After rough 2009, remittances on rise - Business Monday - MiamiHerald.com

After rough 2009, remittances on rise - Business Monday - MiamiHerald.com: "After the Jan 12 earthquake in Haiti, Pierre Lopez doubled the amount he sends to his family in remittances.

Lopez, 49, a part-time hotel cleaner who lost his wife and 19-year-old daughter in the catastrophe, scrapes by on $400 every two weeks. He used to send $150 to his parents monthly. Now it's $300."

Clap, clap to industry for quake response - Techie Isles - Blogs

Clap, clap to industry for quake response - Techie Isles - Blogs: "New Zealand Prime Minister John Key and city mayor Bob Parker have both branded it a 'miracle' that no-one died in last weekend's Christchurch earthquake.

The magnitude of the quake was as great as that in Haiti, where over 200,000 died. So why did New Zealand escape fatalities from such a powerful disaster? Many reports credit the timing of the quake, which was in the early hours when many will have still been asleep.

But rather than being a miracle, I would say the efforts of Kiwis, particularly its tech sector, can take credit for averting tragedy in this multibillion-dollar disaster."

Boulder Colorado Fire and role of social media : Online Social Media

Boulder Colorado Fire and role of social media : Online Social Media: "The use of social media in times of crisis has become more and more apparent in recent times, for example for the Haiti earthquake, or at the time of the ash cloud from the Iceland volcano, and now social media once again has a role to play. Not only can residents in the area keep tabs on what is happening and what moves to make next but even the sheriff’s department has recognized the importance of social media and the role that it can play, according to Cory Bergman over on LostRemote."

Ottawa urged to extend donation matching deadline for Pakistan floods - Winnipeg Free Press

Ottawa urged to extend donation matching deadline for Pakistan floods - Winnipeg Free Press: "TORONTO - Ottawa must give Canadians more time to aid in Pakistan flood-relief efforts by extending its pledge to match donations dollar-for-dollar, doctors headed to the region said Tuesday.
Canadians have been slow to respond with donations for the Pakistan flooding compared to other disasters like the Haiti earthquake, and the deadline for the dollar matching commitment is Sunday.
The doctors, joined by Liberal MP Jim Karygiannis, called on Ottawa to extend it to the end of the month."

Fundraising suhoor aims to benefit Pakistan’s flood victims - The National Newspaper

Fundraising suhoor aims to benefit Pakistan’s flood victims - The National Newspaper: "ABU DHABI // More than 300 people will be raising aid for flood-ravaged Pakistan while having suhoor tonight.

The Dubai-based Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment is holding the event from 9.30pm until midnight at the Monarch Hotel in Dubai near the Trade Centre.

The event, which aims to keep people aware of the situation in Pakistan, will include an auction of donated items, including works of art photographs, electronics."

Americans Slower to Aid Pakistani Flood Victims | The Rundown News Blog | PBS NewsHour | PBS

Americans Slower to Aid Pakistani Flood Victims | The Rundown News Blog | PBS NewsHour | PBS: "American individuals and corporations have given generously to the people of Pakistan suffering from the worst flooding catastrophe in the nation's history. But that generosity still falls short of the sums Americans have donated to aid victims of other major crises."

Clinton Makes PSA To Help Flood Victims

Clinton Makes PSA To Help Flood Victims: "Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is appearing in public service announcemen..."

Homeland Security Today - preparedness and security news - Nonprofits Face Big Bureaucratic Hurdles

Homeland Security Today - preparedness and security news - Nonprofits Face Big Bureaucratic Hurdles: "utting red tape could boost disaster recovery efforts, GAO says

In the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, nonprofit organizations that rushed to the Gulf Coast to help disaster victims were hindered by copious amounts of bureaucratic red tape and federal liaisons with insufficient training to assist them.

But the federal government has been looking at ways to reduce the administrative burden on nonprofits that apply for grant programs to aid disaster victims, congressional investigators reported Monday. Nonprofit organizations told the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in interviews that the federal disaster grant process involved complicated record keeping and documentation procedures, among other complications."

Aging philanthropist is Pakistan's Mother Teresa

Aging philanthropist is Pakistan's Mother Teresa: "PESHAWAR, Pakistan -- The aging man in mud-splattered, frayed clothes has barely lowered his body onto the sidewalk when the money starts piling up. Heeding his call for donations for flood victims, Pakistanis of all classes rush to hand over cash to Abdul Sattar Edhi, whose years of dedication to the poor have made him a national icon."

Fairhaven student gathers shoes for victims of Haiti earthquake - 10 Who Cared - bellinghamherald.com

Fairhaven student gathers shoes for victims of Haiti earthquake - 10 Who Cared - bellinghamherald.com: "When the magnitude 7 earthquake hit Haiti last January, Joe Ludwigson knew he wanted to help.
Just 14, Joe knew a boy from Haiti. They met six years ago when Joe and his mother traveled to the island nation because his parents, Eric and Jenny Ludwigson, were adopting a Haitian boy."

Digicel, youths build school from containers - Breaking & Current Jamaica News - JamaicaObserver.com

Digicel, youths build school from containers - Breaking & Current Jamaica News - JamaicaObserver.com: "PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti: The first school built under an partnership between Digicel and the United States Agency for International Development USAID was opened here yesterday.
�cole Louis de Borno in L�og�ne - the town located at the epicentre of the January 12th earthquake - will welcome 600 primary students when the new school year begins on October 4."

