6th Annual Craigslist Foundation Boot Camp Empowers Community Volunteers From Across the Nation

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, June 1, 2009 — Craigslist Foundation announces its 6th annual Boot Camp for nonprofit organizations and individuals interested in making a difference in their communities nationwide. It will be held on Saturday, June 20th, 2009, on the University of California, Berkeley campus. This year, the all-day program focuses on skills for connecting, motivating and inspiring greater community involvement and impact. Boot Camp '09 will place a special emphasis on community-building and the opportunities for collaboration among individuals, businesses, government, philanthropists, and nonprofits. Boot Camp precedes the 2009 National Conference on Volunteering & Service, in San Francisco.

"People are re-inventing themselves as a result of our current economy, and they are looking for ways to do that while helping their neighbors," said Lynn Luckow, Craigslist Foundation Interim Executive Director. "This year's theme, 'Connect. Inspire. Act,' echoes President Obama's recent call to service. People are answering the call but often need a little more ammunition. Boot Camp gives volunteer newcomers as well as veteran community leaders the tools they need to make a significant and immediate impact on their communities."

Randi Zuckerberg, leader of marketing, political and social change initiatives for Facebook, will be one of the keynote presenters. Craig Newmark, customer service representative and founder of craigslist.org, will also deliver a keynote on the importance of transparency and accountability.

Boot Camp has drawn more than 10,000 passionate people since its inception in 2004. More than 1,500 are expected to attend this year.

"President Obama's call to service is an exciting endorsement of the mission many of our nonprofit leaders share," said Craig Newmark, founder of craisglist. "Craigslist Foundation recognizes the vital role these dedicated individuals play in strengthening our communities. Boot Camp encourages leaders from all industries to learn from and augment each other's efforts."

Boot Camp '09 will match nonprofit professionals, social entrepreneurs and passionate individuals with the people and resources that can support their missions. Twenty-four workshops will be led by experts on topics such as fundraising, future technology, advocacy and lobbying, community building, marketing and messaging, strategic planning, and measuring success and impact.