Ning is no longer free

As I've been checking out resources to use in the classroom, Walden University makes reference to Ning. As you may have found out, Ning is no longer free. However, you can apply for sponsorship to get it for free for three years. I've applied twice now and have not heard back. Frankly, I'm tired of waiting and have started looking for alternatives. I came across this site: http://www.jonbishop.com/2010/04/9-free-ning-alternatives-and-some-open-source-solutions/ that lists 9 free alternatives to Ning. I have poked around a few of them so far and found a couple I'd like to try. There is one that even supports Wordpress blogging integration. Hopefully you all find something useful there.