Earthquakes and Floods: Comparing Haiti and Pakistan - Brookings Institution

Earthquakes and Floods: Comparing Haiti and Pakistan - Brookings Institution: "AUGUST 26, 2010 —
Comparisons between the response to the Haitian earthquake and to Pakistan’s floods are perhaps inevitable, as these major tragedies occurred within seven months of each other. Much of the commentary has focused on possible reasons for the disproportionate donor response to the two disasters. But there are other similarities – and differences – between the two cases that deserve further attention. This short article seeks to provide some comparisons between disasters in Haiti and Pakistan by looking first at the difference in the nature of the disasters, followed by comparison of housing needs, displacement, and the international response"

Public News Service-North Carolina Non-profits Brace For Intense Hurricane Season

Public News Service: "JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - North Carolina is more likely to see a severe hurricane this year, compared to years past, according to the National Weather Service. As the country remembers the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, non-profits like the Eastern Carolina Human Services Agency, Jacksonville, say they are better prepared now to handle such a disaster."

Pakistani community questions slow start to donation flow - Winnipeg Free Press

Pakistani community questions slow start to donation flow - Winnipeg Free Press: "Now — as Khan’s home country of Pakistan is in need of help as flood waters wreak havoc— the St. Vital man is left wondering why the public response to the disaster doesn’t seem to measure to the energetic effort that surrounded Haiti.

'For me, it’s really painful,' said Khan, who came to Canada in 1997 and runs Grocery Bazar on St. Mary’s Road. 'If there’s anywhere in the world that this is happening, everyone should come forward and help.'"

4 Reasons Americans Aren't Giving for Pakistan - International - The Atlantic

4 Reasons Americans Aren't Giving for Pakistan - International - The Atlantic: "The two most common answers are the poor economy and donor fatigue. While they are certainly playing a role, these two factors provide an incomplete picture. The economy was just as bad in January as it is now, with U6 joblessness unchanged and unemployment actually decreasing from 9.7 to 9.5 percent. The much-cited 'donor fatigue' claim argues that people are currently short on expendable cash or even human sympathy after the Haiti earthquake of seven months ago. However, if donor fatigue were really such a powerful force, then the world would not have responded with an overwhelmingly generous $5 billion in aid to the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which occurred just over nine months after the 2004 tsunami. Clearly there is something more at play. Here are four factors more plausibly contributing to the low individual U.S. giving rate in response to the Pakistan floods."

TheSpec - Canada will match donations

TheSpec - Canada will match donations: "OTTAWA - The federal government moved yesterday to kick-start giving for Pakistan flood relief by offering to match private donations, dollar for dollar.
Donations for flood aid made between Aug. 2 and Sept. 12 will be matched by federal money with no upper limit, Government House leader John Baird said."

Australians have charity blind spot on Pakistan

Australians have charity blind spot on Pakistan: "AUSTRALIANS have a ''compassion blind spot'' when it comes to the Pakistan floods, says World Vision Australia chief executive Tim Costello.

World Vision has raised about $785,000 in the three weeks of the Pakistan disaster. At the same stage after the earthquake in Haiti in January, it had raised close to $10 million."

Alyssa Battistoni: Why is aid to Pakistan so slow? Because we're bad at giving.

Alyssa Battistoni: Why is aid to Pakistan so slow? Because we're bad at giving.: "We shouldn't count out these factors entirely. But the disconnect between the amount people donate to disasters and the extent of devastation is nothing new. For all their compassion and generosity, individual donors are unreliable, uninformed, often illogical, and have short attention spans to boot.

Rather than corresponding to the severity of the disaster, the amount of money donated to disaster relief tends to correspond highly to the amount of media coverage. And unfortunately, the amount of media coverage doesn't typically correspond to the severity of the disaster."

Aid only trickles to Pakistan's monsoon disaster - CNN.com

Aid only trickles to Pakistan's monsoon disaster - CNN.com: "Islamabad, Pakistan (CNN) -- Pakistan is reeling from a natural disaster affecting 20 million people but relief groups say donors have been painfully slow in helping.
When a magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti in January, donors responded with $13 billion in aid. Within 24 hours Hollywood mega-stars like George Clooney, Madonna, Tom Cruise and Beyonce had signed up for a telethon to raise money for Haiti's quake victims."

Hillary to pledge more US aid for Pakistan at UN | Pakistan | News | Newspaper | Daily | English | Online

Hillary to pledge more US aid for Pakistan at UN | Pakistan | News | Newspaper | Daily | English | Online: "WASHINGTON (AFP) - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will announce extra aid for a flooded Pakistan Thursday (today) at a UN meeting that will mobilise international support for the country, her spokesman said."

Big Give offers to double donations to support Pakistan flood victims - Third Sector

Big Give offers to double donations to support Pakistan flood victims - Third Sector: "Big Give offers to double donations to support Pakistan flood victims

By Sophie Hudson, Third Sector Online, 13 August 2010

Organisation has more than �70,000 available to give to six appeals

The Big Give is offering to double donations made through its website to the Pakistan flood appeal."

Billions of dollars promised for Haiti fail to materialize - thestar.com

Billions of dollars promised for Haiti fail to materialize - thestar.com: "Nearly seven months after a devastating earthquake killed upwards of 250,000 people in Haiti, UN special envoy to Haiti Bill Clinton told Associated Press on Aug. 6 that international donors have yet to make good on their promises of billions of dollars to help the country rebuild."

Flood aid 'less than generous'

Flood aid 'less than generous': "ISLAMABAD - THE global aid response to the Pakistan floods has so far been much less generous than to other recent natural disasters - despite the soaring numbers of people affected and the prospect of more economic ruin in a country key to the fight against Islamist extremists."

