Friday, December 30, 2005

Kuna site|Story page|KRCS presents USD 2.8 million check for Katrina re...11/30/2005

Kuna site|Story page|KRCS presents USD 2.8 million check for Katrina re...11/30/2005: "KRCS presents USD 2.8 million check for Katrina relief efforts
PPL-KUWAIT-HURRICANE-AID
KRCS presents USD 2.8 million check for Katrina relief efforts

By Saad Al-Ali (With photos) WASHINGTON, Nov 30 (KUNA) -- The Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) has presented a check of USD 2.8 million to the American Red Cross Society as a contribution from the 'people of Kuwait' to the relief efforts in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita that hit the southern US states this year."

Thursday, December 29, 2005

Marsalis, City Workers to Drop Ball in NYC

Marsalis, City Workers to Drop Ball in NYC: "Marsalis, City Workers to Drop Ball in NYC
Staff and agencies
29 December, 2005



By VERENA DOBNIK, 46 minutes ago

NEW YORK - Workers from city agencies that joined in the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, along with New Orleans jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, will serve as the guests of honor at the annual New Year‘s Eve bash in Times Square.

'I am grateful to Mayor Bloomberg for giving me the opportunity to show that in this season of renewal, the people of the gulf region will rebuild and rejoice once again,' said Marsalis, who organized one of the major fund-raising shows for New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina."

Congress Should Investigate the United Nations Tsunami Relief Effort

Congress Should Investigate the United Nations Tsunami Relief Effort: "Congress Should Investigate the United Nations Tsunami Relief Effort
by Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
WebMemo #952

December 28, 2005 | |

This week marks the anniversary of the tsunami disaster which struck large sections of Southeast Asia, South Asia, and East Africa on December 26, 2004. The tsunami claimed some 231,000 lives and displaced 2 million people. The disaster prompted an outpouring of humanitarian help from around the world, with an estimated total of $13.6 billion in aid pledged, including $6.16 billion in government assistance, $2.3 billion from international financial institutions, and $5.1 billion from individuals and companies.[1]



The huge international relief effort is being co-coordinated by the United Nations, and involves an astonishing 39 U.N. agencies, from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

"

TheInd.com - "Local nonprofit organizations learn to operate in a financial landscape altered by back-to-back natural disasters.

TheInd.com - News | Business | Culture - Weekly - Lafayette LA: "Local nonprofit organizations learn to operate in a financial landscape altered by back-to-back natural disasters.
By Shala Carlson | 12/28/2005
Printer Friendly Version Send a Letter to the Editor

Director Kimberly Jones and Executive Director Bill Charbonnet of Lafayette Catholic Service Centers are concerned that programs such as St. Joseph Diner and Opelousas’ New Life Center could suffer if donors are tapped out after making hurricane relief contributions.
Photo by Terri Fensel

There was a time not all that long ago when the line of people seeking assistance from Lafayette Catholic Service Centers wrapped its way around the organization’s St. John Street offices. Most days, displaced families — many of them left without homes and resources by hurricanes Katrina and Rita — began queuing up as early as 5 a.m. Some slept in the parking lot or on the sidewalk out front to make sure they would receive a Wal-Mart gift card or help with filling a prescription that day.

The long lines aren’t there any more, but Executive Director Bill Charbonnet and Director Kimberly Jones say things are still far from normal. Evacuee needs have been substantial over the past four months, and Lafayette Catholic Service Centers has provided more than $300,000 in assistance to more than 5,000 families. “As soon as we receive it, we’re spending it,” says Jones, who points out that the center is deducting no administrative costs from hurricane donations. “Every dollar we get is distributed.”"

WAVY.COM - Charity puts tsunami relief at $8.8 million

WAVY.COM - Charity puts tsunami relief at $8.8 million: "Charity puts tsunami relief at $8.8 million

RICHMOND, Va. A year after the Asian tsunami, Christian Children's Fund says it has completed eight-point-eight (m) million dollars in recovery and rebuilding efforts in tsunami-affected areas of Sri Lanka, India and Indonesia.
The Richmond-based charity says it will continue its tsunami recovery programs in these countries for two more years, using nine-point-two (m) million dollars remaining from tsunami donations and grants. C-C-F says it will focus on continued reconstruction and other programs."

Christmas in New Orleans

Christmas in New Orleans: "Christmas in New Orleans

Ron Riekki

For months I had emailed and called agencies seeing if I could volunteer for the Katrina Relief efforts. None of the organizations answered my queries, except for one generic mass email I received from Habitat for Humanity. So instead I had a friend of mine, Jay Melder who lives in Baton Rouge, make some calls. He, of course, living there, was much more successful. Understandably, several of the organizations in Louisiana are too busy to respond to a faceless email from the Midwest. They need people that are in the immediate vicinity. I wasn’t. So I figured if I went on my own I would be there and it would be tough to turn me away. Such was the case.

As soon as my flight got in, I called Volunteer Baton Rouge and they gave me several numbers to call. The first was the Salvation Army, but they were fully staffed with volunteers for a job that involved packing lunches. I tried the next number—Catholic Community Services. They were interested. The job was a dream job for a volunteer, especially one who used to fantasize about working at Santa’s Workshop in the North Pole back when he was a preteen. The job: organize and deliver presents to Baton Rouge’s poor and displaced children from New Orleans."

49 indicted in Red Cross scam - Nightly News with Brian Williams - MSNBC.com

49 indicted in Red Cross scam - Nightly News with Brian Williams - MSNBC.com: "49 indicted in Red Cross scam
Temporary workers at Katrina call centers were allegedly stealing from assistance fund

By Tom Costello
Correspondent
NBC News
Updated: 8:04 p.m. ET Dec. 27, 2005

WASHINGTON D.C. - It’s a case of Katrina fraud that prosecutors say just keeps getting bigger— as much as $400,000 stolen from the Red Cross, and so far, 49 people under indictment."

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

Spero News | Website opens tsunami aid to public scrutiny

Spero News | Website opens tsunami aid to public scrutiny: "PHUKET, Thailand (IPS) - As survivors in Asia struggle to rebuild after last December's devastating tsunami, a new window of hope has opened in cyberspace for four affected countries.

A website is offering comprehensive details of how much money has poured into Thailand, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and the Maldives, as against the billions of dollars pledged by the international community in response to the unprecedented natural disaster."

Karen Woods on Charity on National Review Online

Karen Woods on Charity on National Review Online: "tis the season for giving, but let's do it wisely.




Congress, concerned that all those hurricane-relief dollars flowing south could pinch charitable donations elsewhere, fashioned the Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act of 2005. The law generated unprecedented opportunity for nonprofit giving this year. That's good news for the 321,000 nonprofits with gross receipts over $25,000. But it's even better news for the majority of U. S. charities — 840,000 of them — with annual revenue of less than $25,000. The strategy is working: More than $3 billion in private donated relief from ordinary Americans has made this a record breaking year for giving.

You always hope that when Americans offer such an outpouring of generosity, that the money will be used effectively. Recent history isn't comforting. The Chronicle of Philanthropy analyzed the torrent of aid that followed the tsunamis last year in South Asia. The paper concluded that 'signs of progress remain rare as the calamity's one year anniversary approaches. Lack of coordination among charities and government agencies, as well as misguided gestures by well-intentioned donors, volunteers, and charities, are key reasons.'"

Asia, Far East, news and analysis Times Online, The Times, Sunday Times

Asia, Far East, news and analysis Times Online, The Times, Sunday Times: "

Asia

The Times December 26, 2005

�244m donations are still unused in charity accounts
By Daniel McGrory
BRITAIN’S leading charities have banked twice as much money from last year’s tsunami appeal as they have spent so far in those countries ravaged by the waves. The public donated a record �372 million, but at the last count the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has spent only �128 million.

Aid workers explain that the overwhelming public response presented them with a challenge almost as daunting as coping with the world’s biggest relief operation. Beverley Cohen, of the DEC, which embraces a dozen of Britain’s best-known aid agencies, said: “Cash was coming in faster than we could spend it. We would have loved to have housed everybody by now, and have every child back in school, but this was never going to be a quick fix."

One year later, wrath of tsunami is recalled

One year later, wrath of tsunami is recalled: "One year later, wrath of tsunami is recalled

United in grief, survivors remember loved ones swept away

December 27, 2005

ASSOCIATED PRESS


BANDA ACEH, Indonesia -- Survivors wept and prayed beside mass graves and at beachside memorials Monday, marking one year since earthquake-churned walls of water crashed ashore in a dozen nations, sweeping away hundreds of thousands of lives and uniting the world in grief and horror.

Mourners filled mosques in Indonesia's shattered Aceh province, the region hit hardest. Candlelight vigils in chilly Sweden remembered citizens lost during sunny holidays. An achingly personal tribute -- a bouquet of white roses -- stuck in the sand in Thailand."

A wave that reshaped global response - Yahoo! News

A wave that reshaped global response - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON - One year ago - on Dec. 26, 2004 - a magnitude 9.15 earthquake with an epicenter off the coast of Indonesia triggered a tsunami of epic proportions affecting 12 Indian Ocean countries, killing more than 225,000 people and displacing another 1.7 million. It also set off an unprecedented international response that may prove to be a model for future disaster relief.
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The global reaction to the tsunami was immediate and extensive, as governments, militaries, the
United Nations, and hundreds of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) mobilized. Relief operations proceeded quickly and effectively, providing food, clean water, health services, and temporary shelter for hundreds of thousands of people. The remarkable response prevented the widely anticipated 'second tsunami' of disease and malnutrition."

Business: If disaster strikes, U.S. companies are there

Business: If disaster strikes, U.S. companies are there: "If disaster strikes, U.S. companies are there

In a year of global devastation, more companies are opening their wallets to help, which also boosts their images.

By Associated Press
Published December 25, 2005

NEW YORK - The killer tsunamis, hurricanes and earthquakes of the past year have led to more aid from U.S. companies, which are increasingly reaching out to donate money and supplies and provide expertise, training and services.

