Virtual realities might soon be a place to raise real money.

By Melissa Busch

Among the nonprofits with a SL presence, perhaps the most successful in terms of fundraising is the American Cancer Society. Over the last four years, ACS has raised more than $275,000 from its virtual Relay For Life events, according to Randal Moss, director of ACS’ Futuring and Innovation Center. Donations have steadily increased — from $5,000 the first year to $111,000 (as of June 11), and the virtual walkathon for 2008 isn’t until July 20. The society also has raised $4,000 for its virtual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign.