It’s only been nearly a week and the Haiti earthquake is said to be the fifth worst quake since medieval times, with an estimated death of half a million people, double the death toll of the deadly tsunami.



As aids come in from nations around the world, many organisations are doing their bids in helping as well. Donation appeals have been going crazy on Twitter, and it warms my heart to see the generosity of everyone on Twitter! I was torn between which organisations to donate but, but I do realise it doesn’t really matter – they *all* need the money, so I chose 3 of my favourite charities and what they do that I am passionate about.



Most of the organisations appealing for money on Twitter are from USA, and one of my friends said that he didn’t donate because it will also charge him conversion fee – which is a lame reason but fair enough. Thus, I thought I’d put together a list of Australian organisations you can donate too – tax deductible and no conversion rate.

Save the Children Australia – directed immediately to the most vulnerable children and their families in Haiti.

Australian Red Cross – teaming up with other Red Cross and Red Crescent around the world to provide relief.

Oxfam Australia – responding with public health, water, and sanitation services to prevent the spread of disease.

Médecins Sans Frontières Australia – medical projects and are now helping to treat the injured.

Plan International – focus on water, sanitation, health, shelter and child protection.

Half a million people predicted dead. If there is a good time to open up your heart and empty your wallet, this is the time to do so.

* Pictures taken from Brisbane Times and information from SBS Word News

4 comments

Read more...

I have always been very fascinated by the potential of technology in improving lives but have never really looked into it, other than through my work with the Inspire Foundation, which uses information communication technology to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people.

I remember first entering the non-profit technology circle and attended my first official event – the Connecting Up Conference and everyone was talking about Beth Kanter, the person you must know if you’re interested in non-profit technology. That started my subscription to Beth’s blog, and reading more and more about her work and keeping up to date with her presentations and her findings.

Beth has inspired me a lot in the things I do when it comes to technology, not only in the non-profit field, but in other of my work area – education and social innovation. It’s interesting that we’ve never met but Beth has been a great mentor and teacher. I’m still slowly finding my way through this whole muddy field, but surely, I’m getting there – esp since in collaboration with Eddie Harran for Digital For Good and partnering with Brisbane City Council for YES Brisbane to launch our first unreasonable ideas incubator program.

So, Beth, as you turn 53, I hope you realise how much of global impact you have made and the amount of social innovation and social good you have fueled around the world. Thank you so much for your generosity and compassion. Happy birthday!

***

Wish Beth a happy birthday and help her make her wish come true – http://bit.ly/beth53

no comments

Read more...