Awash in cash as a result of the high-flying economy, corporations and executives' private foundations can respond faster, helped by the overseas presence of many U.S. businesses that often see an opportunity to advance their strategic interests. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the devastating Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami of Dec. 26, 2004, triggered the largest corporate aid effort for an international disaster and is second only to the $750-million collected after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks."

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

courant.com | Role In Relief Rising

courant.com | Role In Relief Rising: "Role In Relief Rising
U.S. Businesses Giving Worldwide In Response To Natural Disasters
December 21, 2005
By VIOREL URMA, Associated Press

The killer tsunamis, hurricanes and earthquakes of the past year have led to more aid from U.S. companies, which are increasingly reaching out to donate money and supplies and provide expertise, training and services.

Awash in cash as a result of the high-flying economy, corporations and executives' private foundations can now respond faster, helped by the overseas presence of many U.S. businesses, which often see an opportunity to advance their strategic interests. "

Generosity Inc.

Generosity Inc.: "Most Washingtonians haven't heard of Bay St. Louis, Miss. But down in that hurricane-ravaged area, I suspect they are feeling pretty warmly these days toward our region's business community.

Three weeks after Katrina struck, the Loudoun Medical Group, the largest physicians group in Northern Virginia, teamed up with the Loudoun Foundation and a dozen other local businesses -- including America Online, Independence Air, Inova Health System and Seitz Technologies -- to open a medical relief mission at the old train depot in Bay St. Louis, providing free medical services and medications. Doctors, nurses and administrators from Loudoun and Fairfax counties, along with other volunteers, have been rotating through the community ever since, treating more than 8,000 people."

Tuesday, December 20, 2005

CBC News: Tsunami recovery 'impressive,' says Oxfam

CBC News: Tsunami recovery 'impressive,' says Oxfam: "Tsunami recovery 'impressive,' says Oxfam
Last Updated Tue, 20 Dec 2005 08:52:16 EST
CBC News

More than half of the people affected by last year's tsunami are back at work, and economies are fast returning to normal, according to a new report by Oxfam International.

The report focuses on the recovery that has occurred throughout the year, and offers some surprising numbers."

New Zealand, world, sport, business & entertainment news on Stuff.co.nz: Where did our tsunami donations go?

New Zealand, world, sport, business & entertainment news on Stuff.co.nz: Where did our tsunami donations go?: "Where did our tsunami donations go?
21 December 2005
By CHALPAT SONTI

Less than half of the $94 million New Zealanders donated for the Boxing Day tsunami relief effort has been spent, as hundreds of thousands of victims continue to live in rotten tents and shacks.

New Zealand and other countries which contributed to a massive worldwide response are watching helplessly as rebuilding continues at a snail's pace, a year after the waves struck.

There are also claims that private relief agencies have stashed some of the money for future natural disasters."

Volunteers Clear Out New Orleans Synagogue - Yahoo! News

Volunteers Clear Out New Orleans Synagogue - Yahoo! News: "Standing on moldy and debris-covered floors, college students cleaning up a Jewish temple paused Monday for a prayer service — the first at Beth
Israel Synagogue since Hurricane Katrina flooded it with more than 10 feet of water three months ago.
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The dozen or so students were among roughly 50 from colleges across the country who have come to New Orleans to spend their winter break helping with recovery efforts at the century-old synagogue, as well as at area homes and schools left damaged by the storm."

Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Analysis: Giving something back

Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Analysis: Giving something back: "As the first anniversary of the south Asian tsunami approaches, Ken Burnett looks at why the Disasters Emergency Committee is so poor at giving aid donors feedback and encouraging further giving "

Charity coalition seeks donors

Charity coalition seeks donors: "Charity coalition seeks donors
Fast-track rebuilding city by giving, it says
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
By Michael Perlstein
Staff writer

Over lunch last month, movers and shakers from six local charities were surveying the vast humanitarian needs of post-Katrina New Orleans and pondering where to focus their efforts. The answer they came up with: themselves. The plan: to join forces to regroup and announce they're back in business.

At a news conference Monday, representatives of about 20 nonprofit agencies stood in front of a burned-out Catholic Charities complex on Carrollton Avenue to draw attention to their plight. Operating under the name 'Rebuild by Giving,' the consortium of civic and charitable groups said their most important message is, simply: 'We're here.'"

Monday, December 19, 2005

Donated Bookmobile Bound for Miss. Town - Yahoo! News

Donated Bookmobile Bound for Miss. Town - Yahoo! News: "27-foot gift box on wheels filled with thousands of books is headed for a Mississippi town that lost its library during Hurricane Katrina.
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The bookmobile is scheduled to arrive Monday in Pearlington, Miss. It will serve as a temporary replacement for the town's library, which was gutted in the Aug. 29 storm."

Top News Article | Reuters.co.uk

Top News Article | Reuters.co.uk: "Tsunami response was world's best ever: UN
Mon Dec 19, 2005 4:11 AM GMT170
Printer Friendly | Email Article | RSS


By Emma Batha

LONDON (Reuters) - As the world marks the first anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami, millions of people who dug into their pockets in an unprecedented outpouring of generosity will be wondering how their money has been spent.

Some may be surprised to discover that 12 months on the vast majority of the 1.8 million people who lost their homes in the December 26 disaster are still in temporary accommodation."

Newsroom - Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick

Newsroom - Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick: "Nonprofits Divided on Impact of Hurricane Relief Giving

InsideIndianaBusiness.com Report

12/19/2005 8:06:28 AM
A study conducted by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University shows a difference in perception on how giving to hurricane relief efforts is affecting fundraising for nonprofit organizations. "

Hattiesburg American - www.hattiesburgamerican.com - Hattiesburg, Miss.

Hattiesburg American - www.hattiesburgamerican.com - Hattiesburg, Miss.:
snip snip>
"While Congress has raised concerns regarding some Katrina spending, experts say it's too early to determine how all the donations are being used.

'It's kind of hard to hit a moving target,' said Peter Dobkin Hall, a lecturer at the Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations at Harvard. 'Eventually, people will get down to that.'

Of the nearly $3 billion given, the American Red Cross has raised $1.82 billion - nearly two-thirds of all donations.

Hall attributed that to the fact the Red Cross is an iconic organization people hold up and admire.

But the nonprofit faces plenty of problems with Congress demanding answers to the agency's Katrina response and its president, Marsha Evans, resigning, Hall said. 'Any organization that's been through four CEOs in 10 years is a dysfunctional organization.'"

Fredericksburg.com - Putting faith to work

Fredericksburg.com - Putting faith to work: "SLIDELL, La.--Across the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Coast, the faithful gather from every corner of the country to help strangers in Louisiana and Mississippi in their time of need.

Among those answering God's call are dozens of volunteers from the Fredericksburg area. They've loaded up church buses and vans, personal cars, business vehicles--even tractor-trailers--to do their part in the biggest disaster-relief effort in American history."

A Hole in the World Aid Web / Lessons learned in modern disasters point to gaps in the charity net

A Hole in the World Aid Web / Lessons learned in modern disasters point to gaps in the charity net:
snip snip>
"Since Sept. 11, 2001, when disaster hit home in a way that Americans will never forget, catastrophe has been in the limelight, our response to natural and man-made emergencies as a world community, as a nation and as individuals, severely tested. 'The events of 9/11 shook us to our core,' says Daniel Borochoff, founder and president of the American Institute of Philanthropy, a charity watchdog and information service that evaluates the efficiency, accountability and governance of nonprofit organizations. If, as a nation, we tend to be insular, maybe even isolationist, that tendency came to an end with Sept. 11, and our deepest concerns were awakened, our most profound convictions challenged. And while the scope and proportion of recent calamity, from terrorism to tsunamis to hurricanes to quakes to humanitarian crises, is staggering, the challenges aren't new, they've just become more visible.

Addressing these challenges is a web of world aid, i"

Friday, December 16, 2005

MGM Mirage Bracelets Raise Money for Hurricane Victims - RGT Online

PRESS RELEASE

MGM Mirage Bracelets Raise Money for Hurricane Victims - RGT Online: "MGM Mirage Bracelets Raise Money for Hurricane Victims

LAS VEGAS – (PRESS RELEASE) -- Thanks to MGM Mirage, holiday shoppers can now find a good stocking stuffer and contribute to a worthwhile cause at the same time.

To help its employees in Mississippi recover from this year's hurricanes, MGM Mirage announced today that the company is selling specially designed awareness bracelets saying 'Rebuilding Together' at all its local retail outlets on the Las Vegas Strip. The bracelets cost $1.50 each.

'We are now selling bracelets at all MGM Mirage retail outlets to support our Katrina Recovery Fund,' said Merlinda Gallegos, director of corporate philanthropy. 'These bracelets are good stocking stuffers that help people do a good deed at the same time.'

Gallegos said all proceeds go to the MGM Mirage Katrina Recovery Fund that benefits the roughly 3,400 employees of Beau Rivage, the MGM Mirage resort in Biloxi, Miss. that has been closed since being damaged by Hurricane Katrina in late August. The company contributed $1 million to establish the fund following the devastation caused by the hurricane and pledged also to match its employee contributions 'dollar for dollar' through Dec. 31."

Burnsville couple spends eight weeks giving aid in hurricane-ravaged Biloxi, Miss.

Burnsville couple spends eight weeks giving aid in hurricane-ravaged Biloxi, Miss.: "Burnsville couple spends eight weeks giving aid in hurricane-ravaged Biloxi, Miss.

Posted: 12/16/05

by Andrew Miller
Thisweek Newspapers

They knew they wanted to help.

That they didn’t have a set destination didn’t matter much.

Tom and Mary Eichen began the trek south to assist with Hurricane Katrina relief efforts before they even knew to which city they were headed.

On Sept. 12, two weeks after Katrina hit, the Burnsville couple packed up their truck with tools, food, water and other supplies and set off for Mississippi."

Senate OKs Katrina bill, casinos get reprieve - Yahoo! News

Senate OKs Katrina bill, casinos get reprieve - Yahoo! News: "The Senate approved a revised tax incentive package to help rebuild the hurricane-devastated Gulf Coast on Friday after resolving differences with the House of Representatives over items such as breaks for casinos.
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Under a deal with House leaders brokered by Sen. Trent Lott (news, bio, voting record), a Mississippi Republican, the measure will allow casinos to reap bonus depreciation incentives for all facilities except gaming equipment and gaming room construction."

