Could it be possible to save lives by playing games?

For those of you who played our game Deliver the Net last year for World Malaria Day, you know the answer to this question is yes. Thousands of people across the country delivered virtual nets, and with help from a generous sponsor, we were able to send more bed nets and save lots more lives from malaria.

And now, a new social game on Facebook called African Safari allows you to go on a virtual gift-giving safari with your friends. The best thing about this free-to-play game is that a portion of the advertising revenue earned is being donated to the UN Foundation’s Nothing But Nets campaign. 

The game was developed by Mob Science, an organization that has created two other casual games with an associated philanthropic cause. Mob Science’s Michael Witz says that in its first month, African Safari has already raised $1,000 for Nothing But Nets, which equates to 100 bed nets for families in Africa. For supporters of the campaign who might not be able to donate online, playing a game like this is a fun and easy way to make a real difference.

Other Mob Science apps include Sea Garden, which benefits the Surfrider Foundation and Willy's Sweet Shop which benefits St. Jude Children's Hospital. Not even one year old, Mob Science has already raised more than $20,000 for these charities.

Thanks to Mob Science for creating a game for a good cause and helping us send nets and save lives!