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eBay says its sellers and buyers gave a record $36 million to U.S. nonprofit organizations in 2008 via eBay Giving Works.

John Donahoe
eBay CEO

Giving Works allows people to donate to nearly 15,000 organizations in the country while on eBay. Donations were up almost 20 percent in 2008, with nearly 1.5 million people donating to a cause.

"The eBay community is incredibly generous and committed to making a difference," said eBay Inc. CEO John Donahoe. "Through eBay Giving Works, their impressive generosity in these difficult times is inspiring."

eBay Giving Works offers a number of ways to donate to nonprofits for a variety of causes that participate in the program. The company says one of the most popular ways to give is for a seller to donate part, or all, of a listed item's sale price to a nonprofit of their choice.

The listings receive an eBay Giving Works ribbon icon, helping buyers find ways to support nonprofits while shopping for bargains.

Nonprofits say the program is a good way for them to raise funds and connect with their members.

"In an economic climate like this, it's even more important for our organization to maintain a relationship with our donor base," said Donna Callejon, Chief Operating Officer for GlobalGiving.