Pakistan floods: Doing good works | Editorial | Comment is free | The Guardian

Pakistan floods: Doing good works | Editorial | Comment is free | The Guardian: "Now, the less inspiring stuff. Although the UK government has promised �31m, and allocated more than half already, the European commission has pledged only a derisory €10m. The UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs is calling for $460m of aid. So far barely a 10th of that total has been pledged. The shortfall is repeated in every current UN appeal. Overall, charitable giving is in decline, and the Department for International Development's tracker survey of public attitudes shows a slow erosion of concern for the world's poor and a sharply increasing concern about corruption and ineffective aid. It might just be the short-term impact of global recession. But it looks more as if it could be the herald of a much bigger shift in opinion."

U.S. builds goodwill with quick assistance in Pakistani flooding

U.S. builds goodwill with quick assistance in Pakistani flooding: "Still, the floods have presented U.S. policymakers with an unusual chance to generate goodwill while providing a much-needed humanitarian service. The floods have affected 14 million people across Pakistan, and the United Nations said Wednesday that nearly half a billion dollars is urgently needed to keep the death toll from soaring past the current 1,600. International aid has so far been inadequate, it said, at less than $100 million."

Donations in Germany frighteningly low as Pakistan relief grows critical | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 13.08.2010

Donations in Germany frighteningly low as Pakistan relief grows critical | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 13.08.2010: "German relief organizations are struggling to collect private donations amid an increasingly desperate situation in flood-stricken Pakistan. The organizations believe Germany's negative view of Pakistan - and poor timing - to be responsible for the giving shortage."

The Associated Press: Pakistan floods fail to spark strong global aid

The Associated Press: Pakistan floods fail to spark strong global aid: "Pakistan floods fail to spark strong global aid

By NAHAL TOOSI (AP) – 2 days ago

ISLAMABAD — The global aid response to the Pakistan floods has so far been much less generous than to other recent natural disasters — despite the soaring numbers of people affected and the prospect of more economic ruin in a country key to the fight against Islamist extremists."

ReliefWeb � Document � Critical lack of funding hampers emergency response in Pakistan; Donations are barely one-quarter of Haiti response

ReliefWeb � Document � Critical lack of funding hampers emergency response in Pakistan; Donations are barely one-quarter of Haiti response: "Critical lack of funding hampers emergency response in Pakistan

Donations are barely one-quarter of Haiti response

Islamabad, Pakistan (Aug. 12, 2010) – A massive shortfall in relief funds for families devastated by floods in Pakistan is hampering the response to a widening emergency that has left 14 million people in need of urgent assistance."

Pakistan flood waters recede as tent cities spring up

Pakistan flood waters recede as tent cities spring up: "Pakistan's government says 14 million people face direct or indirect harm from the floods. The United Nations believes 1,600 people have died in the floods, while Pakistan has confirmed 1,243 deaths.

The United States, which has put Pakistan on the frontline of its war on al-Qaida, announced the deployment of an amphibious assault ship, taking the number of U.S. helicopters available for the relief effort to 19"

Caritas delivers aid on foot in Pakistan flooding | Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand

Caritas delivers aid on foot in Pakistan flooding | Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand: "Caritas delivers aid on foot in Pakistan flooding

Caritas workers in Pakistan are travelling by foot to deliver aid and make assessments in some of the areas worst hit by flooding in northern Pakistan.
“The Caritas network is responding to a massive situation where Pakistan is facing its worst floods on record,” says Director of Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand Michael Smith."

Millions in local aid headed to Pakistan flood victims - thestar.com

Millions in local aid headed to Pakistan flood victims - thestar.com: "Organizers say Torontonians have come together in masses to raise money for the millions of people affected by floods in Pakistan."

Haiti Earthquake Increased Donor Demands for Communication, Involvement : Page 1 of 2 : FundRaising Success

Haiti Earthquake Increased Donor Demands for Communication, Involvement : Page 1 of 2 : FundRaising Success: "When the Haiti earthquake hit back in January, the outcry and response were swift and plentiful. In this new era of the iPhone and other mobile devices, the biggest buzz in the fundraising sector was generated from the mobile-giving explosion following the disaster. But the biggest takeaway for fundraisers — all of them, not just disaster-relief organizations — is that donors have certain, higher expectations these days, and your organization must meet them."

Red Cross Survey Finds Social Media Is Key In Emergency Information - News - @ JEMS.com

Red Cross Survey Finds Social Media Is Key In Emergency Information - News - @ JEMS.com: "WASHINGTON, Monday, August 09, 2010 — A new American Red Cross survey shows many web users would turn to social media to seek help for themselves or others during emergencies—and they expect first responders to be listening."

Oxfam condemns sluggish Pakistan donation response as DEC hits �7m - Civil Society - Fundraising - News - providing news and in-depth coverage of charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profits

Oxfam condemns sluggish Pakistan donation response as DEC hits �7m - Civil Society - Fundraising - News - providing news and in-depth coverage of charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profits: "Oxfam has slammed the sluggish response of international governments to the Pakistan crisis, reporting that the amount pledged amounts to just $3.20 per affected person.

Ten days after the crisis began, $45m has been committed to the relief effort by international governments, compared to the $742m committed by the international community to help the effort in Haiti ten days after the earthquake struck in January this year."

Floods outstrip recent disasters

Floods outstrip recent disasters: "The total number of people hit by Pakistan's flooding had outstripped the more than 3 million affected by the 2005 earthquake, 5 million affected by the tsunami and the 3 million hit by the Haiti quake, he said.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will issue an urgent appeal for several hundred million dollars to respond to Pakistan's immediate needs.

