Selecting an item from the menu will instruct the computer to retrieve that resource, which may be a document, a file, or another menu, located on a computer anywhere in the world. Much easier to use than FTP, gopher is regarded as the first intuitive method for navigating the Internet. Gopher sites pertaining to non-profits include HungerNet, the Institute for Research on Poverty, and the Corporation for National Service. Instead of the structured gopher menu, WWW documents read like normal writing, with the hypertext links serving as footnotes leading to more specific information. The WWW will also display photos, sound and even short video clips to users with the correct equipment.
Web sites pertaining to nonprofits include ones covering homelessness, elderly, and free software.
Telnet - the ability to logon to a remote computer and search databases contained on the system. Many library systems and other information sources use this method to connect users throughout a state or region. The information can be a basic text version of an agency's brochure, or a sophisticated, searchable database to connect clients to the appropriate social services. For a fee, these services provide users access to unique information such as online versions of national newspapers and magazines, discussion groups and databases. While the emphasis is on local information, many community networks provide Internet e-mail and some gopher links to the Internet.