UNITAR/UNOSAT and Google aim to provide map data for improved disaster and humanitarian response - Directions Magazine

UNITAR/UNOSAT and Google aim to provide map data for improved disaster and humanitarian response - Directions Magazine: "fter years of successful collaboration, UNITAR/UNOSAT (the operational satellite applications programme of UNITAR) and Google have strengthened their collaboration by signing an agreement that will give the crisis response and humanitarian community increased access to Google Map Maker source data for use in their disaster response and humanitarian activities, in more than 150 countries around the world.*"

7-Eleven Raises $40 Million for Japan Disaster Relief | NACS Online > News & Media Center > News

7-Eleven Raises $40 Million for Japan Disaster Relief | NACS Online > News & Media Center > News: "DALLAS – The 7-Eleven Inc. global convenience retailing organization raised more than $40 million in donations as of June 30 to assist victims devastated by the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami in Japan."

Japan's Red Cross Gets Donations From Vending Machines - Prospecting - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Japan's Red Cross Gets Donations From Vending Machines - Prospecting - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "f only charitable giving was as easy as buying a Coke at a vending machine. Well, now it is—at least in Japan.

A Coca-Cola bottling company in Japan and the country’s Red Cross have joined together to enable people to make donations by putting money into a vending machine, which in Japan is a popular way to buy items like mobile phones and food."

SGGP English Edition- First ASEAN disaster relief exercise ends

SGGP English Edition- First ASEAN disaster relief exercise ends: "First ASEAN disaster relief exercise ends
The first ASEAN humanitarian and disaster relief exercise, in Indonesia ’s West Java , ended on July 15, local media reported.

The three-day exercise, co-hosted by the Singaporean and Indonesian armed forces, was attended by more than 100 military personnel ASEAN member countries."

infoZine - SBA May Help Churches, Nonprofits, Associations - Kansas City, Missouri News

infoZine - SBA May Help Churches, Nonprofits, Associations - Kansas City, Missouri News: "The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Individuals and Households program provides disaster assistance grants to individuals, while FEMA's Public Assistance program reimburses local and state government agencies and certain private nonprofit organizations performing government type services for repairs to eligible disaster-damaged infrastructure.

The best option for most churches, nonprofit organizations and homeowner associations to rebuild may be through low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)."

Japan OKs more disaster relief money | euronews, economy

Japan OKs more disaster relief money | euronews, economy: "Japan’s cabinet has approved an additional 17.4 billion euros for disaster relief following the March earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster."

Non-profit organisations in Japan: Charity at home | The Economist

Non-profit organisations in Japan: Charity at home | The Economist: "The disaster brought about a surge of volunteerism in Japan, as did the Kobe earthquake in 1995. Around 480,000 volunteers from non-profit organisations (NPOs as they are known) streamed into the Tohoku region. Yet the figure might have been higher had the government not advised people to keep away and made life hard for those relief organisations that showed up anyway.

Japan has long been uneasy about non-profit organisations. It lacks a tradition of private philanthropy. Support for the needy is often expected to come from the family. Officials tend to regard NPOs as meddlesome amateurs."

Internship program offers disaster relief | The Crimson White

Internship program offers disaster relief | The Crimson White: "More than 70 students are participating in the Disaster Relief Internship Program throughout the summer at various relief agencies like Temporary Emergency Services, Project Team-Up, Project Blessings and the City of Tuscaloosa Planning and Development Offices.

The local organizations utilizing the interns do not normally hire interns, so this summer’s opportunities are exceptional, Program Coordinator William McCracken said."

The Church and Disaster Relief: Shelter from the Stormy Blast | Acton Institute

The Church and Disaster Relief: Shelter from the Stormy Blast | Acton Institute: "With government assistance often bureaucratic and slow to respond, Christian charity and church organizations are a vital source of relief and comfort. 'Pastors usually know their community better than government officials . . . While the government talks about systems and infrastructure problems, faith-based organizations are able to provide immediate assistance thanks to established relationships with churches on the ground,' said Franklin Graham, CEO and president of Samaritan's Purse."

WAMC: Volunteers Assess Tornado Damage To Historic Properties (2011-07-05)

WAMC: Volunteers Assess Tornado Damage To Historic Properties (2011-07-05): "The Springfield Preservation Trust and Preservation Massachusetts have collaborated to try to assess what the devastating tornadoes did to Springfield's historic treasures. Volunteers armed with spread sheets that list the addresses of historic districts are going up and down streets in the hard hit Maple High, Six Corners and South End neighborhoods doing what's called a sidewalk assessment..
That's Carol de Carlo, one of the volunteers with the Springfield Preservation Trust. On a recent afternoon she was noting for the record the appearance of century old Victorian mansions that sit on the former campus of the McDuffie School high up a hill overlooking downtown Springfield and the Connecticut River."

Editorial: Western Massachusetts can be proud of tornado response | masslive.com

Editorial: Western Massachusetts can be proud of tornado response | masslive.com: "Last Wednesday, the MassMutual Center shelter – staffed by the American Red Cross of Pioneer Valley – closed its doors after 30 days of ministering to the needs of hundreds of families who lost their homes after the June 1 tornado. On Friday, a shelter operating out of the Eastern States Exposition, was also winding down its post-tornado operations. More than 1,000 victims were registered at the shelters in Springfield and West Springfield."

Red Cross closes Joplin shelter for tornado survivors - Neosho, MO - Neosho Daily News

Red Cross closes Joplin shelter for tornado survivors - Neosho, MO - Neosho Daily News: "Joplin, Mo. —

The American Red Cross closed its disaster relief shelter Friday.

