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Press Release

The inNEVation Center Plays Host to Entrepreneurs’ Organization Las Vegas Speaker 'Craigslist Joe'

On Thursday, April 4, 2013, The inNEVation Center (www.innevation.com) hosted the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Las Vegas (EOLV) presentation by Joe Garner, creator and director of the documentary "Craigslist Joe." Zach Galifianakis was executive producer on the documentary featuring Garner’s month-long adventure of using only Craigslist to obtain everything from transportation to companionship to survive. Garner is also recognized for his role as associate producer and assistant for the highly-successful “The Hangover,” “The Hangover Part II,” and forthcoming “The Hangover Part III” movies. The EOLV supports startups and entrepreneurs throughout the Las Vegas area, and the event was part of EOLV's ongoing speaker education series.

Joe Garner’s experience began in 2008 when he asked the question, “What would happen and how would I survive with nothing but a laptop, a new phone, a toothbrush and a connection to the Internet?” He embarked on a social media experiment using Craigslist as his only lifeline for transportation, food, shelter and companionship.

"Despite what I initially thought about the Internet being disruptive to meaningful relationships, I've never felt more connected. Without the use of the Internet, this would have been a very different experience for me. Craigslist provided the perfect vehicle to interact with strangers and survive through their generosity," said Garner. "Social media can truly have a positive impact when used to enhance relationships, or reach out to people you don't even know."

Garner was invited by the EOLV to share his story of perseverance through difficult and challenging times. His story uncovered elements of the Internet’s impact on social interaction and relationships, and how it could be used in times of need. His message to Las Vegas entrepreneurs: Never give up.

During the month-long social media experiment, Garner traveled the U.S., meeting people from all walks of life, and found that many he met were willing to lend a hand. He had an opportunity to benefit from the kindness of strangers, and experience their unique stories as well as learn a few life lessons about giving back.

“We are so excited to have these events hosted by The inNEVation Center created by Switch,” said Krista Whitley-Castellarin, learning chair and president-elect of the EOLV. “These types of educational opportunities are invaluable to our members.”

The inNEVation Center provides a coworking environment where startups and entrepreneurs (inNEVators) converge with business luminaries, political leaders, and investors (collaborators) to launch and nurture new ventures. It’s also a thriving business community complete with networking opportunities and educational and promotional events held at a state-of-the-art venue.

More than 9,000 viewers worldwide were invited to view the live video stream. Guests from as far away as Australia and San Diego attended the event.

About the inNEVation Center
The inNEVation Center is a one-of-a-kind public and private collaborative workspace environment that supports Las Vegas startups, corporate success and higher education in Nevada through a variety of business, technology, political and funding networks. It was developed by Rob Roy, the founder and CEO of Switch, and the most successful technology entrepreneur in Nevada's history. The inNEVation Center provides technological thought and community leadership with the objective of advancing the Nevada and Las Vegas technology and business sectors through active industry representation and community partnerships.

About the Entrepreneurs’ Organization
The Entrepreneurs' Organization - for entrepreneurs only - is a dynamic, global network of more than 8,000 business owners in 40 countries. Founded in 1987 by a group of young entrepreneurs, EO is the catalyst that enables entrepreneurs to learn and grow from each other, leading to greater business success and an enriched personal life.