[Weebay]

There is definitely some good ideas being suggested here. I have always thought that this game must be so difficult to really get into without having someone teach you the basics.
I will randomly help out brand new players from time to time. I try to give them a brief explanation of where to start and what not to be concerned with for now. If I see they are more interested in advice than asking for a handout, then I will usually send them a small start up kit or a few bucks. Then just tell them to keep in contact with me if they need any assistance.
The concept of giving them small goals to work for would probably do a lot to help new players stick around.