Red Cross officials said the agency is transitioning its efforts from immediate disaster relief efforts to long-term recovery. The closure comes about five weeks after a tornado on May 22 devastated about 30 percent of the community. Officials said while a number of people have stayed at the shelter initially, those numbers have dwindled as people found suitable accommodations. The last few people staying at the shelter have left, officials said."

Crisis Mapping Helps with Disaster Relief | Science and Technology | English

Crisis Mapping Helps with Disaster Relief | Science and Technology | English: "After devastating natural disasters, mobile phone networks, satellites and other computer software are often used to help to pinpoint where help is needed the most. They are crucial for the creation of crisis maps."

ESPN's John Anderson extends philanthropy to Joplin schools | Campus Corner

ESPN's John Anderson extends philanthropy to Joplin schools | Campus Corner: "ESPN’s John Anderson, a 1987 Mizzou School of Journalism graduate who is already the founder of the Anderson Family Charitable foundation that benefits The Food Bank of central and northeast Missouri and the Columbia public schools, is extending the reach of that philanthropy to include the tornado relief effort in Joplin."

Former President Clinton announces help for tornado-ravaged Joplin during Chicago jobs summit - The Washington Post

Former President Clinton announces help for tornado-ravaged Joplin during Chicago jobs summit - The Washington Post: "CHICAGO — Former President Bill Clinton had some good jobs news Wednesday for Joplin, as the southwest Missouri city works to recover from a devastating tornado.

During a Clinton Global Initiative conference in Chicago, the Democrat announced that the Macon, Mo.-based outsourcing firm Onshore Technology Services plans to create 1,000 jobs in rural Missouri over the next five years with a focus on Joplin. The company trains people, including those who are underemployed or have lost manufacturing jobs, for new careers in information technology."

Mass. tornado claims rises to $175 million - Boston.com

Mass. tornado claims rises to $175 million - Boston.com: "BOSTON—The financial toll from tornadoes that ravaged Springfield and several smaller Massachusetts communities has risen to an estimated $175 million.



The state's Division of Insurance estimated Wednesday that residents and businesses have filed 9,500 insurance claims for damage caused by the June 1 tornadoes, making it the state's costliest natural disaster in recent memory."

UK aid agencies raised �71m for Pakistan flood relief | Mark Tran | Global development | guardian.co.uk

UK aid agencies raised �71m for Pakistan flood relief | Mark Tran | Global development | guardian.co.uk: "UK aid agencies raised �71m in their Pakistan floods appeal last year, the third highest amount raised for a humanitarian disaster, according to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), the umbrella organisation of British humanitarian groups."

Kingston design students address disaster relief | London | Creative Boom Magazine

Kingston design students address disaster relief | London | Creative Boom Magazine: "The spate of natural catastrophes that has dominated the headlines so far this year has prompted Kingston University students to come up with creative new ways to assist both victims and aid workers in disaster zones."

Iowa Comm Foun dations-Flood Relief

"Both the Fremont County and Mills County community foundations in Iowa, affiliates of the Omaha Community Foundation, have started flood relief funds for residents affected by the flooding. From these funds, 100 percent of the money will be distributed to"

Gala raises $10,000 for Joplin | Collaborate Meetings

Gala raises $10,000 for Joplin | Collaborate Meetings: "Gala raises $10,000 for Joplin

In three weeks, planners for Show Me Support for Joplin: A Red Tie Affair chose a location (Washington, D.C.’s Union Station) and a theme (a “Top Chef”-style event featuring local and national chefs recreating a Joplin, Mo., favorite), and recruited more than 100 guests, including fellow event professionals and legislators, to the event supporting of the victims of the tornado that hit Joplin May 22. Contributions from the June 13 gala totaled more than $10,000, and organizers continue to raise funds, aiming for a $50,000 goal by the end of the campaign. All proceeds go to for the Joplin Area Habitat For Humanity"

"The Kansas City Chiefs today announced merchandise sales to further benefit disaster relief efforts in Missouri and Kansas. The team will be selling specially-designed baseball hats, cotton t-shirts and performance t-shirts. All net proceeds from sales will be donated to help victims of the tornados in Misso"

Ellen DeGeneres’ Halo Pet Foundation Grants $70,000 for Disaster Relief; Supports Animal Rescue in Tornado-Ravaged South with Funds Raised at PETCO Foundation Gala

PRESS RELEASE

Ellen DeGeneres’ Halo Pet Foundation Grants $70,000 for Disaster Relief; Supports Animal Rescue in Tornado-Ravaged South with Funds Raised at PETCO Foundation Gala: "In response to the crises caused by tornados and flooding in the south, the Halo Pet Foundation announced $70,000 in emergency disaster relief grants to eight animal welfare organizations serving communities in dire need."

Mangalorean.Com- Serving Mangaloreans Around The World!

Mangalorean.Com- Serving Mangaloreans Around The World!: "(IANS) In a bid to win the hearts of the Myanmarese,

India Tuesday dedicated 10 disaster-proof rice silos with a 5,000-tonne storage capacity to ensure people don't go hungry during cyclones and floods.

External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, on the penultimate day of a three-day visit, inaugurated here the silos India funded with a $2-million grant in the presence of Myanmarese Commerce Minister Win Myint.

The silos are capable of withstanding wind speeds of 150 km per hour and are earthquake resistant up to eight on the Richter scale. For flood prevention, the silos are built on plinths two metres from the ground."

