In July, 2019, over 500 users of AO3 decided individually to send in messages of support and love to the volunteers via the Technical Support & Feedback link on the site, thanks to a post by naryrising.



Far from being overwhelming or ignored, as some supporters feared, the messages were lovingly copied (without identifying details) and offered to the entire volunteer community as encouragement. Messages thanking volunteers for specific work they’d done. Messages about what AO3 means to users. Messages about the power AO3 has to lift people up.

It matters. Because AO3 can’t afford to pay its volunteers, everyone here works because they want the site to continue to exist. Not only for ourselves, but for everyone. I, personally, have never witnessed a direct outpouring of support like this.

Your kindness is appreciated beyond what you can imagine.

