Discussions

Do You Donate To Disaster Relief In Rough Economic Times?

Posted by spiritedstrider • 6/22/08 • Subscribe to this Discussion [RSS] • Report This Topic
Topics: big ten network, charitable donations, community service, disaster relief, donations, earthquakes, flood of 2008, iowa, myanmar, tornadoes

With all of the endless supply of natural disasters these days, there are many causes and places in which we can donate to victims. Yet all around us, we are hearing that people are having to choose between gas and food for their everyday survival.

I'm wondering if donating to others less fortunate or who are suffering is an act of service that we continue to do, even in the midst of our own economic troubles?

Have you donated yet to assist those in need from the Flood of 2008? What about for the string of U.S. tornadoes? Or for Katrina victims still needing help? Or for the Myanmar cyclone relief, or the earthquake in China?

This week I will be participating in two local fund-raising drives in NYC. One is for Myanmar, China, U.S. tornadoes and floods and the other is for the University of Iowa Foundation Flood Relief Fund.

In addition, the Big Ten Network just announced that it will MATCH any public donation to the University of Iowa Foundation Flood Relief Fund, and they are also donating 100% of their proceeds from the purchases at the Big Ten Network store to that fund (through June 30). So Big 10 sports fans--I urge you to buy something for your favorite team! (And any wanna-be fans, can buy Iowa Hawkeyes stuff!..lol)

So what about you? Do you give (of your time, money or article donations), even if you are hurting economically?

User Comments

6/22/08

richrf

I'm always torn. Sometimes I do and sometimes I don't. Many people in disaster, have chosen to live there and take the risks, even after they have been through the same disaster many time. Should I encourage the behavior or not? Tough philosophical dilemma.

But that aside, when I do give, I always give to the Red Cross, who have just announced that they have run out of money.

Rich

[reply]
1. 6/22/08
  
  spiritedstrider
  
  Thanks for your thoughts. I don't see it the same way, but that is the beauty of diversity: of people and their opinions! Disasters can happen everywhere, even if it isn't the normal weather pattern. Unforeseen events happen to people all the time--look at how people suddenly find themselves homeless, for example. Or should I stay away from big cities because I know that crime exists?
  
  In the case of the eastern Iowa flooding, I do know a bit about that. Many areas that flooded weren't even in areas that people thought would ever flood--In fact, even if people wanted to buy flood insurance, they weren't allowed to because they didn't live in the flood plain. So I guess I see it differently, but I do appreciate your thoughts.
  
  I heard that, too, about the American Red Cross. That's sad but hopefully, people will come forward to help.
6/22/08

kdawg68

I washed cars nonstop (apart from smoke breaks and lunch) for 9 hours on Thursday to raise money for some co-workers whose houses got flooded out in Cedar Rapids. Was a sweaty amorphous blob when it was all done - but had plenty of folks tires lookin' dayum fine!

Usually I do donate, although I'm skeptical with some charities as to how much asctually ever makes it's way to those intended to receive the offering.

[reply]
1. 6/22/08
  
  richrf
  
  According to audits of public records, the Red Cross has one of the highest service/donation ratios. There are sites on the web that help provide information on this subject, and some of the charities are truly abysmal.
  
  Rich
2. 6/22/08
  
  spiritedstrider
  
  kdawg68, Bless your heart (and tired body!). That was a great idea and I'm sure that the people who you helped really appreciated it.
  
  As for charities, that is a personal choice that each donor needs to make. There are many choices out there so I'm sure there is one that feels right for you.
  
  If not, there's still a lot of summer to go--car washes are a great way to serve!
6/22/08

cooper

I support two women via women to women international and have since college, I am thinking of getting some friends together for a couple of more women. I also work at public fundraisers for various local and national charities when events are held locally. I also give to one particular humanitarian organization the IRC.
I think giving locally is vry important.

Other than that

[reply]
1. 6/22/08
  
  spiritedstrider
  
  Cooper, I agree with you about giving locally. That is one reason I am supporting the UI Foundation Flood Relief Fund. Even though I don't live there anymore, I do know the foundation and know that it will go where the university most needs it.
  
  I'd be interested in learning more about the women to women international charity, too.