Edward Norton Launches Crowdrise, the Facebook of Good Deeds

Though neither bored nor looking to steal someone else's words, we do feel that Edward Norton's online fundraising and volunteer site is pretty worthy of a gander. Social media meets charity on Crowdrise and it's already drawing a large following.

The site was inspired by the success Norton had with the online promotion of his Maasai Marathon, for which he raised $1.2 million in less than 2 months, to protect wildlife in Africa. This new platform makes it easier gather a large amount of support, and possible to reach extraordinary heights.

So, how does this work? It all starts with the profile. Then you start campaigning by setting up a fundraiser or volunteer project. Choose from more than one million charities on the site or by creating your own project. Then post your projects on your profile and start to collect sponsors or volunteers by what else ... going viral. Ask all your friends from other sites to join you in your crusade to make a difference. If you've ever participated in a fundraising walk, it's a similar process.

Feature photos, videos and testimonies on your page to create interest. Even if you don't have a cause of your own, you can still help pull in money to support your favorite organizations by putting a Crowdrise promotion on your page.

With all this giving back, maybe you want a little something for yourself? Crowdrise uses a point system to reward top earners and doers. For each vote from a community member, you get 100 points, 10 points per dollar raised through donations and 10 points per dollar donated by you. Top earners win prizes like MacBooks and gift cards. Instilling a little competition never hurt anyone especially not when the goal is to help.

Celebrities have already been joining in on the fun. Will Ferrell is offering up his Sexy Hot Tan sunscreen to help fund college scholarships for cancer survivors, Seth Rogan is Kicking Alzheimer's in the Ass, fighting malaria and supporting a theater company, while Kristen Bell is helping out Invisible Children, Dress for Success and more.

Photo courtesy of Crowdrise.