Online 'matchmaking' helps those in need

VENICE — “Together We Can” has a simple mission: Leave no one in need.

The nonprofit was created to connect people who want to share their resources with people who need help, mainly through a website where people can post household items they’re looking to donate or something they’re in need of.

Items go online in real time and can be claimed on a first come, first served basis. The only catch is that they have to be picked up.

“The only way this works is if the donor doesn’t have to deliver,” said Jim Foubister, president of One Christ Won City, one of the two groups “powering” the project, according to the website. The other, Her Hands His Heart, was founded by his wife, Chris.

If delivery needs to be arranged, Together We Can has a truck donated by Good News Pest Solutions available.

Nonprofits can also use the site to recruit volunteers. Once all the slots are filled, the request disappears.

The website sends those who signed up a reminder of the assignment seven days out and the day before.

Although the groups behind Together We Can are church affiliated, anyone can use the website, Foubister said.

“It’s for everybody, and it’s free,” he said.

The other thing needed for the project to work is “compassionate leaders” in all areas, especially in schools, to help identify people who need help. There are about 800 in the system now, he said.

“We need as many people as we can because it broadens our ability to meet the needs,” he said. “If we put 5,000 people in this system, no need will go unmet.”

While Together We Can accepts monetary donations and uses them to meet needs, they’re not necessary. Local philanthropists make sure the nonprofit itself is funded, Foubister said.

He acknowledged that some people might try to take advantage of the project despite efforts to verify a need, but said he’s willing to take the risk.

“It’s up to their heart,” he said.