How Reach A Child Crowd-sources books for Joplin

How Reach A Child Crowd-sources books for Joplin: "On a Tuesday afternoon after several conference calls, I glanced at my twitter feed and saw this:

tweet about joplin How Reach A Child crowdsourced books for Joplin



And so began a journey fueled by Twitter and Facebook that allowed us at REACH a Child to ship 2 pallets of children’s books to Joplin, MO."

Poster of the South Island, New Zealand Earthquake of 13 June 2011 - Magnitude 6.0

Poster of the South Island, New Zealand Earthquake of 13 June 2011 - Magnitude 6.0: "The June 13, 2011 South Island, New Zealand earthquake is a continuing part of the earthquake sequence that initiated with the magnitude 7.0 September 3, 2010 Darfield, New Zealand earthquake"

Presidents issues disaster declaration for Nebraska flooding along Missouri, Platte rivers - The Washington Post

Presidents issues disaster declaration for Nebraska flooding along Missouri, Platte rivers - The Washington Post: "WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Barack Obama has issued an emergency disaster declaration for 18 Nebraska counties for flooding along the Missouri and Platte rivers.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced the declaration Saturday. It was requested Friday by Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman."

How One Activist Raised over $36,000 for Disaster Relief on Causes

How One Activist Raised over $36,000 for Disaster Relief on Causes: "Scott went on to Causes and created a cause for disaster relief in Alabama, selecting his local Red Cross, the Mid-Alabama Chapter, as the recipient of his fundraising efforts. According to Scott, about “50% of all donations after a disaster occur within the first 24 hours,” so it was imperative that he take action quickly. Within just 10 minutes, Scott had created a Cause, and within 24 hours he had raised over $10,000 for disaster relief."

Taiwan donates $20,000 to help with disaster relief effort | NewsOK.com

Taiwan donates $20,000 to help with disaster relief effort | NewsOK.com: "Taiwan is providing $20,000 to help residents in its sister state of Oklahoma recover from recent tornadoes."

UOG to Present $14K check to Japan Disaster Relief on TOMORROW

UOG to Present $14K check to Japan Disaster Relief on TOMORROW: "Guam - The University of Guam students, faculty and staff will present a check for $14,127 to support the Japan Disaster Relief effort to Ken Haga, President of U.S. Explore & Study tomorrow, Wednesday June 15 at 9:30am in the Leon Guerrero School of Business and Public Administration Bldg, President’s Conference Room. Haga will ensure the funds are provided directly to the relief effort in Fukushima through the purchase of goods in Fukushima which will then be provided to relief workers and earthquake and tsunami victims.


- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Mass. family finds all 7 cats alive after tornado - Forbes.com

Mass. family finds all 7 cats alive after tornado - Forbes.com: "MONSON, Mass. -- A Massachusetts family whose home was destroyed by the tornadoes that struck the state on June 1 has found all seven of its cats alive.

- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Avon Piano Students Raise Money for Massachusetts Tornado Victims - Farmington, CT Patch

Avon Piano Students Raise Money for Massachusetts Tornado Victims - Farmington, CT Patch: "laying music is not about showing off, according to Benita Rose. It's about helping people.

Nine of her piano students did just that Sunday, raising $155 for the Massachussetts tornado victims through a benefit recital at Avon Congregational Church, where Rose serves as director of music ministries.

Giving grows but expected to slow | Philanthropy Journal

Giving grows but expected to slow | Philanthropy Journal: "Fueling the increase in March, the report says, were strong growth in the stock market and continued growth in the economy, mainly the result of 'growing corporate success and the sustained rise in stock values,' Philanthromax says.

And giving for relief in the wake of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami provided an extra boost.

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Christchurch earthquake: Update - Third aftershock even bigger - Local News - Rotorua Daily Post

Christchurch earthquake: Update - Third aftershock even bigger - Local News - Rotorua Daily Post: "Buildings have been evacuated and at least two people rescued from a collapsed church as Christchurch was rocked by a number of aftershocks, the largest measuring 6.0 in magnitude.

Further big aftershocks continue to rock the city, as reports flow in of further building collapses and building damage."

Red Cross collects $1M for Mass. tornado relief - BostonHerald.com

Red Cross collects $1M for Mass. tornado relief - BostonHerald.com: "SPRINGFIELD -- The Red Cross says it has raised about $1 million already to help the victims of the tornadoes earlier this month in western and central Massachusetts, but there is still more work to be done."

House Speaker creates a committe on disaster relief (AUDIO)

House Speaker creates a committe on disaster relief (AUDIO): "House Speaker Steve Tilley says his Interim Committee on Disaster Recovery will survey the areas affected by several natural disasters. He says this is not only reactive to tornado victims in St. Louis and Joplin,"

First Baptist relief team headed to Japan | first, baptist, headed - Brownsville Herald

First Baptist relief team headed to Japan | first, baptist, headed - Brownsville Herald: "The First Baptist Church Brownsville Disaster Relief Team is headed to Japan Sunday afternoon to help with the earthquake and tsunami restoration.

The trained group of six is preparing for the trip by relying on faith and experience from previous disaster relief trips to Haiti, Chile and Mexico."

Editorial: Weathering the Massachusetts tornado disaster with the community's help | masslive.com

Editorial: Weathering the Massachusetts tornado disaster with the community's help | masslive.com: "It took only a hour and 10 minutes for the June 1 tornado to weave its 39-mile path of destruction across Western Massachusetts, but it will take days, weeks, months, years – and even decades – for devastated neighborhoods to return to some sense of normalcy."