Children's Art Showcases Katrina's Effects - Yahoo! News

Children's Art Showcases Katrina's Effects - Yahoo! News: "Children's Art Showcases Katrina's Effects

By JUAN A. LOZANO, Associated Press Writer 1 hour, 31 minutes ago

HOUSTON - The drawings, done mostly in crayon and marker, are full of bleak images — bodies floating, floodwaters ripping loved ones away, children crying red tears. But often they contain glimmers of hope, too, such as a blue sky, a shining sun, a rainbow.

One teen drew a self-portrait in which he wore a shirt that read, 'I survived Katrina.'

'It was the first thing I drew,' said Reginald Otkin, a 15-year-old from New Orleans. 'That was a picture of me telling people I had survived Katrina. To me, the hurricane was a minor setback and people just have to take time and get a little bit of their life back step by step.'"

The Chronicle, 12/15/2005: Donations for Victims of South Asian Earthquake Exceed $50-Million

The Chronicle, 12/15/2005: Donations for Victims of South Asian Earthquake Exceed $50-Million: "Donations for Victims of South Asian Earthquake Exceed $50-Million

By Caroline Preston

Donations to help survivors of the earthquake that struck South Asia in October have topped $50-million, but the pace of giving has slowed even as relief workers prepare for additional challenges in providing aid during the winter months.

The 7.6-magnitude quake killed about 73,000 people and left another 3 million people homeless, many of whom now face freezing temperatures and illnesses brought on by the cold and poor sanitation. Relief groups are struggling to provide food and shelter before winter weather prevents them from reaching the victims."

Woman gives biggest bulk for disaster victims

Woman gives biggest bulk for disaster victims: "Woman gives biggest bulk for disaster victims
By Jiang Zhuqing (China Daily)
Updated: 2005-12-16 06:04

One of China's richest women has donated 1 million yuan (US$123,000) worth of aid to a disaster relief fund - its biggest ever bulk donation since the charity drive was launched.

President Hu Jintao set up the drive to aid victims of disasters across China."

Reuters AlertNet - UN names ex-President Bush envoy on Pakistan quake

Reuters AlertNet - UN names ex-President Bush envoy on Pakistan quake: "N names ex-President Bush envoy on Pakistan quake
16 Dec 2005 00:47:48 GMT
Source: Reuters

By Matthew Robinson

UNITED NATIONS, Dec 15 (Reuters) - Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush was appointed special U.N. envoy for Pakistan earthquake relief on Thursday and said he would use the role to ensure donations are converted into concrete aid for victims."

Stanford Social Innovation Review: Forum: Where's the money?

Stanford Social Innovation Review: Forum: Where's the money?: ": Where's the money?
Category: Philanthropic Strategy
Posted: December 15, 2005 06:14 PM

Two weeks ago, I visited the northern coast of Aceh, Indonesia, curious to see not only how people are faring one year after the tsunami, but also how NGOs are spending the largest pool of humanitarian funds ever raised. On both counts, my report is the same: Not well.

After one day in Banda Aceh, I spent four more driving through the districts of Pidie and Bireuen. Even the view from the highway bore witness to the ongoing suffering of the Acehnese. Where thriving marketplaces and traditional houses once stood, there are now tent cities and government-built barracks. The skeletons of washed-up boats and cars still sit on the roads’ shoulders as far as two miles inland. Schools are boarded up. Fishing ponds bleed into each other and into the sea. Even in Banda Aceh, the province’s proud capital, 50% of the surviving population is still homeless. In rural villages, that number climbs to 70%.

When is more help coming? I didn’t know what to tell..."

Thursday, December 15, 2005

'Katrina' Dolphins to Go to Bahamas - Yahoo! News

'Katrina' Dolphins to Go to Bahamas - Yahoo! News: "ACKSON, Miss. - Several dolphins that were swept out to sea by Hurricane Katrina will soon be reunited at a resort in the Bahamas.

Atlantis, a resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, will take on 17 dolphins from the Marine Life Oceanarium — eight of which were rescued from open water in September."

OMB Watch - A Year of Attacks on Advocacy, Flawed Anti-Terrorism Measures

OMB Watch - A Year of Attacks on Advocacy, Flawed Anti-Terrorism Measures: "A Year of Attacks on Advocacy, Flawed Anti-Terrorism Measures

According to a survey of Louisiana residents released last month by Louisiana State University, faith-based organizations and nonprofits got higher marks than government for their hurricane recovery efforts. While not surprising given the abysmal government response, the findings raise larger questions about the role of the federal government in providing resources to the nonprofit sector. Nonprofits face major long-term budget challenges at the federal level that will continue to make it more difficult to serve the people and missions they exist to serve."

Reuters AlertNet - China upset by U.S. charity's soiled donations

Reuters AlertNet - China upset by U.S. charity's soiled donations: "China upset by U.S. charity's soiled donations
15 Dec 2005 08:59:18 GMT
Source: Reuters
BEIJING, Dec 15 (Reuters) - China was upset by a shipment of donations from a U.S. church to Chinese orphans containing expired medical equipment and stained bedding, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday.

China Charity had contacted the donor, the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah, after four containers were found to contain the goods which also included used surgical clothing, Xinhua news agency said."

Xinhua - English

Xinhua - English: "Aid seen as 'charity with strings attached'
www.chinaview.cn 2005-12-15 16:52:12

HONG KONG, Dec. 15 (Xinhuanet) -- Rich members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) offered new assistance to the least developed countries (LDCs) at the organization's ongoing Sixth Ministerial Conference, but it is seen as 'charity with strings attached.'

The generous packages of 'Aid for Trade,' offered by some industrialized countries at the Hong Kong meeting, 'sweeten a deal in order to entice developing countries into accepting a bad deal,' said Yashpal Tandon, executive director of the Geneva-based South Center, an inter-governmental policy and research think-tank."

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

TSUNAMI IMPACT: Aid Groups Take Stock One Year On

TSUNAMI IMPACT: Aid Groups Take Stock One Year On: "TSUNAMI IMPACT:
Aid Groups Take Stock One Year On
Stefania Bianchi

BRUSSELS, Dec 14 (IPS) - Almost a year after the tsunami, two of Europe's largest humanitarian and development aid networks say the European Union must take significant steps to ensure a sustained recovery in those countries still suffering the aftermath of the disaster.

Concord and the Voluntary Organisations in Cooperation in Emergencies (Voice) say the humanitarian response to the tsunami disaster has been timely and adequate, but that improvements can be made for future disasters. "

Katrina Evacuees Decry Mardi Gras Plans - Yahoo! News

Katrina Evacuees Decry Mardi Gras Plans - Yahoo! News: "ome Hurricane Katrina refugees stuck in hotel rooms and unfamiliar surroundings across the United States are in no mood to party, and they are decrying the city's plans to hold a Mardi Gras celebration in February.
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'This is not the time for fun. This is the time to put people's lives back on track,' said Lillie Antoine, a 51-year-old refugee stuck in Tulsa, Okla."

Giving for hurricane relief exceeds Sept. 11 contributions

Giving for hurricane relief exceeds Sept. 11 contributions: "Giving for hurricane relief exceeds Sept. 11 contributions
$2.96 billion sets record for disaster relief giving

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Dec. 13, 2005

INDIANAPOLIS -- Charitable giving to aid victims of Gulf Coast Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma has now reached more than $2.96 billion, setting what is believed to be a record for U.S. private philanthropic giving for a single disaster relief and recovery effort, reports the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Total giving in response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 reached just over $2.8 billion, according to a report compiled by The Foundation Center.

'When disaster strikes, Americans instinctively want to help, and when the tragedy hits close to home, the response is especially strong,' said Gene Tempel, executive director of the Center on Philanthropy. 'The vast scope of the long-term recovery and rebuilding and the fact that many Americans from across the country have gone to the area to help and returned with stories of tremendous needs mean it's likely that we will see contributions continue for some time to come.'"

The Connecticut Post Online - News

The Connecticut Post Online - News: "Easton boy, 8, sharing his birthday with kids in crisis
AARON LEO aleo@ctpost.com

BRIDGEPORT — Forget the cake, the presents and the piata.

Eight-year-old Blake Rozelle has used his own birthday gifts to spread cheer to other people.

The second-grader at Samuel Staples Elementary School in Easton spent $130 he was given for his birthday to buy 22 teddy bears and donated them Tuesday to help calm children in crisis situations.

'I wanted to share my birthday,' the youngster said at the Brooklawn Avenue headquarters of the Southeastern Fairfield County chapter of the American Red Cross, which will give the donated bears to youngsters displaced from their homes by fire or other emergencies."

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

New Orleans CityBusiness -- New Orleans CityBusiness-Boggs to serve as nonprofit ambassador

New Orleans CityBusiness -- New Orleans CityBusiness: "Boggs to serve as nonprofit ambassador
By April Capochino

2005-12-12 1:24 PM CST

NEW ORLEANS — Former Congresswoman Lindy Boggs will serve as the official ambassador of the Unified Nonprofits of Greater New Orleans, a post-Katrina collaboration of nonprofits.

Boggs was the first woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, served as a U.S. ambassador to the Vatican and is the mother of news analyst Cokie Roberts.

Early today, she spoke to a room of about 30 nonprofit leaders at the Ashe Cultural Arts Center on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in Central City.

