Building community in your area? Check out the Community Organizers Handbook. Includes everything you need to start and grow a NetSquared Local group or any other community-powered program.
NetSquared is an initiative ofTechSoup
NetSquared enables social benefit organizations to leverage the tools of the social web.
Questions & Answers...
What's *really* new on the Web, as opposed to buzzwords and soundbites?:
What's really new, I believe... is the diversity on the web today.
It used to be that only computer geeks could have all the bell's and whistles... usually because they were the only ones that knew how to opperate them!
Today there is so much advanced technology that even the extremely technically challenged are able to build a website, blog, and interface with the entire world! 
Which tools best embody the new opportunities from your point of view and why?:
I'm not sure we're talking about the same "tools", however, I believe "links" are huge!
It can be so overwhelming to try and find certain sites or information, especially when you have a time crunch or you have a million other tasks starring up at you from your desk.
When you have an informational website that has clear and interseting links, it can be literally invaluable!
Who's doing the best work with the new tools (technically or in terms of social benefit or both)?:
Of couse, Tech Soup has a huge part to play in social benefits... and donarpowerblog.com as well.
What's the bad news? What are the greatest barriers preventing web-based technology from producing social change?:
Fear and intimidation.
There are a number of great and powerful donors who are still in the dark ages regarding the computer and the web. Many people, especially those Patriarchs of the business world, who are still intimidated by technology or just to darn busy to learn.
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