[NOTE: This is a working draft and it will probably change a bit after the FAQ is done.]

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Do you like new ideas? Do you enjoy connecting dots and people? If so, we hope you’ll join us!

Since 1995, Idealist.org has been using the Web to connect people and organizations around the world. But we’ve always wanted to do more. Now, starting from New York, we want to build a global network that will help people everywhere take action on any issue that concerns them, locally or globally, online or in person.

During the week of May 7th, in neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces across the city, teams of Idealist volunteers will launch this network by hosting a series of “3Q parties” where, over some food and drink, people will be invited to share a story from their life that would answer three simple questions:

1. Think of a moment, today or ten years ago, when you wanted to help someone or change something in your community (or anywhere in the world), but for some reason you didn’t do it.

2. Why didn’t you do it? What got in the way?

3. What would have helped you do it? Or what would help you to do it now?

Most people have at least one story to tell, and these stories can be very powerful. But drawing out what people want to do is only the first step. As soon as these intentions are voiced they can often be turned into action, and that’s what this project is about.

To learn more about this initiative, and about how you can get involved, please take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions (coming next week). Thank you!