The number of participants in Dean Meetups ultimately peaked at about 143, 000, spread over about 600 locations -- a huge number in those days -- and engagement in the face-to-face local groups dramatically affected how involved volunteers got with the campaign.

CNN: From Howard Dean to the tea party: The power of Meetup.com

While many patients now seek support through online chat rooms, face-to-face groups have the advantage of "the warmth and closeness that can develop when people interact on a personal level, " says Ruth Diab Lederer, a program manager at the American Brain Tumor Association.

WSJ: Giving More Support to Support-Group Leaders

These are important face-to-face meetings with all stakeholder groups, including governments, development partners, civil society and private sector.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

He spoke to journalists in Lahore at a televised news conference -- although his face was shielded from the cameras -- to address accusations that the groups were involved in the attacks.

CNN: Terror group founder detained

Networking is done face-to-face through regular meetings as well as throught web- and print-materials, linking women and their groups from different parts of this geographically distinct municipality.

UNESCO: Communication and Information

The New York Times reports today that the group was founded in 1999 by universities, nonprofit groups and by companies, including Nike, that were trying to address supply chain worker conditions in the face of criticism from anti-sweatshop groups.

FORBES: Is Apple's Move To Monitor Factories Enough?