A New York-area nonprofit called Takes All Types is using Facebook to better coordinate where and when people donate blood in response to shortages and crises while encouraging broader donation over all.

For those who opt in, the system will send out alerts through Facebook — as well as by phone, fax, e-mail and text message — when their blood type is needed in their area. It will also send out reminders for regular donations.

A high-technology, focused blood drive is the latest indication that Facebook, started in 2004 as a way for college students to stay in touch, has since become a place for people to link up for practically any reason, with civic-minded pursuits now playing a larger role.