http://nobelprize.org/

"The Official Site of the Nobel Foundation" is searchable, and includes a timeline.

The Noise Pollution Clearinghouse
http://www.nonoise.org/

"We have organized to raise awareness of noise pollution and help communities take back the commons from those acting like bullies. Our efforts include building a library of resources and tools concerning noise pollution, establishing links to other groups that have similar collections, establishing networks among local noise activists, assisting communities and activists who are working to reduce noise pollution, and monitoring and advocating for stronger noise controls."

The Nonviolence Web
http://www.nonviolence.org/

"The NVWeb is home to many of the US¹s most dynamic nonviolence groups. You can get involved by reading the Issuepages and finding groups you like. Or read and post to the Discussion Group and start a issue of your own."

North America Missing Children Association
http://www.namca.com/

This site provides useful tips and information on abuse and has a photos of missing children. In addition to email, the site provides addresses and phone numbers.

PAX
http://www.paxusa.org/

"PAX is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the vision of a society free of gun violence. PAX's mission is to create a powerful national movement which brings all Americans together in support of common sense social and political solutions to the gun violence epidemic." The PAX site has statistics on guns and gun violence, information about legislation and political activism related to guns and news about gun issues.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
http://www.peta.org/

This site is full of useful information on a number of animal rights issues. You can find research projects and results, investigations and rescues, factsheets on a variety of animal-related topics, articles from PETA publications, an animal cruelty-free shopping guide, compassionate recipes, and you can visit an animal research laboratory. You can also gather information about PETA as an organization and you can become a member.

Physicians for Social Responsibility
http://www.psr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Home

Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR) is an organization dedicated to the elimination of nuclear weapons for medical and public health purposes. This website features information about their studies, findings and history.

Prevent Child Abuse America
http://www.preventchildabuse.org/

"Prevent Child Abuse America (formerly the National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse) was established in 1972 by Donna J. Stone to build a nationwide commitment to preventing all forms of child abuse." Web site includes press releases and general information for the public on child abuse and neglect.

Rainbow Warriors International
http://www.rainbowwarriors.net/

"Rainbow Warriors International is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development worldwide and human rights of Small Island Developing States, indigenous peoples and peoples not represented in the United Nations."

Rainforest Action Network
http://www.ran.org/

"Since it was founded in 1985, the Rainforest Action Network has been working to protect tropical rainforests and the human rights of those living in and around those forests. From the beginning, the Network has played a key role in strengthening the worldwide rainforest conservation movement through supporting activists in tropical countries as well as organizing and mobilizing consumers and community action groups throughout the United States."

Resource Center of The Americas
http://www.americas.org/

"The Resource Center of The Americas is a Minnesota-based nonprofit of more than 1,300 members, which provides educational resources, link individuals and grass-roots groups across national borders, and reveal the lopsided power relations within and between the Americas. The Center informs readers about indigenous rights, military repression, the environment, the global economy and democracy in both the developing and industrialized worlds."

The Soho Center
http://www.child2000.org/

"For 24 years, the Soho Center has planned and implemented innovative, child care-related programs. More recently, we have focussed on the development of innovative strategies that find and affect family child care providers - the people who care for the largest percentage of America's children in child care." Site contains information about the Center and their initiatives.

The Southern Poverty Law Center
http://www.splcenter.org/

"The Southern Poverty Law Center is a non-profit organization that combats hate, intolerance and discrimination through education and litigation. Its programs include Teaching Tolerance and the Intelligence Project, which incorporates Klanwatch and the Militia Task Force. The Center also sponsors the Civil Rights Memorial which celebrates the memory of 40 individuals who died during the Civil Rights Movement." The site includes extensive information about the Center's programs.

Surfrider Foundation
http://www.surfrider.org/

"The non-profit Surfrider Foundation is dedicated to the protection, preservation and restoration of the world's oceans, waves and beaches."

Sustainable Communities Network
http://www.sustainable.org/

"The Sustainable Communities Network is for those who want to help make their communities more livable." Provides links to resources on smart growth, economic sustainability, protecting natural resources, and governing community. Publications and papers are also available on the site.

The Tenants Union
http://www.tenantsunion.org/

"The Tenants Union is a Washington State organization that has been providing information to tenants and fighting for stronger tenants' rights since 1976." The site has useful information for tenants outside of Washington as well, such as online brochures describing tenants' rights and a directory of similar organizations in other states.

Anti-Defamation League
http://www.adl.org/

"Fighting anti-Semitism and bigotry here and abroad, the Anti-Defamation League probes the roots of hatred against Jews and serves as a public resource for government, media, law enforcement agencies and the public at large." The ADL works to expose and prevent bigotry and discrimination of all kinds against all people, with a special focus on anti-semitism. This site contains a newsletter, briefing information on a number of social issues, and special reports.

