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GozAround is a new social network that matches volunteers with opportunities to be of service to nonprofits or to other individuals directly.

Ben Block, founder and CEO, describes his thinking about the new platform, “I can distinctly remember experiences that have shown me the power of helping someone, even in a small way, but also the regret that can come from failing to act.”

He explains his goal for GozAround: “In the world of the 70-hour-workweek, we need to make volunteering and giving back easier for people. My goal is to make it quicker and easier to incorporate kindness and compassion into daily life.”

“Research has shown humans are hardwired for compassion, so we hope the mission of our site will have universal appeal,” he concludes.

The site uses points to reward and recognize volunteers, gamifying volunteerism.

On Thursday, December 18, 2014 at 4:00 Eastern, Ben will join me for a live discussion about how you can use GozAround to find volunteers or volunteer opportunities. Tune in here then to watch the interview live.

You can download an audio podcast here or subscribe via iTunes.

More about GozAround:

GozAround is a social network designed to connect individuals and organizations in need of help with those willing to lend a hand. This includes both formal volunteer opportunities and “peer to peer” assistance directly between individuals. By completing requests users receive confirmation of their contributions and earn GozAround points in the process. GozAround points serve multiple purposes. First, they act as a sort of “virtual karma”. As you do more good, you earn more points which can be “paid forward” when you receive help yourself or redeemed for a variety of rewards. At the same time, the GozAround point system serves as a low-cost reward program for non-profits replacing costly alternatives.

Ben’s bio:

GozAround Inc. was founded in Edmonton, Alberta by a lawyer. Yes, you heard us…a lawyer. Defying the reputation of his profession, Ben Block set out in 2013 to build a central hub for community service. Believing it needed to be easier to find ways to give back to your community, or to find someone to lend a hand if you are in need, the GozAround concept was born. Ben has over 10 years of entrepreneurial experience gained in a number of industries including web design and marketing. Following the sale of his multimedia design business in 2009 Ben practiced as a lawyer in Edmonton, Alberta, while still fostering his passion for business and community. Ben was once praised as an award winning “behind the scenes” contributor to community service, and has since participated as volunteer with local and international organizations. His day-to-day passion for helping others served him well in his legal practice, and is something Ben hopes to encourage the same on a bigger scale through the GozAround community.

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Devin D. Thorpe