Amplify Amplified

In Hollywood, sequels may rarely live up to the original, but Austin has always followed its own script. Tomorrow marks the return of I Live Here, I Give Here's Amplify Austin, the 24-hour giving-palooza debuted last year.

Like every successful franchise, the second annual Amplify is asking for a bigger budget. This year's goal has been cranked up to $4 million after last year's $1 million goal was easily bested by almost $1.8 million.

A few other things have changed too. This year, those eager to get a jump start can schedule their donation for March 20-21. The organizers have also added the ability to create a donor account to manage giving. And Spanish translations have been created for all of the website's main pages.

The number of participating nonprofits has increased too . Almost 500 participants are listed, ranging from animal welfare organizations to social justice groups. A full list of nonprofits is available here. Hourly "Bass Booster" awards will be given throughout the day, with four groups receiving a grand prize. Matching incentive dollars will boost individual giving.

Amplify Austin is accepting donations 6pm Thursday, March 20 through 6pm Friday, March 21.