The Insider.com

What Vampire Diaries fan hasn't fantasized about going on a date with Ian Somerhalder?

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Well get ready to bust out your checkbook, as the chiseled actor is auctioning a chance to have lunch with him in Atlanta, and it's all for a good cause -- all proceeds will benefit the Ian Somerhalder Foundation, specifically the organization's plans to open up an animal sanctuary.

The auction has already started and will end July 18.

"There are too many animals that are abused, mistreated, and abandoned. They've been ostracized, they have behavioral issues, and they're starving. It's just unbelievable what we've done to the animals, and I think that's why this is so important," Ian tells EW.

Related: Ian Somerhalder Named a GQ Gentleman

He also shares his plans to eventually make the sanctuary a place not just for animals, but troubled youth.

"I'm so tired of the lack of compassion in our world and watching kids grow up in it. I think it's an amazing opportunity for us to show that having compassion for one another -- and all furry, scaled, or feathered creatures -- is the only way we can progress," he says.

Pics: First Look -- Damon in Danger on 'Vampire Diares'

And Ian has a message to all you prospective bidders.

"Honestly, all I can say is thank you. I appreciate you and your generosity…. I will try not to bore you to tears."

Hmmm ... getting to see those crazy blue eyes in person pretty much makes that impossible.

Click here to place your bid!