'We were trying to think of someone who could represent what the nonprofit sector does and someone suggested her name, which made complete sense,' said Lisa Kaichen, who heads the group."

village voice > news > Note From New Orleans by Anya Kamenetz

village voice > news > Note From New Orleans by Anya Kamenetz: "But in the past three weeks here, the following events have taken place in defiance of those words:

At least a thousand people turned up to an exhibition and signing of a photography book to benefit the city at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art downtown. Thanks to private philanthropy, the region's best botanical garden, at City Park, in mostly empty Lakeview, was replanted with camellias and strung with lights for a smaller version of the annual Celebration in the Oaks, where mobs of Catholic schoolchildren sang carols and drank cocoa as a loudspeaker blared “The Cajun Night Before Christmas.” It was absolute gridlock at the reopening of the uptown Audubon Zoo, where children lined up to buy Roman candy from the donkey cart and quieted down to hear the orangutan whistle on cue. Firemen and policemen and church groups and the 'hippies from Mississippi' and forestry activists from Oregon cooked and gave away hundreds of Thanksgiving dinners from the Ninth Ward to Jefferson Parish."

Monday, December 12, 2005

Look for licensed Katrina relief agencies

Look for licensed Katrina relief agencies: "ook for licensed Katrina charities
Majors work with locals, but watch for swindlers
By Russ Britt, MarketWatch
Last Update: 12:01 AM ET Dec. 12, 2005
Disable MW live quotes | E-mail it | Print | Alert | Reprint |

NEW ORLEANS (MarketWatch) - Those who have seen the devastation in and around Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and want to donate to the storm's relief effort would do best by donating to local charities, but major groups such as the United Way and Salvation Army are working with those organizations to get the help where it's needed.


Also in the series:
Due diligence: How to research a charity's effectiveness

Rising pay: Heads of charities see compensation hikes

TRADING CENTER




And experts say that donors should keep an eye out for swindlers that have sprung up on the Internet, trying to capitalize on the nation's worst-ever natural disaster.

While federal aid is slow in getting to the region, charitable donations already have set records. However, in a disaster of this magnitude -- that drove as many as 400,000 residents from New Orleans -- much more charitable giving will be needed, particularly if the federal assistance originally promised doesn't make its way to the region.

'It's record-breaking in the amount that has been raised thus far,' said Stacy Palmer, editor of The Chronicle of Philanthropy, a publication that monitors charitable spending. 'But I think the question is what kind of aid they're going to see from the government.'"

Porterville Recorder

Porterville Recorder: "Porterville residents opened up their hearts - and in some cases their wallets - in a altruistic display the days and weeks following Hurricane Katrina's fury.

Nationwide, the American Red Cross estimates that Katrina relief efforts will exceed $2 billion, with financial assistance to approximately 1.2 million families, or 3.7 million survivors, according to the Web site."

The Hutchinson News, Hutchinson, Kans. | Local News

The Hutchinson News, Hutchinson, Kans. | Local News: "gencies: Charitable giving decreasing

By Mary Clarkin

The Hutchinson News

mclarkin@hutchnews.com

Results of a national survey in November indicated charitable giving during the holiday season could take a downturn.

Some social service agency officials in Reno County are finding, unhappily, the survey appears to be accurate.

As of the start of December, contributions this year to New Beginnings Inc., 100 East 2nd, were down 24 percent from a year ago, according to Director Shara Gonzales.

The recent annual Stuff the Bus promotion that collects items for domestic abuse victims and families generated fewer donations than last year, said Candace Dixon, head of the Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Center, 400 West 2nd."

AP Wire | 12/11/2005 | Red Cross, state officials look into Katrina pins

AP Wire | 12/11/2005 | Red Cross, state officials look into Katrina pins: "Red Cross, state officials look into Katrina pins

Associated Press

BEAUFORT, S.C. - An Indiana company that sells pins and pledges more than half the money raised to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts is drawing attention from the American Red Cross and the South Carolina secretary of state.

Novelty Inc., the pin's manufacturer, pledges a dollar from the pins' $1.99 price to the American Red Cross.

However, Red Cross spokeswoman Sarah Marchetti said the organization does not have a contract with the Greenfield, Ind.-based company and has not received a donation connected with pin sales. She said the Red Cross is investigating the company."

Wednesday, December 07, 2005

TheJacksonChannel.com - News - Harlem Globetrotters To Appear This Weekend In Jackson County

TheJacksonChannel.com - News - Harlem Globetrotters To Appear This Weekend In Jackson County: "Harlem Globetrotters To Appear This Weekend In Jackson County

POSTED: 7:20 am CST December 7, 2005
UPDATED: 7:33 am CST December 7, 2005

MOSS POINT, Miss. -- The Harlem Globetrotters will be on the Mississippi Gulf Coast this weekend to entertain victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Western Union partnered with America's Second Harvest of Chicago, Bay Area Food Bank in Mobile, Ala., and a Jackson County church to bring the team to Moss Point.

Officials said the Globetrotters will bring their comical and athletic performance to the city to raise the spirits of Mississippians affected by the Aug. 29 hurricane."

UK Fundraising | News | CAF launches new Gift Aid Charity Voucher

UK Fundraising | News | CAF launches new Gift Aid Charity Voucher: "CAF (Charities Aid Foundation) has teamed up with St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and York Minster to create a revolutionary new Gift Aid Charity Voucher.

The face value of each voucher includes tax already reclaimed from HM Revenue & Customs through Gift Aid. So for £100, UK taxpayers can buy a book of 20 Gift Aid Charity Vouchers worth a total of £122.40 to distribute to their favourite charities whenever they choose. The vouchers were developed initially to help churches enable their parishioners to make tax-efficient donations into the collecting plate."

Katrina's Emotional Damage Lingers

Katrina's Emotional Damage Lingers: "Katrina's Emotional Damage Lingers
Mental Health Experts Say Impact Is Far Beyond What They've Ever Faced

By Ceci Connolly
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 7, 2005; Page A03

NEW ORLEANS -- 'I've been thinking the last couple days the best thing to do is die.'

The man, speaking on a dull monotone, was slumped in a chair inside the steamy convention center here, waiting to see a doctor. He didn't want to come to the makeshift hospital, but a friend insisted."

ExxonMobil and Its Employees and Retirees Contribute More Than $15 Million to United Way in Houston -- Baytown Areas

PRESS RELEASE

ExxonMobil and Its Employees and Retirees Contribute More Than $15 Million to United Way in Houston -- Baytown Areas: "ExxonMobil and Its Employees and Retirees Contribute More Than $15 Million to United Way in Houston -- Baytown Areas

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 6, 2005--ExxonMobil announced today it will contribute $10,777,467 in cash to the United Way in the Houston and Baytown areas following completion of its 2005 employee and retiree campaign. The funds will assist those benefiting from services provided by the nonprofit and its affiliated agencies. Of that amount, $9,540,911 will address needs of the United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast, and some $1,236,555 will benefit the United Way of Baytown.

The company contributed an additional $4.9 million through ExxonMobil Volunteer Involvement Program grants to various United Way affiliated agencies, gifts-in-kind donations, and corporate loaned executives and administrative personnel to assist with the heavy work load at already burdened social service agencies. Also included in this amount are the $500,000 cash donation ExxonMobil made to the United Way Katrina Relief Fund and the $500,000 donation to the Houston Chapter of the American Red Cross, a United Way affiliate, to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina who came to the Houston area seeking assistance."

Tuesday, December 06, 2005

Communications breakdown

Communications breakdown: "Communications breakdown
First responders look for new ways to keep communications flowing in emergencies

Feds rush mobile communications to aid relief efforts [Federal Computer Week, Sept. 5, 2005]

Disasters were not an e-gov priority [Federal Computer Week, Sept. 12, 2005]

Congress pushes for more resilient telecom [Federal Computer Week, Sept. 26, 2005]
First responder communications

What worked:

* Interconnection devices that bridge two-way radio communications with incompatible handsets, and landline and wireless phones.
* Portable communications gear that uses voice-over-IP technology to send voice over data networks, including satellite links.
* Paging and two-way messaging that sometimes helped emergency response teams communicate when voice systems failed.

San Francisco Examiner: Business

San Francisco Examiner: Business: "Bobbi Silten took on her new role as chief of the Gap Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the San Francisco clothing retailer, just one week after Hurricane Katrina hit.

“My transition has been a rather rapid one,” said Silten, who set aside her first-week plans in order to dive right in to relief efforts.

Gap Inc. (GPS) donated to the American Red Cross, sponsoring a double match for employee contributions. In addition, the company helped 1,300 employees displaced by the Hurricane in Louisiana and Mississippi with pay, housing, clothing and job-placement assistance."

Monday, December 05, 2005

Buccaneers - News

snip snip>>>

Buccaneers - News: "Actually, they were literally money plays, as well. Barber had previously pledged to donate specific sums of money to the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts for every “big play” he made against the Saints in two games this year. He estimates that his three interceptions and eight tackles will lead to a donation of about $9,000."

ASU student offers Pakistan quake aid

ASU student offers Pakistan quake aid: "ASU student offers Pakistan quake aid

Dan Shearer
The Arizona Republic
Dec. 3, 2005 12:00 AM

Zach Makawi knows he's about to step into something big.

He just wants to be sure he's ready for it.

The 22-year-old Arizona State University student is joining about 20 other Valley men and 150 from throughout the United States who are headed to northern Pakistan to build shelters for the victims of a devastating October earthquake. He left today. "

Friday, December 02, 2005

Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season - Yahoo! News

Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season - Yahoo! News: "Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season

1 hour, 46 minutes ago

MIAMI (AFP) - Tropical Storm Epsilon turned into the 14th Atlantic hurricane of the record-breaking year Friday, two days after the official end of the storm season."

Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season - Yahoo! News

Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season - Yahoo! News: "Epsilon extends record Atlantic hurricane season

1 hour, 46 minutes ago

MIAMI (AFP) - Tropical Storm Epsilon turned into the 14th Atlantic hurricane of the record-breaking year Friday, two days after the official end of the storm season."

news - UN Seeks Record $4.7 Billion For Humanitarian Crises In 2006

news - UN Seeks Record $4.7 Billion For Humanitarian Crises In 2006: "UN Seeks Record $4.7 Billion For Humanitarian Crises In 2006

/noticias.info/ The United Nations appealed Wednesday for a record $4.7 billion to ease major humanitarian crises around the world in 2006, with about a third slated for Sudan and the conflict in its Darfur region, reports The Associated Press.