''I appeal for donors to generously support Pakistan at this difficult time,'' he said."

DEC raises �5m for Pakistan Flood appeal - Civil Society - Fundraising - News - providing news and in-depth coverage of charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profits

DEC raises �5m for Pakistan Flood appeal - Civil Society - Fundraising - News - providing news and in-depth coverage of charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profits: "The Disasters Emergency Committee has raised �5m for the emergency relief effort in Pakistan as the country continues to suffer from flooding and monsoons."

Pakistan flood aid pledged, country by country. Visualised data | News | guardian.co.uk

Pakistan flood aid pledged, country by country. Visualised data | News | guardian.co.uk: "Pakistan flood aid pledged, country by country

Pakistan will need millions in aid following the floods. Find out which countries have donated what so far"

Reuters AlertNet - U.N. to appeal for "several hundred million dollars" for Pakistan floods

Reuters AlertNet - U.N. to appeal for "several hundred million dollars" for Pakistan floods: "NEW DELHI (AlertNet) - The United Nations plans to ask donors for 'several hundred million dollars' to help bring relief to millions of Pakistanis hit by the country's worst flooding in 80 years, a U.N. spokesman said."

Gala raises scholarship money for displaced Haitians - thestar.com

Gala raises scholarship money for displaced Haitians - thestar.com: "We wanted to make an investment in youth and education, something tangible that can contribute in years to come,” says Elizabeth Grimmond, chair of Caribana’s gala committee.

Now in its third year, the gala will honour community pioneers, organizers and leaders.

Net proceeds will be donated to a scholarship fund for Haitian students in Canada. The hope is that one day these students will provide expertise to help build a new future fo"

Charity groups say donations for spill victims slow to come | shreveporttimes.com | Shreveport Times

Charity groups say donations for spill victims slow to come | shreveporttimes.com | Shreveport Times: "WASHINGTON — Charitable donations that could be used to help victims of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill are coming in at a trickle, charity groups say."

Three Innovative Ways People Are Helping In Haiti

Three Innovative Ways People Are Helping In Haiti: "Six months after the 7.0 earthquake in Haiti, the need for relief efforts is still at a critical level. Though a true recovery will be years in the making, many organizations continue to look for innovative solutions that will improve lives in the meantime -- and could eventually lead to a more sustainable Haiti.

Check out three of the more creative projects:"

Daniel B. Prieto: Disaster Response 2.0: Learning From Haiti

Daniel B. Prieto: Disaster Response 2.0: Learning From Haiti: "The technologies that came to the fore in Haiti are not new. They include everyday technologies -- mobile phones, online mapping tools, GPS, and social networking. What is new is their use in the humanitarian context at the scale seen in the global response to Haiti's catastrophic quake."

Georgianne Nienaber: Report Questions NGO Accountability in Haiti

Georgianne Nienaber: Report Questions NGO Accountability in Haiti: ". It is now six months post quake and according to a new report by the Disaster Accountability Project (DAP), there is a 'shocking lack of transparency' by relief organizations that have received upwards of $1.3 billion for Haiti aid"

The sad math of U.S. aid in Haiti: 6 months, 2 percent

The sad math of U.S. aid in Haiti: 6 months, 2 percent: "On Monday, six months after the earthquake in Haiti that killed as many as 300,000 people, the Pentagon hosted a 'Bloggers Roundtable' teleconference to release some coordinated and disciplined information about reconstruction in that country. The commander of the U.S. military's task force in Haiti and his deputies delivered some news that should satisfy Gates's wish to have only varnished information coming from the Defense Department."

Partners In Health building new hospital in Haiti - White Coat Notes - Boston.com

Partners In Health building new hospital in Haiti - White Coat Notes - Boston.com: "Partners In Health, the Boston-based global health initiative that has been the face of health care in Haiti after January’s devastating earthquake, is building a new teaching hospital there."

Gulf oil spill expected to dampen giving | Philanthropy Journal

Gulf oil spill expected to dampen giving | Philanthropy Journal: "he loss of charitable contributions could be as high as $300 million this year and could rise to as much as $600 million next year, say data from PhilanthroDEX, an index of charitable giving."

Charities Struggle to Help Haiti Recover - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Charities Struggle to Help Haiti Recover - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "Six months after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, relief organizations have made significant headway in providing basic necessities, such as food and water, but they are drawing criticism for their slow progress in providing temporary shelter and other vital needs."

Red Cross stuck in emergency mode six months after Haitian earthquake - Winnipeg Free Press

Red Cross stuck in emergency mode six months after Haitian earthquake - Winnipeg Free Press: "MONTREAL - The Canadian Red Cross says it is still providing emergency relief in Haiti — almost six months after the earthquake.

It says longer-term recovery operations have been delayed by a shortage of space and an unstable political climate."

2 local groups to host benefit for oil clean-up | TimesDaily.com | The Times Daily | Florence, AL

2 local groups to host benefit for oil clean-up | TimesDaily.com | The Times Daily | Florence, AL: "ocal environmentalists and concerned residents are invited Thursday to commiserate — with checkbooks in hand — over the biggest U.S. oil spill in the Gulf coast.

The Shoals Environmental Alliance and Wild South will cohost a benefit for the Alabama Coastal Foundation — a non-profit organization of Fairhope that is enlisting and training volunteers to help the clean-up effort on the Alabama coast that has been impacted from an oil rig that exploded 78 days ago."

