Mission:
To provide individuals with a way to make a difference in the lives of people in Africa through a single, tangible gift.

Background:
Ripple Effect was launched in 2008 by the Washington State University Foundation, a nonprofit organization working to maximize private support for initiatives of WSU and its regional campuses. Gifts purchased on the site are delivered to families and communities in Malawi through a partnership with the university's International Research and Development unit and Total LandCare.

Outstanding Web Features:
Through the donation portal, visitors to the Ripple Effect Web site can purchase items such as a well or fish farm kits that will improve the lives of people in Malawi. The site includes profile pages for each type of gift that include information about how the item will positively affect local communities and a list of related gifts available for purchase. Gifts are sorted by category, popularity, and urgency. Visitors to the site also can learn more about the "ripple effect" process through an interactive slideshow; send e-mails about the project; and read the organization's blog for related news and announcements.