The UN has never asked for so much money in its initial appeal to start the year. In the past, the UN traditionally split away major disasters and crises for their own fundraising. The appeal, which covers 31 million people mainly in Africa and Southeast Asia, is worth the equivalent of 48 hours of worldwide military spending, the UN said. Countries covered include a host of African nations that have long been in crisis, including Chad, Congo, Liberia, Somalia, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Also on the list are Russia's breakaway region of Chechnya, the Palestinian territories, Colombia and Nepal. The $1.5 billion sought for Sudan reflects the gravity of the problem in Darfur, where humanitarian work is threatened by continued clashes between government-backed Arab militias and rebel groups, UN relief coordinator Jan Egeland said."

Storm victims praise churches - Nation/Politics - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Storm victims praise churches - Nation/Politics - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper: "Storm victims praise churches

By Audrey Hudson
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
December 2, 2005

Louisiana residents gave churches higher marks than government agencies in responding to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and most prefer that the federal government control rebuilding funds rather than local officials, according to a Louisiana State University study.
On a scale of one (not effective) to 10 (very effective), residents gave churches the highest mark of 8.1, and New Orleans city agencies and state agencies received the lowest rating of 4.6. "

Thursday, December 01, 2005

Hurricanes Katrina & Rita Web Archive

Hurricanes Katrina & Rita Web Archive: "Hurricanes Katrina &
Rita Web Archive


Keyword Search
Complete List of Crawled Seeds
11alive.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=69477"

Chron.com | 'Donor fatigue' impacts Salvation Army fundraiser

Chron.com | 'Donor fatigue' impacts Salvation Army fundraiser: "Donor fatigue' a new impact from storms
At this juncture, giving to Houston Salvation Army is down 10% from same time in '04

By ANNE MARIE KILDAY
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle

Officials of the Houston Salvation Army are leaving no bell unrung in fighting 'donor fatigue' that already challenges the $2.3 million fundraising goal for the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas programs."

Carnival gives millions to help S. Florida, Key West, Cozumel in storm recovery: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Carnival gives millions to help S. Florida, Key West, Cozumel in storm recovery: South Florida Sun-Sentinel: "arnival gives millions to help S. Florida, Key West, Cozumel in storm recovery

By Tom Stieghorst
Business Writer
Posted December 1 2005

Closing the books on an extraordinary hurricane season, Carnival Corp. on Wednesday donated $7 million to hurricane relief, including $1 million earmarked for the United Way of Broward County.

The funds will help pay for repairs to buildings that house charitable agencies, and to continue programs disrupted by the hurricane, said Doug Weber, president and chief executive officer of the Broward charity."

Guidance Explains How Katrina Victims Can Access Their Retirement Savings

Guidance Explains How Katrina Victims Can Access Their Retirement Savings: "Guidance Explains How Katrina Victims Can Access Their Retirement Savings


Dec. 1, 2005 (SmartPros) -- The Internal Revenue Service issued guidance relating to the application of two provisions of the Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act of 2005 (KETRA) for Hurricane Katrina victims and employer-sponsored retirement plans and IRAs.

Under one provision of KETRA, individuals who live in one of the four states affected by Hurricane Katrina and who suffered an economic loss as a result of that hurricane receive favorable tax treatment with respect to distributions from eligible retirement plans that are qualified Hurricane Katrina distributions, called 'Katrina distributions.'"

Hurricane Victims' Bills Coming Due

Hurricane Victims' Bills Coming Due: "Hurricane Victims' Bills Coming Due
Many Homeowners Face Deadline for Mortgage Payments

By Caroline E. Mayer and Terence O'Hara
Washington Post Staff Writers
Thursday, December 1, 2005; Page D01

Katrina victims Ed and Elsa Gaskell realized only last week that their last three months' worth of mortgage payments on their damaged New Orleans home were due today.

After the hurricane, their mortgage company, like most lenders, suspended payments until Dec. 1."

Wednesday, November 30, 2005

New Orleans to offer free Wi-Fi | CNET News.com

New Orleans to offer free Wi-Fi | CNET News.com: "he Big Easy plans to be the first major city to offer free wireless Internet access to its citizens in an effort to entice businesses and people to return to the city after the devastating hurricane season.

On Tuesday, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin announced the city's plan to cover the city with Wi-Fi Internet access within a year. And unlike other citywide wireless networks that have been proposed in cities like Philadelphia and San Francisco, New Orleans plans to operate the network itself.

Part of the network will be secured so that it can be used exclusively by the city to provide communications for municipal agencies like police, fire, and building inspection departments. The additional bandwidth on the network will be opened to the public to provide free Internet access to all citizens."

Amazon's A-List [Fool.com: Motley Fool Take] November 29, 2005

Amazon's A-List [Fool.com: Motley Fool Take] November 29, 2005: "Amazon's A-List

By Alyce Lomax (TMF Lomax)
November 29, 2005

Amazon.com (Nasdaq: AMZN) has brought dot-com pizzazz to the old idea of the celebrity telethon for worthy causes. Tuesday, the online retailing giant introduced what it calls The Amazon A-List for Hurricane Relief, through which users will be able to get exclusive content from celebrities in return for donations to help people who were affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Starting Wednesday and lasting until Dec. 20, Amazon.com will feature content from different celebrities every day, accessible to those who donate to the program. "

New Orleans says it's tuning up for tourists - Yahoo! News

New Orleans says it's tuning up for tourists - Yahoo! News: "New Orleans says it's tuning up for tourists

By Janet Guttsman Tue Nov 29, 3:58 PM ET

NEW ORLEANS (Reuters) - New Orleans, battered by a hurricane and then swamped by floods, is getting ready for the return of visitors, senior city officials said on Tuesday.


Speaking three months to the day after Hurricane Katrina devastated much of the city and sent its population fleeing to new homes around America, the officials said tourists should reassess their doomsday notions of New Orleans, a city of almost half a million people before the storm."

International Rescue Committee Awarded $200,000 by South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund for Pakistan Aid Operations - Yahoo! News

International Rescue Committee Awarded $200,000 by South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund for Pakistan Aid Operations - Yahoo! News: "nternational Rescue Committee Awarded $200,000 by South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund for Pakistan Aid Operations

Tue Nov 29, 1:01 PM ET

ADVERTISEMENT

To: National and Metro Desk

Contact: Ed Bligh, 212-551-3114 or ebligh@theIRC.org; Melissa Winkler, 212-551-0972 or melissa@theIRC.org; Web: http://www.theIRC.org

NEW YORK, Nov. 29 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has received a $200,000 grant for its emergency relief operations in Pakistan from the South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund, which is administered by the Committee to Encourage Corporate Philanthropy. The grant is the first awarded by the Fund."

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

First New Orleans public school reopens its classrooms - Yahoo! News

First New Orleans public school reopens its classrooms - Yahoo! News: "First New Orleans public school reopens its classrooms

Tue Nov 29, 2:53 AM ET

NEW ORLEANS, United States (AFP) - As Benjamin Franklin Elementary School became the first New Orleans public school to re-open since Hurricane Katrina struck, Layana Breashears' twin fifth graders offered a split decision on whether they are happy to be back.
ADVERTISEMENT

Lynnell is happy to be back in a classroom, but Donnell was more skeptical, shaking his head.

'There's no stores open,' he says.

Breashears enrolled her children eagerly on Monday morning. The family had just returned to New Orleans from Alexandria, Louisiana, over the Thanksgiving holiday."

Plainfield students give to Katrina victims

Plainfield students give to Katrina victims: "Plainfield students give to Katrina victims

By Catherine Ann Velasco
STAFF WRITER

PLAINFIELD — Plainfield School District students are getting a chance to spread some holiday cheer by donating unwrapped gifts for the children in Slidell, La., who were impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

Donations can be dropped off at any of district's 24 campuses or from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m at the district's Administration Center, 15732 Howard St., Plainfield. The deadline is Thursday.

The school district and the village of Plainfield have been collecting new, unwrapped holiday gifts to be delivered to Plainfield's sister city, Slidell, by village representatives next week."

Pew Internet & American Life Project Report: Online donations following Katrina and Rita

Pew Internet & American Life Project Report: Online donations following Katrina and Rita: "3 million Americans made donations online after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita

11/24/2005 | MemoMemo | John Horrigan

In the aftermath of the Gulf Coast Hurricanes, 13 million Americans made donations to relief efforts online and 7 million set up their own hurricane relief efforts using the internet. In addition to using the internet to respond directly to the crisis, 50% of online users sought out news and information online,"

Monday, November 28, 2005

Attitudes to Nonprofits After Katrina and Tsunami are Generally Positive: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance

PRESS RELEASE
Attitudes to Nonprofits After Katrina and Tsunami are Generally Positive: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance: "Press Release Source: Harris Interactive

Attitudes to Nonprofits After Katrina and Tsunami are Generally Positive
Monday November 28, 1:24 pm ET
But substantial minorities are somewhat negative to nonprofits (charities, foundations, and other philanthropic groups), even though most highly visible charities enjoy very strong support

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Nov. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- The American public's attitudes to, and perceptions of, nonprofits, including charities, foundations, and other philanthropic organizations is generally positive, but substantial minorities hold somewhat negative opinions of nonprofits in general. Individual charities which were actively involved in helping the victims of Hurricane Katrina mostly receive strong positive ratings. However, FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) is rated negatively by a 72 percent majority.

These are some of the results of a Harris Poll conducted online by Harris Interactive� among a nationwide cross-section of 1,833 U.S. adults between October 11 and 17, 2005. It measures, therefore, the public's reactions to how nonprofits responded to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the tsunami which devastated parts of Indonesia, Sri Lanka and other countries in Southeast Asia."

Disaster Relief FAQ # A-3 from IRS

Disaster Relief FAQ # A-3: "What is meant by charitable class?

A charitable class is a group of individuals that may properly receive assistance from a charitable organization. A charitable class must be either large enough or sufficiently indefinite that the community as a whole, rather than a pre-selected group of people, is benefited when a charity provides assistance. For example, a charitable class could consist of all individuals located in a city, county, or state. This charitable class is large and benefits to it benefit the entire geographic community."

