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Dear Avaazers,

This is the moment we were created for.

Only massive, people-powered action in a million different acts of kindness in communities across the world can slow this virus. And we are 56 million caring people in towns, cities and villages across the planet ready to get to work.

Already, Avaazers around the world are taking action in their communities, starting or joining hundreds of "Viral Kindness" Facebook groups to connect, identify ways we can help each other, assist the most vulnerable, and share wisdom, hope and kindness. But we need even more of us to join in -- click to find your nearest group, or start your own -- we’ll send you everything you need!

Yes, I'd like to start or join a Facebook group

Local support groups are proving crucial in assisting vulnerable groups to maintain isolation, like bringing food or essential medicine to the quarantined. They can also share vital information to keep people safe.

And just as important, they can spread wisdom, humour and kindness to help keep our spirits up. We may be physically distanced, physically disconnected. That's all the more reason to stay emotionally connected. This virus will be a marathon, not a sprint, and we're going to need each other.

The process is easy, just click below to start or find your local group, and then join! The groups are being run by hundreds of Avaaz volunteers around the world, with the Avaaz team providing ideas for the content, tactics and emerging wisdom to share. This is how we help, let's get it done:

Yes, I'd like to start or join a Facebook group

If you don't want to start a group, but there isn't one in your area yet, watch this space! In a few days, we'll email everyone with a link to the group closest to you.

Avaaz members have long connected just through a global petition page or live chat. It's time to connect locally, see each other, and work together -- everywhere. Start a group, or search Facebook for a "Viral Kindness" group in your area. This virus could kill tens of millions of people, and its threats to us don't stop there. Let's come together as humanity to face this challenge together.

With hope,

Ricken and the whole Avaaz team