Senators worry disaster fund could run dry | Shreveporttimes | shreveporttimes.com

Senators worry disaster fund could run dry | Shreveporttimes | shreveporttimes.com: "WASHINGTON — With Gulf Coast states still reeling from recent disasters and bracing for the 2011 hurricane season, congressional lawmakers from Mississippi and other states are worried disaster relief funding may run short by early next year."

U of M raising money to keep Haitian students here who are studying social work

U of M raising money to keep Haitian students here who are studying social work: "He still wanted to achieve his goal of teaching and training social workers, and was thrilled when he was chosen to come to Quebec to study.

Thanks to co-operation between the Universit�d’�tat d’Haiti and Universit�de Montr�al, LeRoy and 14 other students were chosen to continue their studies here last fall and were supposed to return to Haiti to finish up."

Rory McIlroy puts U.S. Open preparation on hold for ‘inspiring’ two-day trip to earthquake-ravaged Haiti - The Washington Post

Rory McIlroy puts U.S. Open preparation on hold for ‘inspiring’ two-day trip to earthquake-ravaged Haiti - The Washington Post: "Monday morning, McIlroy flew to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on a goodwill mission for UNICEF. Since returning, he has changed his Twitter profile picture from a photo of him, as a toddler with a golf club, to one of him, as a smiling young man holding a smiling Hatian child. He has considered, over and over, what he saw a full 18 months after a devastating, 7.0-magnitude earthquake ravaged an already poverty-stricken country."

How Social Media Can Aid Disaster Relief

How Social Media Can Aid Disaster Relief: "But it's also become more clear that Facebook, and other social media services, like Twitter, can be used for good. This is perhaps most apparent in social media's role in disaster relief."

Lapsed Donors Deliver

Lapsed Donors Deliver

Engage365 - Clever people sharing ideas to make events better

Engage365 - Clever people sharing ideas to make events better: "You may know KiKi L’Italien as the moderator of Association Chat (#assnchat), or as host of the webcast, The Social Media Sweet Spot, but Joplin Missouri knows her as one of its own.

Like so many families, KiKi’s was hit hard by the recent tornado that devastated her hometown. Now she is teaming up with her sister Kylee Coffman and pal Lindsey Rosenthal of Events For Good to create a fundraising event, June 13 from 6-9 pm in Washington DC, to benefit Joplin. She recently shared a little about the upcoming fundraiser entitled Show Me Support For Joplin, A Red Tie Affair and her experience as a result of the tornado."

Disaster relief legislation remains in limbo as political gridlock returns to Diet - The Mainichi Daily News

Disaster relief legislation remains in limbo as political gridlock returns to Diet - The Mainichi Daily News: "Disaster relief legislation remains in limbo as political gridlock returns to Diet

Nearly three months after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Diet has passed just 13 post-disaster restoration bills, far less than the 17 equivalent bills passed in the wake of the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995."

Baptist Press - New Eng. disaster relief: 'an open door' - News with a Christian Perspective

Baptist Press - New Eng. disaster relief: 'an open door' - News with a Christian Perspective: "BRIMFIELD, Mass. (BP)--Southern Baptist Disaster Relief is ramping up in New England a week after three tornadoes ripped across western Massachusetts from Springfield to Brimfield, killing four and impacting 19 communities.

The EF3 tornado that severely damaged Springfield June 1 remained on the ground for 40 miles or an estimated 70 minutes, with wind speeds clocked at nearly 160 miles an hour."

Facebook assembles group to plan for disasters - CNN.com

Facebook assembles group to plan for disasters - CNN.com: "About a dozen disaster-relief workers from governments and nonprofit organizations convened this week for a five-hour meeting at Facebook's offices here in Palo Alto, California, and via teleconference from Washington.

While the groups, which included members from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and California Emergency Management Agency, were grateful for the gesture, they were not above taking good-humored jabs at Facebook for its rocky relations with government."

Gulf Coast Community Foundation doles out $250,000 in grants to 4 area nonprofits | gulflive.com

Gulf Coast Community Foundation doles out $250,000 in grants to 4 area nonprofits | gulflive.com: "ULFPORT, Mississippi -- Four nonprofit organizations together received $250,000 Tuesday with the grants to be used to address some of the unmet needs of individuals, families and children affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and its aftermath.

Tuesday's ceremony marked the initial awarding phase of a $4 million grant from the Fund for Gulf Communities created by an anonymous donation to Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors."

The Nonprofit Quarterly | @npquarterly | A Numbers Game: Counts of Victims of the Haitian Earthquake Vary Wildly

The Nonprofit Quarterly | @npquarterly | A Numbers Game: Counts of Victims of the Haitian Earthquake Vary Wildly: "A consultant study leaked to the press last week concludes that the numbers of victims killed or displaced in the Haitian earthquake were significantly exaggerated. The report, commissioned by the U.S. Agency for International Development, suggests that only 46,000 to 85,000 people were killed, a huge number to be sure, but significantly below the 200,000 to 300,000 estimates of many aid groups, not to mention the official Haitian estimate of 316,000"

Editorial: Our own tornadoes | Editorials | projo.com | The Providence Journal

Editorial: Our own tornadoes | Editorials | projo.com | The Providence Journal: "Many New Englanders seemed surprised at the severe damage done by tornadoes in western and central Massachusetts last week, which killed three people. They shouldn’t be; we get some in our region most years. Kudos to state and local officials for their fast and effective response to the disaster.

