Google Earth Outreach Helps Nonprofits

In a new venture, Google is using its Google Earth to help nonprofits. Called Google Earth Outreach, it will use Google Earth layers to allow the nonprofits to tell their stories. The program will provide the resources andsoftware the nonprofits need to implement the technology.   While most of us know Google Earth as something free, there’s also a Pro version (which costs $400) that has tools for buildingmaps and layers.   Google took its first steps in this direction back in April, when it showed a “Crisis in Darfur” layer that had been created by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The layer showed affected areas in the region, along with video and audio testimony of the crisis. Since then others have createdlayers, including the United Nations Environment Program.   “Our goal with Google Earth Outreach is to help public service organizations worldwideleverage our mapping technology to further their goals by providing tailored technical guidance and grants,” said John Hanke, director of Google Earth & Maps.   The Outreach site willhave video tutorials, case studies, and forums moderated by staff. Organizations will also be able to apply for grants for further technical support.   The site will also have a showcase of someof the most compelling new stories. Google says there have been 250 million downloads of Google Earth to date.