Having trouble getting AIM to send text messages on Iphone

[nashoplis]

Hello all
I was excited to try out the AIM text messaging service for the old Iphone

I have an Iphone 3G with the latest free AIM on it but I cannot get it to send any of my text messages to a phone number.

It keeps telling me
Unable to send IM

please make sure you have a network connection and try again


I have a connection to either 3G or my wifi

I can't find any sort of support on the AIM site
does anyone have a clue why it isn't working for me or where I can get a live person at AOL to help out?

thanks