Basically these programs function as your screen saver, and when it comes on, they crunch numbers for different research projects being conducted by scientists around the world.

1. 

   This site uses your computer processing power to analyze information on the genetic code of the parasite commonly known as malaria.

2. 

   While your computer is not being used, this program runs in the background as your screen saver, analyzing data regarding the 3-dimensional shapes of proteins. Basically it uses your computers processing power to do things that they can't (usually because they don't have enough computers to analyze all the data). This information can one day be used to find cures for diseases like malaria or HIV.

3. 

   Do you sit up at night wondering if there is action taking place somewhere in a galaxy far, far away? Well now is your chance to get in on the action of finding it. SETI @ home uses your computer during its down time to analyze radio telescope data. Basically, if ET is sending us his latest blog, you could help find it.

4. 

   This program, like the others, functions as a screen saver in the background when your not using your computer. I quote this directly from there home page "Einstein@Home is a program that uses your computer's idle time to search for spinning neutron stars (also called pulsars) using data from the LIGO and GEO gravitational wave detectors."
   As you can guess, the data received from these devices is enormous. Without the support of people, just like you, we would be decades behind in this research.

5. 

   This program is the crown jewel in the eyes of network based super computing. There mission is to create the largest community based grid of computers that can crunch data on a variety of medical based subject.

This site has set up a microlending program for entrepreneurs in various countries. It works with a simple formula: You browse people in other (poorer) countries who need money to start up a business, you lend them money through Paypal, and then they pay you back as their endeavor becomes profitable. It's a great way to help people around the world, and it feels very secure.

If you're full of knowledge (both useless and useful), FunAdvice can be a great place for you to help others by giving them advice on almost any topic. The site's “business principles” aim toward a site where advice can be given while they, “make the world a better place through improved cross cultural understanding and greater religious tolerance, enable individuals to get advice on any issue, so long as it's a positive one and promote respect, tolerance and human rights.” And it's free!

This is a great program for those bookworms out there. If you struggle with the inner conflict of being a bookworm who loves the environment, shell out a few bucks for this organization. For every dollar you give, a tree is planted. You also get a sticker for every dollar so you can put it on a book and spread the word that a tree was planted to replace the paper used for the book. If it sounds complicated, it's not, just go try it.

For anyone who is looking for a new member of the family (whether it be feline, canine or other), Petfinder.com is a free site with searchable listings of animals needing rescue. You can search by zip code and animal type and even more detailed categories, such as breed. Listings from local animal shelters and rescue groups will show photos and information about pets needing to be rescued. You will make a difference in their lives, and they'll touch yours in return.

Are you a vocabulary whiz who scored an 800 on the verbal SAT? Even if you didn't, freerice.com is a great place to expand your vocabulary and help those in need. With various vocab questions that range in difficulty based on your abilities, grains of rice are donated for every question you get right. For each correct question, Freerice donates 20 grains of rice to the UN World Food program. You've got nothing to lose.