I spent alot of time during the day chatting with friends and co-workers using instant messaging. Whether I'm catching up with friends half the US away or asking a co-worker in the next office about something (yes, we programmers are pretty lazy), IM has become something I utilize heavily.
Recently I discovered that Microsoft launched a new initiative, called I'm, to aid various social causes through the use of their Windows Live Messenger service. The premise is simple, everytime you start or join a conversation, Microsoft will donate a portion of the advertising revenue to a social cause of your choice.
There are quite a few causes to choose from too:
To join, follow this link or click the 'I'm Join Now' link in my left side bar, download the Windows Live Messenger client, choose a social cause to support and get chatting, Microsoft takes care of the rest.
This is a great way to support a social cause you belive in by doing something we all do anyway.