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Independent Online Edition > Gap Year

Independent Online Edition > Gap Year: "Charity Work: It's never too late to lend a hand
If you want to help out following a disaster overseas, or if you're in need of a constructive year out, volunteering opportunities are open to all. Kirsten Downer reports
Published: 17 November 2005

Are you stuck in a rut and looking for a change? Fed up of seeing hungry, impoverished faces on your TV screen and want to do something to help? Perhaps you've considered volunteering overseas but ruled it out because you thought you were too old, couldn't commit enough time, or have a family. If so, think again.

'Over the past five years it has become far safer - and more professionally acceptable - to take up a job volunteering overseas,' says David Stitt, managing director of Gap Year for Grown Ups, a company catering for volunteers in their late 20s and upwards. 'Whereas 10 years ago intrepid souls took financial and personal risks in volunteering abroad, now several organisations exist to make the experience secure and well-organised.'

Nowadays, universities and businesses encourage overseas volunteering among students and employees.

FEMA Gives Hurricane Evacuees Extra Month - Yahoo! News

FEMA Gives Hurricane Evacuees Extra Month - Yahoo! News: "WASHINGTON - Stung by complaints it was pushing hurricane victims out before the holidays, FEMA extended its hotel housing program Tuesday by a month in 10 states where most of the homeless evacuees sought shelter after Katrina and Rita.

More than 46,000 families in those states now have until Jan. 7 to move out of hotels and into travel trailers, mobile homes or apartments until they find permanent homes. The deadline comes much sooner — Dec. 15 — for 3,500 other households scattered nationwide, before the
Federal Emergency Management Agency stops paying their hotel bills."

The Seattle Times: Opinion: Surviving FEMA's cold shoulder

The Seattle Times: Opinion: Surviving FEMA's cold shoulder: "Surviving FEMA's cold shoulder

The old expression of moving one step forward and two steps back sums it up nicely for the victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

After a hapless initial response in which federal and local officials bumped heads and dropped balls like a Three Stooges routine, assistance has flowed to the hundreds of thousands displaced by the worst natural disasters in our history.

Now we're falling backward and the people who can least afford the lapse will pay the price. The Federal Emergency Management Agency plans to end hotel payments to hurricane victims by Dec. 15 and rent subsidies by March. The agency that kept its inept leader, Michael Brown, on the payroll long past his pull date now wants to pinch pennies?

The majority of hurricane evacuees are not back in their homes. Many will never go back. Their existence currently entails navigating new cities, temporary housing and finding work. Federal officials don't deny this reality but instead point to state and local governments to pick up the task of assisting evacuees."

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Legislature wraps up special session on hurricane recovery

Legislature wraps up special session on hurricane recovery: "Legislature wraps up special session on hurricane recovery


BATON ROUGE, La. -- Lawmakers worked into the final hours of a special legislative session Tuesday to rebalance Louisiana's deficit-riddled budget, complete a tax break package to entice businesses back to hurricane-damaged areas and hammer out the final provisions of a new statewide building code to prevent future devastation."

Reuters AlertNet - Church World Service Leader Tells Top Donor Countries, "Make Pledges Real Now" to Save Pakistan Quake Survivors

Reuters AlertNet - Church World Service Leader Tells Top Donor Countries, "Make Pledges Real Now" to Save Pakistan Quake Survivors: "Church World Service-USA
Website: http://www.churchworldservice.org
NEWS UPDATE

NEW YORK - Fri Nov 18 – Following United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan arrived in Pakistan yesterday for this weekend’s International Donor Conference, the humanitarian agency Church World Service (CWS) is heightening its call to the international community to back the UN with swift delivery of promised funds for ongoing emergency aid, reconstruction and sustainable rehabilitation in the earthquake devastated region.

Church World Service Executive Director and CEO Rev. John L. McCullough, who visited Pakistan last week, says, “The job is far from over. The first snow fell in Kashmir this past week. Without immediate and major funds for food, for further shelter and medical aid, winter and disease will conspire to produce significan"

The Pueblo Chieftain Online -Phys ed philanthropy

The Pueblo Chieftain Online - Pueblo, Colorado U.S.A: "Phys ed philanthropy
CSU-Pueblo athletes extend generosity to hurricane victims
By GAYLE PEREZ
THE PUEBLO CHIEFTAIN

When 11-year-old Sarah Lacoste opened the door to her family's Belmont apartment Monday morning, she knew her good deed was being repaid.

Days ago, the Heaton Middle School sixth-grader took a few canned goods from the family's pantry to donate to a food drive at school.

'Remember when you asked what I was doing taking the food to school,' she told her mother, Jennifer Lacoste. 'I told you it would come back to us.'"

Monday, November 21, 2005

USATODAY.com - Katrina shelves gifts to food banks

USATODAY.com - Katrina shelves gifts to food banks: "Katrina shelves gifts to food banks
By Wendy Koch, USA TODAY
As Hurricane Katrina donations reach near-record levels, some food banks in the USA are seeing bare shelves as they prepare for Thanksgiving and winter.
Chris Cunningham works at the Idaho Food Bank, where demand is up for Thanksgiving, but donations are expected to be less. Chris Cunningham works at the Idaho Food Bank, where demand is up for Thanksgiving, but donations are expected to be less.
By Troy Maben, AP

Food donations are down 12% in Los Angeles, 30% in New York City and more than 50% in Milwaukee and Denver, according to America's Second Harvest network, which accounts for 80% of the nation's food banks for the needy."

Journal Gazette | 11/21/2005 | Do-gooder companies help themselves

Journal Gazette | 11/21/2005 | Do-gooder companies help themselves: "Do-gooder companies help themselves

By David Ranii

Raleigh (N.C.) News & Observer

Enlightened self-interest has its benefits.

The nation’s businesses aren’t philanthropic organizations. Yet, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, corporate America has contributed an estimated $1 billion and counting to benefit the victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

“Katrina is the fastest outpouring of aid ever,” said Stephen Jordan, executive director of the chamber’s Center for Corporate Citizenship."

Friday, November 18, 2005

Picayune Item: Volunteer organization given notice to get in paperwork

Picayune Item: Mississippi News Near the Gulf: News: "Volunteer organization given notice to get in paperwork

By Sarah Scheuermann/Item Correspondent
Friday, November 18, 2005 1:37 PM CST

Convoy of Hope responded quickly to Picayune's needs following Hurricane Katrina, but weren't quick enough to respond to a request from Secretary of State Eric Clark to register as a charitable organization.

Convoy of Hope, based in Springfield, Mo., set up and distributed survival supplies such as ice, water, food, diapers and infant formula the afternoon after Hurricane Katrina's landfall. The next morning, they busily distributed these items to area residents. Yet, there was a gap in communication between this 501- C (3) nonprofit organization with Clark's office."

End of Ramadan Celebrated with Fundraiser - News - Mount Vernon Gazette - Connection Newspapers

End of Ramadan Celebrated with Fundraiser - News - Mount Vernon Gazette - Connection Newspapers: "End of Ramadan Celebrated with Fundraiser
Mahmoods open their home to celebrate and help earthquake victims.
Gale Curcio
November 18, 2005
snip snip>>>


Concurrent with these festivities is a sense of generosity and gratitude. Although charity and good deeds are always important in Islam, they have special significance at the end of Ramadan. As the month draws to a close, Muslims are obligated to share their blessings by feeding the poor and making contributions to mosques.
What better way than to make this year’s celebration a fundraising dinner for earthquake victims in Northern Pakistan? Long known for their generosity, the Mahmoods once again teamed up with friend and neighbor, Susan Allen, wife of U.S. Senator George Allen (R-VA). The honorary committee also included Ambassador and Mrs. Jehangir Karamat of Pakistan. Serving as honorary co-chairs were: Ashraf and Ambreen Hayat; Dr. Hamid and Shahnaz Quraishi; and Ester Coopersmith. Also in attendance was Mahmoudmian Sumrou, Pakistan Senate Chairman, and Barbara Johnson, wife of U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD).
Their goal was to have a festive evening, while at the same time doing good for an area of the world that desperately needs help. Shaista Mahmood said approximately 200 people came to the event and they raised $100,000. "

FEMA Says It Will Work Out Refugee Housing - Yahoo! News

FEMA Says It Will Work Out Refugee Housing - Yahoo! News: "FEMA Says It Will Work Out Refugee Housing

By MICHAEL GRACZYK, Associated Press Writer Thu Nov 17, 6:31 PM ET

HOUSTON - Federal and state officials tried to ease fears Thursday that thousands of Louisiana hurricane refugees in Texas would be left homeless again after Dec. 1 when FEMA has said it will stop paying their hotel and motel bills.
ADVERTISEMENT

'We are finding longer-term housing for all evacuees,' said Russ Knocke, spokesman for the Department of
Homeland Security. 'That's really a top priority, working with families to help them find some long-term housing options."

Christianpost.com - Christian Breaking News, U.S., World, Christian Music, Christian Entertainment, Education, Health, Christian Book & Christian Busi

Christianpost.com - Christian Breaking News, U.S., World, Christian Music, Christian Entertainment, Education, Health, Christian Book & Christian Business News: "Over 3,000 CCC Students Mobilized for Gulf Coast Recovery Efforts
Thursday, Nov. 17, 2005 Posted: 8:08:32PM EST

Over the weekend, more than 600 college students descended on the hurricane-battered town of Pass Christian, Miss., to help the ongoing relief and recovery efforts of the town.

Over 3,000 CCC Students Mobilized for Gulf Coast Recovery Efforts
Three students gut houses in Pass Christian, Miss. They are among more than 2,300 students sent by Campus Crusade for Christ to help clean areas devastated by the hurricanes. Students travel from around the entire country to the Gulf states when they are off from school. (Photo: Campus Crusade for Christ)

After a massive storm surge destroyed more than 70 percent of the homes in the town, the U.S. Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ International (CCCI) called on college students from all its 1,298 college campuses to join the Katrina relief effort in the Gulf Coast. Thus far, the students have gutted 375 of the 500 flooded homes left still standing after Katrina.
"

Thursday, November 17, 2005

NHL.com - News-NHLPA, NHL become teammates with Garth Brooks to help children in need

NHL.com - News: "NHLPA, NHL become teammates with Garth Brooks to help children in need

Brooks will match dollars raised from NHL / NHLPA Katrina Relief Game-Worn Jersey Auction

NEW YORK (November 16, 2005) - The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players' Association have jointly selected Garth Brooks Teammates for Kids Foundation as the official children's charity of the NHL and NHLPA. The league-wide alliance will include players from all 30 NHL Member Clubs and utilize the League and Players' Association's full platform of marketing resources."

