Unlike every other country’s Olympic team, the government doesn't fund Team USA. Instead, it depends on the donations of everyday Americans. As the 2012 London Games approached, the USOC needed a way to inspire more citizens to participate in the Olympic Movement and contribute to the cause. RaiseOurFlag.org was created so that every American could join in the journey to London. The site gave every visitor a chance to donate, own and dedicate an actual stitch on the official flag that Team USA would carry into the Game's Opening Ceremony.