But yes, it paled in comparison with that which obliterated much of Joplin, Mo., on Sunday, May 22. After eliminating a long list of missing, officials confirm 138 killed."

The steeple may be gone, but this church is unbroken - The Boston Globe

The steeple may be gone, but this church is unbroken - The Boston Globe: "During the first Sunday service since three tornadoes ravaged central and western Massachusetts, worshipers including volunteers and veteran congregation members packed the nave to hear a message of hope and community.

“Any time there is a disaster, even people of faith have questions,’’ Marrone said. “Why did this happen? Where was God?’’"

Oxfam Investigating 'Irregularity' in Pakistan Flood Aid - Philanthropy Today - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

Oxfam Investigating 'Irregularity' in Pakistan Flood Aid - Philanthropy Today - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "Oxfam Investigating ‘Irregularity’ in Pakistan Flood Aid

June 6, 2011, 10:06 am

The global relief charity Oxfam has started an investigation of its flood-aid work in Pakistan after internal monitoring found a “financial irregularity,” reports the BBC"

A vow to build again - BostonHerald.com

A vow to build again - BostonHerald.com: "The communities of Monson, Springfield, West Springfield and Brimfield were the hardest hit by three freak tornadoes Wednesday that killed three people, downed thousands of trees, destroyed entire neighborhoods and displaced hundreds."

Massive recovery effort in tornado zone - BostonHerald.com

Massive recovery effort in tornado zone - BostonHerald.com: "We’re transitioning from life-safety issues to beginning the recovery efforts and continuing to support the local communities in providing resources they and their residents need to get back on the road to recovery,” said Scott MacLeod, spokesman for the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency."

Southwest Coordination Center (SWCC) Website

Southwest Coordination Center (SWCC) Website: "The Southwest Coordination Center (SWCC) is the interagency focal point for coordinating the mobilization of resources between the twelve Federal and State Dispatch Centers of the Southwest Area and, when necessary, the National Coordination Center in Boise, ID, for assignment throughout the nation. Located in Albuquerque, NM, the SWCC mobilizes resources for wildland fire, prescribed fire, and other all-risk incidents. In addition, the Center provides Predictive Services and Intelligence related-products in support of incident management decision-making for wildland fire managers and on-the-ground wildland firefighters."

Tornado Unemployment Benefits 2011

Tornado Unemployment Benefits 2011: "Employees who are out of work due to tornado damage may be eligible for either regular unemployment benefits or disaster unemployment assistance. In addition, filing and waiting periods may be expedited for disaster victims. For example, Missouri has waived the waiting period to collect benefits in two counties.

Here's information on how to file for unemployment benefits in your state and a list of State Unemployment Offices."

Philanthropy 101: Penalize bad causes, boost good ones | OregonLive.com

Philanthropy 101: Penalize bad causes, boost good ones | OregonLive.com: "Rep. Vicki Berger, R-Salem, has a way with words, and she is not convinced that Attorney General John Kroger's charity bill would help charities. As Berger put it Tuesday: 'Is the juice worth the squeeze?'

Berger is talking about Senate Bill 40, which passed the Oregon Senate 28-2. Yet, as The Oregonian's D.K. Row reported Monday, the bill is now bottled up in the House, thanks to Berger. As co-chair of the House Committee on Revenue, Berger has not allowed it to have a hearing. The bill would take away the state tax deduction for what Kroger has called 'fake charities.'"

Creative products raise money for tornado relief | TuscaloosaNews.com

Creative products raise money for tornado relief | TuscaloosaNews.com: "They’re shaped like a tornado, basically a cone with a wide bottom, but swirly, with kind of undulating motions on it,” said Kennedy, who owns and operates FireHorse Pottery Studios out of the Kentuck complex. “I’m glazing them in a lot of different colors.”

The first morning after she posted the concept on Facebook, she sold 54 of the first 100, which took about three solid days of work. The rest went quickly, so she’s filling orders for another three dozen or so, but plans to keep the tumblers to a limited edition."

Massachusetts Begins Cleanup After Tornadoes - NYTimes.com

Massachusetts Begins Cleanup After Tornadoes - NYTimes.com: "BOSTON — Residents of Springfield began cleaning up Thursday after the first tornadoes to hit Massachusetts in three years killed four people, destroyed buildings and stirred fear among residents of a region far more accustomed to snowstorms."

Gov. Patrick declares state of emergency - BostonHerald.com

Gov. Patrick declares state of emergency - BostonHerald.com: "FEMA has also activated the Massachusetts Urban Search and Rescue Team, which responded to ground zero on Sept. 11, 2001, and for hurricane Katrina. A spokesman for the squad tells the Herald they are being sent to the Springfield area and also the town of Munson.

Apparent tornado hits Mass. city, injuries cited

Apparent tornado hits Mass. city, injuries cited: "(AP) -- An apparent tornado struck the downtown of one of the state's largest cities on Wednesday afternoon, scattering debris, toppling trees and frightening workers and residents. Several injuries were reported.

'Many injuries' reported in Massachusetts tornadoes - CNN.com

'Many injuries' reported in Massachusetts tornadoes - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- At least two tornadoes struck Springfield, Massachusetts, and numerous other communities in the western part of the state Wednesday, leaving behind 'many injuries' and extensive damage, the state's governor said.

State of emergency declared after Mass. tornadoes | ajc.com

State of emergency declared after Mass. tornadoes  | ajc.com: "SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Massachusetts Gov. Deval (deh-VAL') Patrick has declared a state of emergency and has called up 1,000 National Guard troops following what he said were two damaging tornadoes that swept through the state.