AP Wire | 11/16/2005 | Forty new charities register since Katrina, four raise questions

AP Wire | 11/16/2005 | Forty new charities register since Katrina, four raise questions: "Forty new charities register since Katrina, four raise questions

HOLBROOK MOHR

Associated Press

JACKSON, Miss. - Forty new charities have registered to solicit funds since Hurricane Katrina struck on Aug. 29, and more than a dozen have expanded their missions, Secretary of State Eric Clark says.

On the negative side, Clark said four charities have not responded to official inquiries and could be shut down.

'In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we probably have seen more focus on charitable giving than ever before,' Clark said Wednesday as he released his annual report on charitable organizations."

Pittsburgh Catholic Newspaper - News and Features

Pittsburgh Catholic Newspaper - News and Features: "aithful respond in spirit of giving
current article
by: John Franko

The generous spirit of the diocesan faithful continues to manifest itself in many ways, locally, nationally and internationally.

In addition to the regular weekly offerings that support the parishes of the diocese, contributions on the part of local Catholics toward those in need often top those of much larger archdioceses and dioceses.

The diocese contributed more than $1.8 million for relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina in August. The figure included more than $43,000 collected by diocesan schools."

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

The Chronicle, 11/16/2005: Donations to U.S. Relief Groups Top $30-Million for Pakistan Earthquake

The Chronicle, 11/16/2005: Donations to U.S. Relief Groups Top $30-Million for Pakistan Earthquake: "Donations to U.S. Relief Groups Top $30-Million for Pakistan Earthquake

By Cassie Moore

Donations to major American relief organizations to help victims of the South Asia earthquake now stand at just over $30-million, a figure that fund raisers say falls short of the need but is an encouraging response when put into the context of many other international disasters.

The earthquakes that demolished parts of Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan last month killed more than 74,000 people and left thousands more injured and homeless."

In a season of giving, charity fatigue may hit close to home this year

In a season of giving, charity fatigue may hit close to home this year: "n a season of giving, charity fatigue may hit close to home this year
By Jennifer Pearson Bonnett
News-Sentinel Staff Writer
Last updated: Wednesday, Nov 16, 2005 - 06:43:38 am PST

Dennis Lewis will soon begin his annual labor of love by preparing angel tags. The gift request forms are from underprivileged children in Lodi, and Lewis' Lodi Adopt-A-Child organization will answer more than 1,500 of those requests with the help of citizen donations.

At least that's his hope."

NP Times / Leaving Everything Behind

NP Times / Leaving Everything Behind: "November 1, 2005
Leaving Everything Behind
VOA chapter learns to operate across state lines

By Alan Naditz

When Jim LeBlanc, president of the Volunteers of America’s Greater New Orleans affiliate, first heard about Hurricane Katrina heading toward the city, he thought he had things covered. This was, after all, another exercise in what’s become an annual ritual: break out the disaster response plan and get to work preparing residents for evacuation.

“For the past three or four years during hurricane season we’ve had to evacuate people from our communities once or twice a year,” LeBlanc said. “We know the drill: We hire several Greyhound buses, pack several days of clothing for each person and make hotel reservations. We know we’ll be back in a few days after the storm’s over.”"

FEMA Tells 150,000 in Hotels to Exit In 15 Days

FEMA Tells 150,000 in Hotels to Exit In 15 Days: "FEMA Tells 150,000 in Hotels to Exit In 15 Days
No More Free Rooms For Katrina Evacuees

By Spencer S. Hsu
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2005; Page A01

The Federal Emergency Management Agency yesterday warned an estimated 150,000 Hurricane Katrina evacuees living in government-subsidized hotels that they have until Dec. 1 to find other housing before it stops paying for their rooms.

The announcement effectively starts the clock ticking toward a new exodus of Gulf Coast storm victims who have been living rent-free in 5,700 hotels in 51 states and U.S. territories under the $273 million program."

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

Arizona Capitol Times-tate tallies Katrina relief costs; DPS has biggest share

Arizona Capitol Times: "State tallies Katrina relief costs; DPS has biggest share

By Paul Davenport
The Associated Press


The state has spent more than $1.2 million on Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, with half of the initial tally being reported by the law-enforcement agency that provided security at a state-owned arena used as a shelter for evacuees.

According to preliminary figures provided by state officials for costs reported by Oct. 21, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported expenses totaling $622,343. Other state agencies reporting large expenditures included the Department of Economic Security (DES) with $358,000 and the Department of Housing at $232,613. "

Association of Fundraising Professionals | About AFP | AFP news & press releases

AFP PRESS RELEASE

Association of Fundraising Professionals | About AFP | AFP news & press releases: "FUNDRAISING DOWN SLIGHTLY BECAUSE OF HURRICANES: OPTIMISM STILL STRONG THAT GIVING WILL RECOVER BY YEAR’S END


DATE: Nov. 15, 2005

FOR RELEASE: Immediate

CONTACT: Joyce O’Brien, V.P., Marketing & Communications, (703) 519-8457

(Alexandria, VA) Nearly half of U.S. charities have seen their fundraising decline because of the Gulf Coast Hurricanes and the associated relief efforts, according to a survey by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) released on National Philanthropy Day�.

The Hurricane Impact Study, which surveyed fundraisers in California, Florida, Illinois, New York and Texas, found that 46 percent of respondents saw their fundraising decline because of the hurricanes and the relief efforts."

The Enterprise at SouthofBoston.com

The Enterprise at SouthofBoston.com: "Charity begins close to home
By Elaine Allegrini, Enterprise staff writer

Janet Victoria walked out of Westgate Mall in Brockton on Monday and went straight to the Salvation Army red kettle to deposit the cash in her hand.

'God bless,' bell-ringer Barbara Roy of Brockton said.

Her smile beamed each time someone dropped cash in the kettle during the first day of the Salvation Army's annual holiday drive.

Time's Person of the Year Could Be Katrina - Yahoo! News

Time's Person of the Year Could Be Katrina - Yahoo! News: "Time's Person of the Year Could Be Katrina

By DEEPTI HAJELA, Associated Press Writer Tue Nov 15, 6:53 AM ET

NEW YORK - Time magazine's 2005 Person of the Year may not be a person after all. A panel of notables has made a strong case for awarding the distinction this year to Hurricane Katrina.

NBC anchor Brian Williams included Katrina in his larger nomination of Mother Nature, which he picked because of a host of environmental stories this year, from the tsunami to earthquakes in Pakistan. He said the hurricane and its aftermath led to other issues."

Napa Valley Register Online | CommentaryOpinion

Napa Valley Register Online | CommentaryOpinion: "A good cause and a strike at terrorism
By MORTON KONDRACKE
Monday, November 14, 2005 11:46 AM PST


The United States reaped huge political benefits from its generous response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. But it's in danger of falling short now in strategically vital Pakistan.

Five weeks after an earthquake killed an estimated 87,000 people and left 2 million homeless with savage weather descending, the U.S. government has committed $156 million to relief in Pakistan, compared to $1 billion after the tsunami.

Private U.S. donations for Pakistan so far total $47.7 million. That compares to $600 million a month after the tsunami and $1.6 billion total. A week after the tsunami, President Bush enlisted his father and former President Bill Clinton to lead private relief fundraising. It took 20 days for him to appoint five corporate CEOs to lead a similar effort after the earthquake, along with Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes.
"

Capital News 9 | 24 Hour Local News | HEADLINES | Hurricane donations about to eclipse 9/11 giving

Capital News 9 | 24 Hour Local News | HEADLINES | Hurricane donations about to eclipse 9/11 giving: "Hurricane donations about to eclipse 9/11 giving
11/14/2005 2:01 PM
By: The Associated Press

Americans have given nearly as much to charities in the 11 weeks since Hurricane Katrina as they did in the entire two years after 9/11.

The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University said the hurricane total already has reached $2.65 billion. The group said within the next couple of weeks the total should surpass the $2.8 billion contributed after the attacks."

Monday, November 14, 2005

United Press International - NewsTrack - Hurricane Katrina draws record donations

United Press International - NewsTrack - Hurricane Katrina draws record donations: "urricane Katrina draws record donations

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- American giving is about to set another milestone as donations for victims of Hurricane Katrina are expected to go over the record set after the 9/11 tragedy.

Private donations totaled nearly $2.7 billion just 11 weeks after Katrina struck, say the Red Cross and Indiana University's Center on Philanthropy, which tracks charitable giving, reports USA Today.

The total given to the Sept. 11, 2001, charities was $2.8 billion."

Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Compassion fatigue leaves quake victims out in the cold

Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Compassion fatigue leaves quake victims out in the cold: "Compassion fatigue leaves quake victims out in the cold

� UN to ask for billions of dollars at donors' meeting
� Cash needed immediately to stave off crisis

Randeep Ramesh, south Asia correspondent
Monday November 14, 2005
The Guardian

The international community needs to spend 'several billions of dollars in immediate cash' to stave off a humanitarian crisis in Pakistan-ruled Kashmir, according to the chairman of an international donor conference to be held this week.

Kemal Dervis, the head of the UN Development Programme, acknowledged that the relief effort had struggled to raise the required $550m (�314m) from its instant appeal and that the $130m pledged so far was 'clearly insufficient'."

Financial squeeze play - Buffalo - MSNBC.com

Financial squeeze play - Buffalo - MSNBC.com: "Financial squeeze play
Nonprofits struggle to meet growing demand
Related Stories
By Tracey Drury
Business First of Buffalo
Updated: 7:00 p.m. ET Nov. 13, 2005

In a year when Americans have poured billions of dollars into disaster relief around the world, nonprofit agencies in Western New York are weathering a storm of their own.

