There is little I can add to this great post by musician and activist Jason Mraz, so I’ll just resort to good old copy/paste and hope that enough of us agree to skip the flowers and chocolates, tell our loved ones what they mean to us and make a difference in a very real way this year.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. In my opinion, people have attached themselves to this holiday in a way that makes single people sad, those in relationships nervous, and those in marriage pressured. No matter what your status, I invite you to give love in a powerful, new way this year.
On Tuesday, January 12th, 2010, the peninsula nation of Haiti was devastated by the worst Earthquake to hit the world in generations. Hundreds of thousands are dead and Millions are displaced. They are only one hour off the shores of our mighty country and they need our support more than ever.
This Valentine’s Season I invite you to take action as a world citizen and contribute to our less fortunate neighbors. Here are a few ways to do so:
Donate Over the Web:
Free The Children – “Children Helping Children Through Education.” Having been working in Haiti for more than a decade they were fast to respond. Their primary objective is making sure children are safe, sourced, and have a future to look forward to. (This organization was founded by a 12 year old by the way. Of all the groups I’ve met and worked with – these guys move me like no other. They are my inspiration for being in action.) Please give generously.
http://www.freethechildren.com/haiti
InterAction is the largest coalition of U.S.-based international, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) focused on the world’s poor and most vulnerable people. Collectively, InterAction’s more than 180 members work in every developing country. Member organizations are large and small, faith-based and secular. They have a special link for Haiti.
http://www.interaction.org/crisis-list/earthquake-haiti
Google is also maintaining a page with information on what you can do to help. This is trusted source for reputable organizations you can contribute to such as the International Red Cross, UNICEF, and Doctors Without Borders.
http://www.google.com/relief/haitiearthquake/
Donate by Text Message
Yele Haiti – The Non-Profit, created by Haitian born recording artist Wyclef Jean (who I had the pleasure of meeting at “We Are The World”) is accepting $5 donations when you text “Yele” to 501501 or $10 donations when you text “Haiti” to the same number. Charges will appear on your cell phone bill.
Or Donate with a Phone Call:
You can make a phone call and donate to any number of organizations presently bringing relief to Haiti. Here are a few:
American Red Cross: 800 RED CROSS
Americares: 800 486 4357
International Rescue Committee: 877 REFUGEE
UNICEF U.S. Fund: 800 4 UNICEF
Habitat for Humanity International: 800 422 4828
Oxfam America: 800 776 9326
International Medical Corps: 800 481 4462
Don’t put this off. A gift today would create so much possibility for the many lives waiting for a miracle. This is your opportunity to be such a miracle. Thanks for considering, Jason
