By: Dien S Yuen, Director of Philanthropy
Southeast Asia has been hit horribly by a series of tragic events. It is too difficult to convey in words the lives that were lost and the damage done to homes and businesses. The Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Western Sumatra ... these were already countries with high rates of poverty.
As I look at these pictures, I can't help but feel overwhelmed for the victims. But since I work at Give2Asia and we are fielding e-mails and calls from donors wanting to help - there is no time to feel sad. There are many, many generous donors - individuals, corporations, families, friends - that want to help. Like all disasters, we encourage donors to think about immediate relief and also long term recovery.
Southeast Asia has been hit horribly by a series of tragic events. It is too difficult to convey in words the lives that were lost and the damage done to homes and businesses. The Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Western Sumatra ... these were already countries with high rates of poverty.
As I look at these pictures, I can't help but feel overwhelmed for the victims. But since I work at Give2Asia and we are fielding e-mails and calls from donors wanting to help - there is no time to feel sad. There are many, many generous donors - individuals, corporations, families, friends - that want to help. Like all disasters, we encourage donors to think about immediate relief and also long term recovery.
There are many groups like the Red Cross that can provide immediate aid such as clean water and food. As the media attention dies down in the next several weeks though, survivors will also need help to rebuild their homes and businesses. There are some donors that give because their heart aches as they see the destruction and want to take action right away. By making a gift instantly, they feel as if they alleviated some suffering of an unknown friend and family.
There are also some donors that want to be more strategic and wait until the immediate relief is stabilized so they can see what else is needed. In-between stages of support - assistance to get life back to normal, clearing of roads, cleaning of homes are required along with finding food, shelter and clean water. Long term recovery also includes helping survivors rebuild their lives and their livelihood. This may include micro-loans to business owners so they can purchase supplies again. There is the psycho-social therapy needs for children, seniors and others traumatized by the disaster.
For donors that believe in long-term investment and prevention, they will fund projects that support disaster preparedness programs so that - if another typhoon, earthquake, or flood happens - the loss of life and the damages can be minimized. All types of donors are needed and there are many different ways to give - even small blessings and prayers shared quietly for those far away.
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