It's true that many organizations have seen significant revenue growth in recent years, in line with a national trend of increased giving from individual donors. However, if you ask just about any nonprofit executive how things are going, you'll hear a lot of complaints about how tight the economy is, about the declining availability of funding from government and foundations and how much they've had to adjust their staffing to balance the budget."

USATODAY.com - Suspected scams tucked into near-record Katrina giving

USATODAY.com - Suspected scams tucked into near-record Katrina giving: "
Posted 11/13/2005 9:58 PM


Suspected scams tucked into near-record Katrina giving
By Thomas Frank, USA TODAY
In the days after Hurricane Katrina hit, visitors to AirKatrina.com read wrenching accounts of rescue missions flown into the Gulf Coast by Florida pilot Gary Kraser.

'If we didn't have the plane, I don't think the little baby would have survived,' Kraser wrote. 'She is undergoing transplant surgery at this moment.'

But the stories that helped inspire 48 people to donate nearly $40,000 were a lie, prosecutors say. There were no sick babies, they allege, no rescues, not even any flights by Kraser, who now stands charged with fraud.

As Hurricanes Katrina and Rita generate near-record-breaking charitable giving, they also are spawning a cottage industry of fraud."

After the Storm, One Town Finds 1,000 Ways to Give - New York Times

After the Storm, One Town Finds 1,000 Ways to Give - New York Times: "After the Storm, One Town Finds 1,000 Ways to Give
Jim Wilson/The New York Times



By PETER T. KILBORN
Published: November 14, 2005

ST. FRANCISVILLE, La.

THAT Saturday, Aug. 27, Rose Parsee, or Mother Rose to her church and her three younger generations, got a call from a daughter, Kathlyn Locke. Ms. Locke, Ms. Parsee and most of the clan lived in two houses and an apartment in Harvey, just south of New Orleans on the city's west bank. A hardy brick of a woman, intense and passionate, Ms. Parsee had never been out of the area in her 65 years."

Friday, November 11, 2005

Lilly Endowment gives $2 million to help with storm relief | IndyStar.com

Lilly Endowment gives $2 million to help with storm relief | IndyStar.com: "Lilly Endowment gives $2 million to help with storm relief

Direct Care Staff
By Theodore Kim
theodore.kim@indystar.com
The Lilly Endowment Inc., today granted $2 million to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis and the Salvation Army to help with relief efforts in the wake of the Southern Indiana tornado.
That tornado struck early Sunday morning near Evansville, killing 23 people and destroying some 200 houses in Indiana."

Spokane Journal of Business - A HARSH WIND: Charities here feel impact of hurricane giving, rising costs

Spokane Journal of Business - The Business Newspaper For The Inland Northwest: "A HARSH WIND: Charities here feel impact of hurricane giving, rising costs

‘Compassion fatigue’ feared as nonprofits prepare to serve many this winter

By Rocky Wilson

Mathew Meeusen, operations director at St. Vincent de Paul, says contributions to local charities have gone down because of donations for hurricane relief.
Mathew Meeusen, operations director at St. Vincent de Paul, says contributions to local charities have gone down because of donations for hurricane relief.

High fuel and utility costs, coupled with a shift in donations to other parts of the nation and world to meet needs caused by natural disasters, have charities here worried about whether they’ll have the resources to serve Spokane’s people in need this winter."

Baptists’ 10.5 mil meals shatters record

Baptists’ 10.5 mil meals shatters record: "LPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Southern Baptist Disaster Relief announced Nov. 2 that volunteers have prepared a record 10.5 million meals since Hurricane Katrina made landfall in late August. The meal count shatters the previous record of 3.5 million meals set in 2004.
Click on image for related coverage

In one of the most active hurricane seasons in U.S. history, more than 9,000 Southern Baptist volunteers from 41 state conventions have been deployed following hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma."

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Rushville Republican--The effects of national giving on local organizations

Rushville Republican--The effects of national giving on local organizations: "The effects of national giving on local organizations

How recent disasters change philanthropy
Starr Shuppert
Republican Staff Writer

Hundreds of billions of dollars have been sent across this nation and abroad, especially this year following hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

According to those heading local charities, dollars that are being given to disaster relief around the world could potentially leave local charities feeling short-changed.

U.S. Newswire : Releases : "The Asia Foundation Releases First Assessment of Recovery and Reconstruction in PostTsunami Aceh..."

U.S. Newswire : Releases : "The Asia Foundation Releases First Assessment of Recovery and Reconstruction in PostTsunami Aceh...": "he Asia Foundation Releases First Assessment of Recovery and Reconstruction in Post-Tsunami Aceh; In Response, Give2Asia Launches New Fund to Support Critical Revitalization Needs

11/9/2005 10:00:00 AM

To: National Desk

Contact: Jennifer Betti of The Asia Foundation, 415-743-3367 or jbetti@asiafound.org

ACEH, INDONESIA, Nov. 9 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Scores of children in Aceh have quit school due to a lack of affordable and efficient transportation, and local merchants need guidance and support in order to re-start their businesses, according to the first assessment of post-tsunami recovery and reconstruction efforts in Aceh, Indonesia. The Aceh Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Appraisal (ARRA), funded by and produced in cooperation with The Asia Foundation, is a 16-month landmark assessment designed to accelerate and guide the revitalization of Aceh following the December 2004 tsunami that killed and displaced tens of thousands. The assessment's phase one findings were based on personal, in-depth interviews with victims and international and Indonesian service providers which were conducted by The Asia Foundation, the Aceh Recovery Forum, and the Department of Law at the University of Syiah Kuala, University of Malikul Saleh, Regional Development Institute (YPK), and a women-focused NGO (MISPI).

Scotsman.com News - Scotland - Edinburgh - Tsunami charity drive wins campaign award

Scotsman.com News - Scotland - Edinburgh - Tsunami charity drive wins campaign award: "sunami charity drive wins campaign award

LAURA VARNEY

A CHARITY campaign launched by the Evening News which raised a staggering £500,000 in Edinburgh for victims of the Asian tsunami has scooped a prestigious award.

The Mercy Corps and Edinburgh Evening News Capital Appeal for Tsunami Survivors was named Campaign of the Year at the Scottish Institute of Fundraising Awards."

2theadvocate.com: News - Nonprofits also storm victims 11/08/05

2theadvocate.com: News - Nonprofits also storm victims 11/08/05: "There is a similar crisis brewing in the 'third sector,' nonprofit organizations that are neither government nor for-profit businesses.

They have clients to serve just as governments and businesses do, and the kinds of help they provide -- from housing to food to health services to counseling -- are just the kinds of things needed today, more greatly than before the impact of Katrina and Rita.

At the same time, nonprofits in greater New Orleans and in southwest Louisiana faced the same difficulties of flooded buildings, scattered staff and poor communications that have bedeviled many businesses in the region."

edmontonsun.com - Alberta - Klein presents quake aid

edmontonsun.com - Alberta - Klein presents quake aid: "Premier Ralph Klein presented the Canadian Red Cross with $5 million last night during a fundraising dinner for victims of last month's earthquake in Pakistan and India.

Alberta's $5-million contribution from the Alberta Lottery Fund was already in Canadian Red Cross coffers to help victims of the deadly Oct. 8 earthquake."

BayouBuzz.com - Louisiana Politics and News-Louisiana Recovery Head Issacson Addresses Business Congressional Committee

BayouBuzz.com - Louisiana Politics and News: "On Tuesday, Walter Isaccson, the vice chairman of the Louisiana Recovery Authority which is the planning and coordinating body designed to help create a vision for the recovery of Louisiana addressed a U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Here are his comments to the committee which provides insight regarding the problems faced by Louisiana small businesses and perhaps opportunities:

Thank you for the invitation to speak on behalf of my native state, Louisiana. My name is Walter Isaacson, and I serve as the vice chairman of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, which was created by Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco to be the planning and coordinating body that will assist in implementing the Governor�s vision for the recovery of Louisiana. The authority will identify and prioritize the short- and long-term needs of the recovery."

Monday, November 07, 2005

Online Charity Auctions: A Win-Win Business Strategy

Online Charity Auctions: A Win-Win Business Strategy

The Mountain Press

The Mountain Press: "Attempt fails, but group hug still a success
By: JOEL DAVIS November 06, 2005
Email to a friend Voice your opinion
PIGEON FORGE - An attempt to break the world's record for largest group hug on Saturday may have technically failed, but participants walked away feeling warm and fuzzy anyway.
Taking place in the parking lot of Boyds Bear Country, 149 Cates Lane, the attempt needed at least 5,118 participants to hug each other 10 seconds to succeed. Almost 2,000 had registered shortly before the attempt took place.
The failure to set a record did not bother Charles and Carol LeClair, who did some hugging of their own during the event."

The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Harvard Pledges Additional Aid

The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Harvard Pledges Additional Aid: "Harvard Pledges Additional Aid
New guidelines provide clearer basis for Harvard relief donations
Published On Monday, November 07, 2005 1:39 AM
By JAVIER C. HERNANDEZ
Crimson Staff Writer
Laying the framework for a uniform policy on donations to disaster aid funds, University President Lawrence H. Summers announced on Friday that Harvard will offer financial contributions to University groups organizing Kashmir earthquake relief efforts.

In a letter to the Harvard community released nearly one month after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake devastated parts of South Asia, Summers pledged University funding “on a case-by-case basis to groups of University members who, with compassion and imagination, have devised ways to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts in Pakistan.” "

Katrina giving sets record - The Honolulu Advertiser

Katrina giving sets record - The Honolulu Advertiser: "Katrina giving sets record
• Katrina evacuees settle in Isles

By Suzanne Roig
Advertiser East Honolulu Writer


More than $2 million has been donated to the local chapter of the American Red Cross since Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast on Aug. 29.

It is, according to Coralie Chun Matayoshi, chief executive officer for the Hawai'i chapter of the American Red Cross, the quickest the state chapter has topped $2 million in donations following a disaster."