From recording his own video to spotlighting anti-bullying groups like GLSEN, President Obama is helping to make sure “It Gets Better” for LGBT youth.

With your help, this movement is growing person by person, dollar by dollar, in communities across the country.

President Obama spoke from the White House yesterday about the ongoing response to help communities affected by Hurricane Irene.

“First, let me say that this is a storm that has claimed lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who’ve lost loved ones and those whose lives have been affected by the storm. You need to know that America will be with you in your hour of need.

“Before the storm made landfall, the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA worked very closely with our state and local partners, as well as volunteer organizations, to pre-position supplies and teams of first responders along the hurricane’s projected track. And the American Red Cross opened shelters in communities across the region. I want to thank those Americans for their work over the past several days, which has saved lives and property up and down the East Coast.

“As I’ve told governors and mayors from across the affected area, if they need something, I want to know about it. We’re going to make sure that we respond as quickly and effectively as possible. And we’re going to keep it up as long as hurricane season continues.

“Above all, the past few days have been a shining example of how Americans open our homes and our hearts to those in need and pull together in tough times to help our fellow citizens prepare for and respond to, as well as recover from, extraordinary challenges, whether natural disasters or economic difficulties. That’s what makes the United States of America a strong and resilient nation, a strong and resilient people.”

For information on how you can help those affected by Hurricane Irene, visit redcross.org. To learn more about the response to Hurricane Irene, visit FEMA.gov.

The President's 50th birthday is coming up on August 4th. But he doesn't need a post on his Facebook wall.

The President has been clear that while he focuses on the job he was elected to do, he's relying on us to get this campaign off the ground. The best gift any of us can give him is real organizing to bring more people into this campaign.

So here's a challenge: Do you think you can bring 50 new people into this campaign for President Obama's 50th birthday on August 4th?

You decide what sort of organizing is right for you:

• you can collect 50 "I'm in" commitments;
• you can inspire 50 donors to give;
• or you can get 50 people to attend a campaign event or events.

You can even do some of each. It's your choice.

If you accept the challenge, get started here.

Once you start reaching out to people, we'll help track your progress for you, invite you to a conference call to share tips and encouragement, and let you know as you reach milestones on the way to 50.

When you reach your goal of 50 new people, we'll enter your name into a drawing to join the President, his family, and other supporters at his 50th birthday celebration in Chicago next month.

The deadline to reach your goal of 50 new supporters is July 28th, just a few days before the President's birthday. So let's get moving—there are 50 people out there who need to hear from you.