Carter Center
http://www.cartercenter.org/

"The Carter Center in Atlanta, Ga., is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy institute founded by former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, in 1982. The Center is dedicated to fighting disease, hunger, poverty, conflict, and oppression through collaborative initiatives in the areas of democratization and development, global health, and urban revitalization. At present, the Center operates 13 core programs and initiatives active in more than 30 countries, including the United States." This site has an update of news events around the world, information about The Carter Center, recent reports and speeches from President Carter can be ordered, and recent news from the Carter Center can be accessed.

Seniors Coalition
http://www.senior.org/

The Seniors Coalition is a non-profit, 501c(4), non-partisan, education and issue advocacy organization that represents the interests and concerns of America's senior citizens at both the state and federal levels. They publish "The Advocate," an online magazine. The site includes information about Social Security and other issues faced by seniors, news updates, and articles from "The Advocate."

TRAFFIC
http://www.traffic.org/Home.action

"TRAFFIC aims to help ensure that wildlife trade is at sustainable levels and in accordance with domestic and international laws and agreements. This is achieved through the investigation, monitoring and reporting of such trade, particularly that which is detrimental to the survival of flora and fauna and that which is illegal. TRAFFIC shall be a source of accurate and objective information and advice, and shall provide a technical basis for the establishment of effective conservation policies and programmes for wildlife in trade. " The site provides news and information about the wildlife trade and TRAFFIC's efforts to monitor the trade and prevent abuses. The site also provides information about how private citizens can help in the achievement of TRAFFIC's goals.

United Way
http://www.liveunited.org/?

"United Way is one of the best ways to build strong communities and help people who are in need. It's a system based on the principle that united, we are stronger than we can ever be alone. Each of the over 1,300 local United Ways raise funds for community needs." This site provides links to information regarding local; chapters, specific programs, frequently asked questions, and a helpful site index.

The Urban Institute
http://www.urban.org/

"The Urban Institute investigates social and economic problems confronting the nation and analyzes efforts to solve these problems. The Institute seeks to increase Americans' awareness of important public choices and improve the formulation and implementation of government decisions." Site includes a "Frequently Asked Questions" section and an extensive research database where users can browse or search by topic, author, or center name.

The Violence Policy Center
http://www.vpc.org/

"The Violence Policy Center is a national non-profit organization working to fight firearms violence through research, education, and advocacy. As a gun control "think tank," the VPC analyzes a wide range of current firearm issues and provides information to policymakers, journalists, public health professionals, grassroots activists, and members of the general public." The site provides information about guns and gun violence in the United States, including information about gun manufacturers, litigation against gun manufacturers, news about guns and gun violence, and information about the VPC's publications.

The Wilderness Society
http://www.wilderness.org/

"The Wilderness Society is a non-profit membership organization devoted to preserving wilderness and wildlife, protecting America's prime forests, parks, rivers, deserts and shorelands, and fostering an American land ethic." The site includes environmental news, publications, and a reference library.

Women, Law and Development International
http://www.wld.org/

"Women, Law and Development International (formerly Institute for Women, Law and Development) is a non-governmental organization committed to the defense and promotion of women's rights globally. WLD International links women's advocates around the world from women's organizations, research institutions, human rights and development organizations. WLD International is an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (Category II)."

Working to Halt Online Abuse
http://www.haltabuse.org/

"The mission of W.H.O.A. is to educate the Internet community about online harassment, empower victims of harassment, and formulate voluntary policies that systems can adopt in order to create harassment-free environments. W.H.O.A. fully supports the right to free speech both online and off, but asserts that free speech is not protected when it involves threats to the emotional or physical safety of anyone. W.H.O.A. is primarily an organization of women, but we welcome men who demonstrate sensitivity toward the issues of harassment and a willingness to support our cause." Site contains safe & unsafe site lists, resources for site administrators and the public and sample anti-harassment policies.

World Conservation Monitoring Centre
http://www.unep-wcmc.org/

The World Conservation Monitoring Centre studies and presents information on biodiversity, ecosystem and species survival. As part of the United Nations Environmental Program, this website has information on international environmental policy and decision-making.

World Wide Fund for Nature
http://www.panda.org/

"WWF-World Wide Fund For Nature is the world's largest and most experienced independent conservation organization, with around 5 million supporters and a global network of 27 National Organizations, 5 Associates, and 21 Programme Offices." WWF was formerly known as the World Wildlife Fund. The site has information on WWF's major campaigns, general environmental news and information and information on how to help the WWF in its endeavors. It also has links to the many regional branches of WWF and a form with which to contact the WWF by e-mail.

Youth Resource Center
http://www.hkfyg.org.hk/yrc/english/yr-yrc.html

"Leading youth and social work organization in Hong Kong. Specialized youth services including youth research, youth exchange, school social work, children and youth centres, outreaching social work and many others. Everything you want to know about youth in Hong Kong."