BREAKING NEWS: Tornado hits Springfield as thunderstorms sweep Massachusetts | Mail Online

BREAKING NEWS: Tornado hits Springfield as thunderstorms sweep Massachusetts | Mail Online: "The debris-filled funnel cloud roared through the city, one of the state's biggest, at around 4.45pm, felling trees and damaging buildings before heading east.

There were reports of residents trapped in houses, roofs ripped off and some injuries, but further details have yet to emerge.

It came as forecasters issued a tornado watch

NorwalkPlus.com News - AmeriCares receives $100,000 donation

NorwalkPlus.com News - AmeriCares receives $100,000 donation: "AmeriCares, a leading nonprofit global health and disaster relief organization, was presented with a $100,000 donation from the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of New York (JCCI) to help survivors of the deadly tornadoes that have devastated the South, including most recently in Joplin, Missouri.

"

Clay Center Dispatch

Clay Center Dispatch: "Relief agencies assisting with the disasters in Kansas and Missouri are encouraging persons wishing to help to donate cash to the Salvation Army, Red Cross or other established disaster relief organization. Be cautious when making contributions to other, unknown agencies or individuals claiming to raise funds for disaster victims.

Hardee's to give $30,000 to tornado victims | St. Louis Business Journal

Hardee's to give $30,000 to tornado victims | St. Louis Business Journal: "St. Louis-based Hardee’s Food Systems Inc. said it will donate $25,000 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to help victims of the violent weather that has ravaged the Southeast and Midwest in recent months.

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Understanding the Disaster Relief Equation - Clayton-Richmond Heights, MO Patch

Understanding the Disaster Relief Equation - Clayton-Richmond Heights, MO Patch: "As the recovery process gets underway following the deadly tornado that left behind a four-mile path of destruction in Joplin on Sunday, asking who pays for a natural disaster may seem upsetting.

The death toll in Joplin is still rising. Hundreds are listed as unaccounted for. The stories and images of death and survival coming from southwest Missouri are gut wrenching. How could anyone ask about the cost?

- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Smith Mountain Eagle

Smith Mountain Eagle: "Governor authorizes state contribution to Virginia Disaster Relief Fund



RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that $600,000 in anticipated state agency savings will go toward helping Virginians who were affected by severe weather and tornadoes that struck the Commonwealth in April. The money is the latest addition to a fund the governor recently established to collect donations from companies, non-profit organizations, volunteer organizations, faith-based groups, and residents."

Missouri Southern State University Tornado Disaster Announcements and Information

Missouri Southern State UniversityTornado Disaster Announcements and Information: "Tornado Announcements


TORNADO DISASTER ASSISTANCE INFORMATION PAGE - please see this link to access more information for disaster assistance.
Employee Disaster Announcement Page | Student Disaster Announcement Page"

Report says Haiti earthquake death toll closer to 50,000 not 316,000 | al.com

Report says Haiti earthquake death toll closer to 50,000 not 316,000 | al.com: "The report, a copy of which was obtained Monday by The Associated Press, estimates that the death toll was between 46,000 and 85,000, far below the Haitian government's official figure of 316,000. The report was prepared for the U.S. Agency for International Development but has not yet been publicly released."

Why can’t I help? � Eclectic Me

Why can’t I help? � Eclectic Me: ". Why can’t I help?

You can. The need is not going to end this week, next week, or even next month. The need won’t even end this year. I speak not only to this disaster, but to others as well. You can help and all it takes is being prepared and being patient."

Horrors: Disasters don't stop� - Editorials - The Charleston Gazette - West Virginia News and Sports -

Horrors: Disasters don't stop� - Editorials - The Charleston Gazette - West Virginia News and Sports -: "CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Joplin, Mo., and Charleston, W.Va., both have 50,000 residents. Imagine the tragedy if one-third of West Virginia's capital city abruptly was smashed into rubble, with hundreds killed or missing, with businesses wrecked, with hospitals and public facilities shattered, with fires spurting, with survivors standing helpless, having lost homes, careers, children, cars, belongings -- everything."

Saving the Salvos - ABC Capricornia - Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Saving the Salvos - ABC Capricornia - Australian Broadcasting Corporation: "Salvation Army Northern Queensland Captain Megan Gallagher says while flood recovery might not be in the forefront of people's minds anymore, the organisation is busier than ever.

'We're still very busy in all areas that were affected,' she says.

'We're till trying to assist those who were absolutely devastated by what happened to their properties, belongings and things like that."

Christians Deliver Emergency Disaster Relief to Joplin Tornado Victims, Christian News

Christians Deliver Emergency Disaster Relief to Joplin Tornado Victims, Christian News: "As search and rescue teams comb for survivors in the city of 50,000, Christian relief teams are on the ground in Joplin, Mo., ready to provide emergency relief to the area's devastated residents and homeowners."

More large donations given to Joplin relief � Local News � The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO

More large donations given to Joplin relief � Local News � The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO: "JOPLIN, Mo. — Donations to Joplin disaster relief, already in the millions, continue to pour into the community.

These are some of the latest:

- Kohl’s Department Stores announced a $150,000 cash donation. Kohl’s is making a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross for emergency-assistance and relief efforts in Joplin and $50,000 for relief efforts in other affected states."

Qld relief appeal gives $10m to charity

Qld relief appeal gives $10m to charity: "Charity group St Vincent de Paul will be given $10 million from the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal to distribute to Queensland's disaster victims.