CBC News - World - Brazil flood toll climbs to 51

CBC News - World - Brazil flood toll climbs to 51

Add fundraising to list of challenges presented by gulf oil spill

Add fundraising to list of challenges presented by gulf oil spill: "This month, the Chronicle of Philanthropy reported that more than $4 million had been raised since the deadly tanker explosion in April and resulting oil leak, a fraction of the more than $6 billion donated to the Gulf of Mexico region in the year after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. The oil spill has been called the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history.

For many, the idea of shelling out for a manmade disaster is tough to swallow; some say BP should cover the damage, even as the Gulf Coast Oil Spill Fund, the National Audubon Society, AmeriCares and other organizations have been pumping money into the area for wetlands restoration, animal rescue and help for fishermen and others who have lost jobs."

Post-Katrina: The quest for better emergency shelter | L.A. at Home | Los Angeles Times

Post-Katrina: The quest for better emergency shelter | L.A. at Home | Los Angeles Times: "The American Institute of Architects' Young Architects Forum and Committee on Design called on students and design professionals to develop “temporary/permanent relief housing” to be used following natural disaster. AIA-relief-Community-1Entries were to provide housing for about 500 families on a hypothetical site: 200 acres that included the Houston Astrodome and its vast parking lots."

American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom

American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom: "Evacuees Encouraged to Register on Safe & Well Site

(PHOENIX) June 21, 2010 – Through the Safe and Well website, the Red Cross is helping bring peace of mind to people concerned about loved ones impacted by the Schultz Fire burning near Flagstaff.

People impacted by the wildfire are encouraged to register themselves on the Red Cross Safe and Well site or call a family member to register them. Registration can be done with the Safe and Well feature on redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Friends and family can then search for your message on the Safe and Well site by using the evacuee’s phone number or complete address."

Beverly Bell: Disaster Aid or Aid Disaster? - Haitian's Thoughts on Foreign Assistance

Beverly Bell: Disaster Aid or Aid Disaster? - Haitian's Thoughts on Foreign Assistance: "The international community (here referring to nations and international organizations) has pledged or given $9.9 billion in relief and reconstruction aid to Haiti, since the earthquake on January 12, 2010. Citizens and non-profit agencies of foreign countries have provided billions more. The aid is many times the size of Haiti's annual budget, which was $1.97 billion for the 2009-10 fiscal year.[1]"

Where do you send your donation for an oil spill? | TriCities

Where do you send your donation for an oil spill? | TriCities: "Another disaster, another wave of charities and volunteers trying to help make things right.

This time, however, charities aren’t dealing with something straightforward and terrible like an unavoidable hurricane or earthquake. This time, it’s an oil spill, an entirely man-made problem destroying the environment of the Gulf and the livelihoods of those who rely on it."

BBC News - Bill Gates offers $10m fund for mobile banking in Haiti

BBC News - Bill Gates offers $10m fund for mobile banking in Haiti: "Alongside the billions of pounds worth of aid being pumped into rebuilding Haiti, a new project aims to give Haitians control over their own cash.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has created a $10m (�7m) fund for mobile banking services in the country."

Call to improve Asia-Pacific relief coordination - �Latest news around the world and developments close to home - MSN Malaysia News

Call to improve Asia-Pacific relief coordination - �Latest news around the world and developments close to home - MSN Malaysia News: "Call to improve Asia-Pacific relief coordination

Asia-Pacific nations should adopt a more coordinated response to relief operations in the disaster-prone area, top regional officials said at a security conference on Sunday."

Albert Lea Tribune | How does Red Cross respond to international disasters?

Albert Lea Tribune | How does Red Cross respond to international disasters?: "The recent earthquakes in Chile and Haiti have brought a lot of attention to the international side of American Red Cross disaster responses. Here is some information on what the Red Cross does, and what is being done in those countries."

How You Can Help Wildlife Impacted by the BP Oil Spill - National Wildlife Federation

How You Can Help Wildlife Impacted by the BP Oil Spill - National Wildlife Federation: "The catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico caused by the April 20, 2010 explosion of an offshore oil rig has put local economies, wildlife and the Gulf's delicate coastal ecosystem at risk. This could be one of the worst environmental disasters in our nation's history. Our immediate task is clear: all resources of British Petroleum, federal and state government and even the U.S. military must be deployed to cap the well, contain the spill and minimize the damage to one of our nation's crown jewels: the Mississippi Delta."

Philanthropic Response to Gulf Oil Disaster: Is It Enough? | onPhilanthropy

Philanthropic Response to Gulf Oil Disaster: Is It Enough? | onPhilanthropy: "While the catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico continues amidst growing anger at British Petroleum – and the Federal government’s inability to force a resolution to the disaster – nonprofit organizations have shifted into action for the longer term, raising money they say will help real people affected by the spill. Yet the response, at least to date, is nothing like the level of previous disasters."

The Associated Press: Red Cross: Haiti struggling 4 months after quake

The Associated Press: Red Cross: Haiti struggling 4 months after quake: "GENEVA — Haiti is still struggling to provide homes, sanitation and basic health care to hundreds of thousands affected by the earthquake four months ago, the country's top Red Cross official said Thursday.

The Caribbean nation was ill-prepared for the devastating temblor that hit the island Jan. 12, killing up to 300,000 people and leaving many more wounded and homeless, the president of the Haitian Red Cross Society said."

PND - News - Aid Groups in Haiti Criticized for Not Spending Fast Enough

PND - News - Aid Groups in Haiti Criticized for Not Spending Fast Enough: "Aid Groups in Haiti Criticized for Not Spending Fast Enough

Although billions of dollars have been donated to charities involved in relief efforts in earthquake-ravaged Haiti, more than 1.5 million Haitians remain homeless four months after the quake struck, raising questions about why the money isn't being spent faster, CBS News reports."

