The GrassRoots home page describes the two components of the GrassRoots Experience. This page and its links explore component two, The Social Interaction Component. See how Text-Based virtual reality is used to enhance the lives of all, but especially those who are isolated by reason of a disability or by life in a rural area. GrassRoots breaks down these barriers of isolation and allows those behind walls to experience community, the social interaction between human beings that is so vital to our existence as a species.
The component of the GrassRoots Experience that makes it an effective tool for building and cementing an on-line community is that it allows real-time interaction. That is, GrassRoots is similar to a chat room and individuals can communicate with no more delay than in face to face interaction. Clearly, this facilitates social interaction.
Many individuals and groups meet in chat rooms in order to form communities. However chat rooms can prove to be unsafe and sterile. If you are seeking a place where community members must have a login name and password that can not be changed at whim, or where community members can create permanent, secure places in which to chat, then TBVR is for you. We can't promise that all hackers and malicious individuals will be barred, but we can offer considerably more freedom from these Internet challenges than the regular chat room.
Besides, GrassRoots Community residents are a congenial bunch who are building a Global village which they have created themselves. It doesn't matter how slowly you type, or if you make spelling errors. It doesn't matter if you are a newbie, GR is a friendly family community that is perfect for you and yours. the instant response to messages sent within GR makes it possible for you to have a conversation with someone half a world away.
ACOR offers online cancer information and support groups for patients, caregivers, or anyone looking for answers and support for cancer and related disorders. They use GrassRoots for online meetings.
The CSC houses the various organizations and groups which are devoted to serving all members of the global community. You will find places for students with special needs, offices of groups who have discussion lists on the St. John's listserver, a link to the archived information kept at St. John's University, and exhibits which explore solutions to problems of many kinds.
Here you will find museums, games, and areas devoted to drama and poetry.