Premier Anna Bligh said the appeal's committee had recommended the money be used for food, power bills, furnishings and household equipment."

Joplin, Mo. skatepark, former home of the JoMoPro BMX contest, aids in tornado relief - ESPN

Joplin, Mo. skatepark, former home of the JoMoPro BMX contest, aids in tornado relief - ESPN: "Following the devastating tornado that touched down in Joplin, Mo. on Sunday, The Bridge, Joplin's indoor pro-level skatepark, music venue and youth center, has been transformed into a drop location for emergency supplies for displaced residents of the Joplin area. 'The Bridge has become a primary pickup and drop off location for all organizations,' said administrators at The Bridge Monday morning."

House GOP to advance $1B disaster aid package - Forbes.com

House GOP to advance $1B disaster aid package - Forbes.com: "WASHINGTON -- Republicans controlling the House are preparing a $1 billion aid package to make sure federal disaster relief accounts don't run out.

Rep. Robert Aderholt said the move would ensure that there's enough money for victims of the devastating tornado that leveled Joplin, Mo., on Sunday, as well as those suffering from flooding in the Mississippi Basin and from tornadoes that swept across Alabama last month."

Missouri AG Koster warns against disaster-relief scams | St. Louis Business Journal

Missouri AG Koster warns against disaster-relief scams | St. Louis Business Journal: "Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster issued a warning Tuesday about disaster-relief scams in the aftermath of the tornado that devastated Joplin on Sunday."

Community Foundation of the Ozarks � Blog Archive � CFO Opens Joplin Recovery Fund with $10,000 Contribution

Community Foundation of the Ozarks � Blog Archive � CFO Opens Joplin Recovery Fund with $10,000 Contribution: "The Community Foundation of the Ozarks, with its Joplin-Carthage area affiliate, today established the Joplin Recovery Fund for donors interested in supporting mid- and long-term community redevelopment efforts to rebuild the devastated city.

The CFO will seed the fund with a $10,000 contribution on behalf of its affiliate, the Community Foundation of Southwest Missouri, Inc., which covers Barton, Jasper, McDonald and Newton counties through the CFO’s regional office in Joplin."

World Vision Raises US Tornado Response Appeal to $5 Million to Meet Additional... -- DALLAS, May 23, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

PRESS RELEASE


World Vision Raises US Tornado Response Appeal to $5 Million to Meet Additional... -- DALLAS, May 23, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --: "DALLAS, May 23, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- World Vision's disaster response director has deployed to southern Missouri to assess the damage after a massive tornado plowed through the city of Joplin on Sunday evening leaving thousands without homes.

'Out of my 14 years doing disaster response, I have never ever seen a weather season in the United States that is this severe where natural disasters keep coming and we haven't even started hurricane season,' said Phyllis Freeman, World Vision's domestic emergency response director and a veteran of the agency's Hurricane Katrina response. 'It is heartbreaking to see yet another tornado devastate an entire community and to see even more children left homeless.'"

WSIL TV • Local Relief Efforts Could Be Headed to Joplin

WSIL TV • Local Relief Efforts Could Be Headed to Joplin: "MASSAC COUNTY -- Storm clean-up is just getting started in Joplin, Missouri just 24 hours after a powerful twister roared through. One group in Southern Illinois is already packing its bags to help. The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Association has been working for the past month, helping flood victims across southern Illinois clean out their homes. Work will continue here. But now they're preparing to also help tornado victims in Missouri."

Donating To The Relief Effort In Joplin - FOX23 News

Donating To The Relief Effort In Joplin - FOX23 News: "During their phone banks on FOX23 News, the Tulsa Red Cross collected more than $11,000 dollars for the relief effort, but more help is needed. Here are some ways you can help:"

How to help tornado relief efforts in Joplin - KansasCity.com

How to help tornado relief efforts in Joplin - KansasCity.com: "Looking for ways to help those in Joplin? Several organizations in the Kansas City area are gathering supplies to help with the relief effort.

Here’s how to get involved:"

Community continues to respond to storms | oanow.com

Community continues to respond to storms | oanow.com: "The Red Cross is continuing its disaster response work and is receiving overwhelming support from communities across the country. The work is made possible through generous donations of time, blood and money. So far in response to the rash of spring storms, the Red Cross has:"

A sampling of editorials from Missouri newspapers

A sampling of editorials from Missouri newspapers: "Southeast Missourian, Cape Girardeau, May 22

Coordinated efforts

It's not uncommon for editorials in this space to recognize groups like the Red Cross or faith-based organizations that strive to help those in need. But it's especially exciting to see these types of groups coordinate efforts to make the most difference in disaster-struck communities. That's exactly what's been happening in Morehouse, Mo., recently."

Relief Organization Helps Victims of Missouri Tornado - Cincinnati News Story - WLWT Cincinnati

Relief Organization Helps Victims of Missouri Tornado - Cincinnati News Story - WLWT Cincinnati: "CINCINNATI -- Matthew 25: Ministries, a disaster relief organization in Cincinnati, is planning on launching and distributing disaster relief parcels to the victims of the tornado in Joplin,Mo., once their partners in the city are ready to receive the shipments."

Purdue University raises more than $22K for Japan relief | Journal and Courier | jconline.com

Purdue University raises more than $22K for Japan relief | Journal and Courier | jconline.com: "The American Red Cross Japan Earthquake Relief Fund will add more than $22,000 to its balance today -- courtesy of Purdue University student organization heads and a Nobel Prize winner."