Volunteer info for Gulf oil spill - Greenpeace USA Blog

Volunteer info for Gulf oil spill - Greenpeace USA Blog: "UPDATE: It's extremely important at this point that we do everything we can to prevent the next oil spill from ever happening. Take action now to tell Congress: No drilling, no coal, clean energy now! And if you want to do even more, check out this post I put up over on our Grassroots Blog to find toolkits for holding rallies in your community, writing letters to the editor of your local paper, and more: Want to help prevent the next
catastrophic oil spill?"

$1.1-Billion Donated for Haiti Relief - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

$1.1-Billion Donated for Haiti Relief - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "Nearly four months after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, donors have contributed more than $1.1-billion to support relief efforts.

Donors gave approximately $66-million of that total in response to a star-studded telethon that was broadcast on major television networks in January. Organizers awarded $35-million in grants on February 5."

News outlets play pivotal role when disaster strikes | tennessean.com | The Tennessean

News outlets play pivotal role when disaster strikes | tennessean.com | The Tennessean: "As Tennesseans begin the monumental recovery from record flood damage, it seems appropriate that we take a moment to recognize the pivotal lifeline role played by local radio and television broadcasters to keep residents safe and informed over the last several days."

Wyclef Jean aims to keep Haiti earthquake relief at forefront - USATODAY.com

Wyclef Jean aims to keep Haiti earthquake relief at forefront - USATODAY.com: "Award-winning musician Wyclef Jean fears that people are suffering a bit of Haiti fatigue and putting the needs of earthquake victims in the backs of their minds more than three months after the quake.

Jean is starting new relief initiatives, including housing aid and amputee rehabilitation, and says more needs to be done."

SKNVibes.com News: Red Cross donates over US$60 000 to Haiti earthquake relief

SKNVibes.com News: Red Cross donates over US$60 000 to Haiti earthquake relief: "BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE St. Kitts Red Cross (SKRC) has donated over US$60 000 to the Haitian relief effort, following the devastating January 12 earthquake that left 230 000 dead and some one million homeless.

According to the President of the SKRC, Dr. Reginald O’Loughlin, the organisation filed the requisite information with the International Red Cross Society (IRCS) earlier this month and the funds are expected to be transferred by the end of next week."

Philadelphia Catholics donate $1.8 million to Haitian quake relief efforts :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)

Philadelphia Catholics donate $1.8 million to Haitian quake relief efforts :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): "Philadelphia, Pa., May 5, 2010 / 07:55 pm (CNA).- Cardinal Justin Rigali presented a check for over $1.8 million to the president of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) on Wednesday for aid efforts for earthquake victims in Haiti. He declared the gift an expression of “very beautiful and profound love.”

The Archbishop of Philadelphia presented the check to CRS president Ken Hackett at Incarnation of Our Lord Parish in the Olney section of Philadelphia."

Springdale students begin humanitarian group

Springdale students begin humanitarian group: "Khiree is one of 20 students in Flowers' Student Humanitarian Organization, which three of the students founded in January in response to the Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti."

"British Petroleum (BP) and state and local government entities contacted The Salvation Army this weekend for our help in supporting thousands of volunteers who are responding to the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. As the oil approaches the Mississippi and Louisiana coasts, The Salvation Army deployed teams to Ocean Springs, Mississippi and Venice, Louisiana to handout water to the throngs of individuals who are participating in the clean-up efforts.

The Salvation Army is continuing discussions with involved governments and BP to find additional ways to support the clean-up efforts.

Be sure to follow The Salvation Army’s Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi Division’s Facebook and Twitter accounts, which they are frequently updating with volunteer information and news of their latest efforts. You can also find more information at their website www.salvationarmyalm.org"

Gulf of Mexico oil spill: Once again, US military gets the call - CSMonitor.com

Gulf of Mexico oil spill: Once again, US military gets the call - CSMonitor.com: "The Gulf of Mexico oil spill once again puts the US military in the role of white knight, as it provides assistance in the cleanup and state officials look to it to pay the bill."

As Gulf of Mexico oil spill hits land, residents decry response - CSMonitor.com

As Gulf of Mexico oil spill hits land, residents decry response - CSMonitor.com: "People in New Orleans and Louisiana have seen what I would label two tremendous disaster-response failures in five years, and it's like déjà vu all over again,' says Steven Picou, a sociologist at the University of South Alabama in Mobile who has studied the social effects of both the Exxon Valdez disaster and hurricane Katrina.' It adds to the perception that our government and agencies don't care,' he says, 'and that mistrust trickles down so now you don't trust BP, you don't trust the Coast Guard, you don't trust what people are telling you, and you don't even trust your neighbors or even your family.'"

Reuters AlertNet - Myanmar: Two years after cyclone Nargis - Malteser International: Ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the country

Reuters AlertNet - Myanmar: Two years after cyclone Nargis - Malteser International: Ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the country: "ologne. 'The majority of the people are still struggling for daily survival. A lot of them do not yet have a solid source of income', reports Sandra Harlass, Senior Desk Officer Myanmar of Malteser International, the relief service of the Order of Malta for worldwide humanitarian aid. 'The present situation cannot be compared to the life and income situation before cyclone Nargis hit the country on 2 Mai 2008. To give an example: At the moment, no one can afford to buy drinking water.' Therefore, at request of the government and the affected population Malteser International distributes purified drinking water by boats to areas with acute water shortage in the dry seasons."

