The huge natural and human disaster currently unfolding in Haiti is heartbreaking. I have strong empathy, on one level, having been through a number of earthquakes during the years I lived in Anchorage. In Alaska we were blessed that none of the earthquakes were very destructive, like this current one, and also, the devastating one in Alaska back in the '60's, meant that all the rebuilding had been done to better survive any future ones...unlike the structures in Haiti.As I was working and watching CNN, I was overwhelmed with realizing just how blessed I am to be living a life I choose and enjoying my work and my cats (and Dakota), and realizing that even in a deep economic recession, our country is so wealthy, relatively speaking.
The Haitians need help. I've given to the Red Cross, but in the "cash" department, things are a little tight since I've just paid my bills, so I don't have as much to spare as I'd like. I'm thinking I should figure out a way to donate more by maybe giving a percentage from my art sales/Etsy sales/Artfire sales during a period of time here...I've never tried anything like this before.
I've donated artwork for various charity and fund raising auctions for church, art centers, and other social service groups over many years, but never tried to raise money for a charity on my own. I think groups like the Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders are two timely groups, in a position to help Haiti. I'll give this some more thought and post more about it in a day or two, when I get my details figured out. What do you all think? Are you moved to give to charity with a disaster like this one? Have you thought about fund raising for this tragedy (or other tragedies past?)
5 comments:
The tragedy in Haiti is horrible. I can't even imagine what they are going through right now. Even though we've had our share of earthquakes here where I live it doesn't even compare. I have give a small amount, what I can afford to our local Red Cross. However I always feel like reaching out directly to those suffering. I do think however that if everyone just gave one dollar, I think everyone could afford that it would make a huge difference. I heard Bill Clinton earlier saying pretty much the same thing. Any amount donated is a huge help because they need everything.
A poignant post and it could not be more in sync with my own thoughts. I will be making a monetary donation to the Red Cross today, if I can get through to them on the phone.
Most of us are not poor in any significant way. For the victims of the quake, a blanket, a gallon of drinking water, or a loaf of bread could be life-saving.
I too had thought of art sale donations, but the need is urgent and the need is now. They can't wait, so I think immediate cash is the best answer. Even if it's just a small amount--it will help.
Yes--Haiti is in the throes of a horrible, tragic catastrophe. I am also planning on making a donation. Your ideas are wonderful! Another way to help charities is by writing on sites like Squidoo, or even selling items on Ebay (under the Red Cross store). These places, and many others online, offer ways to support charities.
Have a great day,
Sher
The new kitty is sooo pretty - love that first photo...
First- gorgeous kitten photos; especially the second one- what a cute little nose!
Second- yes, it is a horribly unfortunate thing that happened there. And you are right, relatively speaking, we are so much wealthier as a nation even in the face of tragedy that I feel like we are compelled to give. I've seen other bloggers/ crafters talk about donating percentages of their crafting income to certain charities before. Haven't done it myself because, well, any percentage of 0=0! Anywho, I think it's a great idea, and will draw buyers too, so I think probably, in theory anyway even out in the end.
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