FEMA opens Disaster Relief Center

FEMA opens Disaster Relief Center: "The Federal Emergency Management Agency opened up a Disaster Recovery Center for residents whose homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed during the April 22 tornado."

Joplin, Missouri, Tornado: How You Can Help Online

Joplin, Missouri, Tornado: How You Can Help Online: "If you can’t get on the ground to help in person, social media offers ways to help those most in need. You can also check out Mashable‘s original post for ways you can help victims of other recent tornadoes. Below we’ve collected some quick ways you can support those in Missouri."

Morimoto Hosts a Fundraiser For Japanese Disaster Relief Efforts -- Grub Street Philadelphia

Morimoto Hosts a Fundraiser For Japanese Disaster Relief Efforts -- Grub Street Philadelphia: "There’s no doubt that March’s earthquake, tsunami and partial nuclear reactor meltdowns in Japan were upsetting for the whole world in one way or another, but for Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto the triple disaster was exceptionally distressing. To help ease the suffering in his home country, Morimoto will host the fundraiser Morimoto For Japan on June 7 at his namesake restaurant in Philadelphia. Unlike the rest of us who watched the series of devastating events unfold on TV, Morimoto was on the ground in Japan the very next day after the quake and tsunami hit. Though the majority of his family and friends were out of harms way in his hometown of Hiroshima, Morimoto said that they were still traumatized by the magnitude of the destruction hundreds of miles away. “The day after the earthquake I went to Japan on a business trip and experienced the pain first hand,” Morimoto told Grub Street. “Although those painful scenes will disappear from TV as other headlines take over, the suffering will remain for months to come.”"

Disaster Relief Troops to Get Pay Hike — from $20 a Day - Japan Real Time - WSJ

Disaster Relief Troops to Get Pay Hike — from $20 a Day - Japan Real Time - WSJ: "Members of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces may be in line for a pay bump to reflect the extraordinary circumstances of the relief missions following the March 11 disasters."

Haiti’s rebuilding work after quake: Martelly faces major challenges - Worldwide News and Events - Tops Sri Lanka - Tops.lk

Haiti’s rebuilding work after quake: Martelly faces major challenges - Worldwide News and Events - Tops Sri Lanka - Tops.lk: "MEXICO: As celebrations calm down after Saturday’s inauguration of Haiti’s new President Michel Martelly, the popular singer will get no time for a political honeymoon as he takes over power in one of the poorest nations in the world..The challenges are daunting, and even though Martelly starts in his new job with massive support from the Haitian people who elected him in a landslide victory with 67.5 percent of the vote, the pressure is on for him to deliver results fast.."

Quebec has had costliest catastrophes Manitoba is No.2 for disaster relief - Winnipeg Free Press

Quebec has had costliest catastrophes Manitoba is No.2 for disaster relief - Winnipeg Free Press: "The federal fund set up to help provinces cope with large natural disasters has paid out almost $2 billion since it was established 40 years ago, and Manitoba will be calling on it again as the bills come in from the Assiniboine River basin this spring.

Of the provinces, Manitoba has drawn the second-most money from the fund, about $298 million, most of it a result of the 1997 Red River flood. Quebec, with the 1996 Saguenay flood and the 1998 ice storm, leads the way with about $854 million."

Radio Taiwan International

Radio Taiwan International: "The Red Cross societies of Taiwan and Japan have signed a memorandum of understanding on disaster relief cooperation.

The two sides signed the document in Tokyo on Friday. In the MOU, Taiwan's Red Cross promised assistance to Japan to help with the aftermath of the March earthquake and tsunami."

TechNet Blogs

TechNet Blogs: "n order to assist with the recovery, TechSoup Japan, a program of the Japan NPO Center, is working with Microsoft, Adobe, and Symantec to aid local nonprofit organizations whose facilities are damaged in the earthquake by providing software donations. This Disaster Relief Program is administered in addition to the standard TechSoup Japan product donation program and provides free software without any administrative fees to qualifying nonprofits that have been affected by the earthquake. More information is available here in Japanese. A joint press release in English is posted in the TechSoup Global press room."

Cleveland Daily Banner - Volunteers rock Relief effort relies on unpaid workers

Cleveland Daily Banner - Volunteers rock Relief effort relies on unpaid workers: "Volunteers have been crucial in virtually every aspect of aid after the deadly April 27 tornadoes that ripped across several areas of Bradley County and Cleveland."

Disaster relief team returns from Alabama | The Augusta Chronicle

Disaster relief team returns from Alabama | The Augusta Chronicle: "'We saw pictures of the devastation before we got there. But there, you could feel the devastation. You could feel the grief through the expressions on their faces and the look in their eyes,' said Debra McKenzie, development manager of Augusta's Salvation Army."

Thrivent Financial Commits up to $275,000 for Tornado Disaster Relief - PR Newswire - sacbee.com

Thrivent Financial Commits up to $275,000 for Tornado Disaster Relief - PR Newswire - sacbee.com: "MINNEAPOLIS, May 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has committed up to $275,000 for disaster relief in response to tornadoes that ripped through Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and Tennessee on April 27. The funding includes up to $250,000 designed to supplement funding through Thrivent Financial chapter service teams nationwide, and $25,000 in additional 'Care in Regions' funding to be used for volunteer activities coordinated by Thrivent Financial staff in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and Tennessee."

How Fund Raising for the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Increased Giving in 2010 - Online Fund-Raising Survey - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

How Fund Raising for the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Increased Giving in 2010 - Online Fund-Raising Survey - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "How Fund Raising for the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Increased Giving in 2010"