Volunteerism Law Gets Off to Slow Start - Philanthropy Today - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Volunteerism Law Gets Off to Slow Start - Philanthropy Today - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "Volunteerism Law Gets Off to Slow Start

A year after President Obama signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, little of the money set aside to create volunteer opportunities nationwide has been distributed, says National Public Radio."

See the country, at 35 mph driving a backhoe | Local News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

See the country, at 35 mph driving a backhoe | Local News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California: "Neil Smith won't win the Nobel Peace Prize for driving a backhoe across the United States to raise money for the Haiti earthquake relief fund.

But Smith and his compatriots will have tales of Lewis & Clark-like perseverance and the heartfelt sincerity of donors to pass on to their friends and families back in Georgia, where they started."

Bill Clinton focuses efforts on Haiti's higher education - USATODAY.com

Bill Clinton focuses efforts on Haiti's higher education - USATODAY.com: "CORAL GABLES, Fla. — As he prepares to help oversee $5 billion in reconstruction spending in Haiti, former president Bill Clinton paints a challenging but hopeful picture. There's much to do: Haitians displaced by the magnitude-7 earthquake in January need sturdy housing, nutritious food and clean water, to name the basics."

What the International Community Can Do For Haiti | UN Dispatch

What the International Community Can Do For Haiti | UN Dispatch: "just returned from a visit to Haiti as part of a Congressional delegation to observe the earthquake relief effort and meet with officials from the UN mission, MINUSTAH, and the US Embassy. Despite the renewed awareness of Haiti’s problems, accounts in the press still seem to point to the earthquake as the source of the country’s present woes. But one can quickly see that it is a country that is as much stricken by poverty and instability as it is earthquake-stricken. Indeed, the earthquake destroyed what was already a precarious economic and political situation, albeit one that was on the path to rebuilding."

China TV show raises $440m

China TV show raises $440m: "BEIJING - A CHINESE television charity show on Tuesday evening raised 2.175 billion yuan ($440 million) to help victims of last week's earthquake in remote Qinghai province, state media reported."

8-year-old violinist, Brianna Kahane, uses talent to save music school in Haiti

8-year-old violinist, Brianna Kahane, uses talent to save music school in Haiti: "The young musician decided she needed to do something to help. She had performed several times in the past for charity, and so decided to hold a benefit concert in Florida for Joseph after visiting him in the hospital.

In addition to money, Brianna hopes to collect instruments and other materials to help him rebuild his school through her Web site, briannakahane.com."

Hong Kong volunteer worker gives his life to charity CCTV-International

Hong Kong volunteer worker gives his life to charity CCTV-International: "The strong earthquake, which happened in Yushu County, Qinghai Province on April 14, buried Wong, who at the time was doing volunteer work in the area, in the ruins. When the heavy news came out, it moved the entire nation. On April 15, the people of Lanzhou, who had been tightly bound to Wong, held a 'Mourning Wong Fu-wing, a Hong Kong Volunteer' gathering beside the Yangtze River."

Google Offers Satellite Images of Chinese Earthquake

Google Offers Satellite Images of Chinese Earthquake: "The earthquake in Qinghai last Tuesday killed hundreds and injured thousands more, leveling many of the buildings around the city. As with last time, Google is working with GeoEye to provide high resolution satellite images, which you can download and view using Google Earth."

Reuters AlertNet - Direct Relief Commits Up to $100,000 for China Quake Relief

Reuters AlertNet - Direct Relief Commits Up to $100,000 for China Quake Relief: "Direct Relief International has allocated up to $100,000 in cash to support the emergency response in China and Tibet following the earthquake in Qinghai Province April 15. A portion of those funds will finance the travel of three partner groups sending medical and assessment teams into the affected region, including Yushu."

Oxfam Hong Kong assists Chinese earthquake survivors

Oxfam Hong Kong assists Chinese earthquake survivors: "Oxfam Hong Kong has provided its first batch of aid to individuals affected by the Qinghai earthquake.

According to the charity, it has distributed blankets to some 2,000 individuals at a temporary camp in Jiegu, Yushu County."

China quake death toll tops 1,100 - CNN.com

China quake death toll tops 1,100 - CNN.com: "The death toll in the China earthquake now stands at 1,114, relief officials said on Friday as rescuers continued to race against the clock to pull survivors from the rubble."

The Nassau Guardian Online Guide

The Nassau Guardian Online Guide: "Mr. Barry explained to me his first reaction on how he immediately helped Haiti after its recent disaster.

In a subdued tone he said, 'I remember jumping into my jeep and my wife Yvette following in her car and making our first stop at Robin Hood, where I purchased all the cases of water that was on the floor, all of the 20 pound bags of rice, all the baby formula and all of the corn beef that was on the shelves.' 'We then went to Bahamas Food Service, where my friend Audley Aritis met me with his flat bed truck and I purchased one hundred 50 pound bags of black beans and one hundred 50 pound bags of rice.' And with a faint smile he uttered, 'And then we visited Lowe's Pharmacy and purchased medication and medical supplies.' 'God bless the owner of Lowes, Billy, and his doctor for helping me.'"

GlobalGiving.org's Mari Kuraishi on personalized philanthropy driven by natural disasters - Boing Boing

GlobalGiving.org's Mari Kuraishi on personalized philanthropy driven by natural disasters - Boing Boing: "just spoke to Mari Kuraishi, founder of GlobalGiving.org, about how the recent surge in natural disasters has affected donor behavior."

The Nonprofit Quarterly | Nonprofit Newswire | Mississippi: Katrina Volunteers Still at Work

The Nonprofit Quarterly | Nonprofit Newswire | Mississippi: Katrina Volunteers Still at Work: "Nonprofit Newswire | Mississippi: Katrina Volunteers Still at Work
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Rick Cohen

April 12, 2010; USA Today | As public attention to the disaster of Hurricane Katrina has been superseded by other natural and manmade disasters, people may not realize that areas of the Gulf Coast are still in need of reconstruction and redevelopment and people are still living in temporary housing. In Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, Lutheran Episcopal Services is still on the job."

Poll: More donated to Haiti than to Chile after quakes - USATODAY.com

Poll: More donated to Haiti than to Chile after quakes - USATODAY.com: "Nearly half of the people responding to a recent USA TODAY/Gallup Poll said the destruction and poverty in Haiti after a massive earthquake Jan. 12 moved them to donate money to the country's relief efforts.

Less than one-third said they made donations to relief in Chile when it was struck by an earthquake a month later."

The Almanac.net

The Almanac.net: "When two fifth-graders heard about the devastating earthquake in Haiti, they knew they wanted to help out.

Cassie Wangler and Jordan Underwood, students at Our Lady of Grace School in Scott Township, came up with an unusual way to contribute to the Haitians. They decided to make homemade soap of various shapes and scents to sell at Our Lady of Grace Church. The money collected was sent to Haiti, along with revenue collected at other school fundraisers."

Princeton University - Ambassador stresses need to build 'new Haiti'

Princeton University - Ambassador stresses need to build 'new Haiti': "Haiti's ambassador to the United States, Raymond Joseph, stressed to a group gathered at Princeton University the need to construct a 'new Haiti' following January's devastating earthquake -- with a focus on decentralization and foreign investment."

Rotary.org: News

Rotary.org: News: "Rotarians in Haiti are laying the groundwork for the next phase of the recovery process: sustainable restoration projects that will enable long-term rehabilitation to begin."

Maximizing disaster-response giving | Philanthropy Journal

Maximizing disaster-response giving | Philanthropy Journal: "he recent earthquake in Haiti has once again brought to the forefront the role that new giving channels play in helping those most affected by disasters.

The combination of online giving and mobile giving were the first response channels of choice by donors. Other giving channels like direct mail simply take too long to help with short-term needs."

Transparent Aid for Haiti's Reconstruction: Capture Matters - Brookings Institution

Transparent Aid for Haiti's Reconstruction: Capture Matters - Brookings Institution: "March 30, 2010 —
On Wednesday, March 31, international donors will convene at the United Nations to discuss Haiti’s long-term reconstruction plans and to make assistance pledges. The publicly disseminated Action Plan for Reconstruction and National Development of Haiti, produced by the government of Haiti with inputs from the U.N., European Commission, the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank and civil society, has assessed Haiti’s reconstruction needs over the next three years at $11.5 billion. The Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA), produced by a collaborative effort involving 300 Haitian and international experts, and on which the Haitian government’s Action Plan is based, has not been publicly disclosed, but is expected to be presented at the donor conference"

Pledges of billions expected at UN donor conference on Haiti - Bulgaria abroad - The Sofia Echo

Pledges of billions expected at UN donor conference on Haiti - Bulgaria abroad - The Sofia Echo: "A United Nations’ donor conference in New York on March 31 2010 was expected to see pledges of billions of dollars to help Haiti emerge from the aftermath of the devastating January 12 earthquake, while European aid commissioner Kristalina Georgieva has said that it is not money on its own that matters, but the good that it will do.

Georgieva made the comment in a blog shortly before the donors’ conference."

Haiti relief gets surplus Vancouver Olympic medical supplies

Haiti relief gets surplus Vancouver Olympic medical supplies: "Victims of the earthquake that ravaged Haiti on Jan. 12 will get the benefit of medical and dental supplies left over from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games."

Actor and Community Activist Advises Grant Makers - Conference Notebook - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Actor and Community Activist Advises Grant Makers - Conference Notebook - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "A native New Orleanian, Mr. Pierce formed the Pontchartrain Park Community Development Corporation to help the historic African American neighborhood where he grew up rebuild after Hurricance Katrina.

He told grant makers gathered in New Orleans that foundations and nonprofit organization have distinct roles to play in rebuilding.

'If you are that interested in telling us what to do, then by all means join us on this side of the fence,' said Mr. Pierce. 'Otherwise, help us do what we're doing.'"

Hurricane Katrina response evaluated by philanthropists | - NOLA.com

Hurricane Katrina response evaluated by philanthropists | - NOLA.com: "s the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches, philanthropists from around the country are gathered in New Orleans this week to determine where they succeeded and where they failed in responding to communities devastated by the storm."

BBC World Service - News - Haiti earthquake: Volunteers take mobile cinema round camps

BBC World Service - News - Haiti earthquake: Volunteers take mobile cinema round camps: "As part of the Haiti Kids Kino Project, a two-man team are using a generator, makeshift screen and a selection of movies to bring entertainment to earthquake survivo"

Student secures $10,000 donation for Red Cross | The Crimson White

Student secures $10,000 donation for Red Cross | The Crimson White: "Thanks to the efforts of one UA student, the University Community Service Center presented a $10,000 donation to the West Alabama Chapter of the American Red Cross Tuesday.

The band Three Doors Down’s charity The Better Life Foundation gave the donation. The Better Life Foundation is a nonprofit organization that focuses on helping children and young adults. The donation will go directly to supporting the crisis in Haiti."

How To Rebuild A Life In Haiti : NPR

How To Rebuild A Life In Haiti : NPR: "And we're going to end this part of the program with a look at Haiti two months after the earthquake. NPR's Katia Riddle has the story of three Haitians who are trying to rebuild their lives."