Give with confidence

Our message today is simple. You may want to give something to an organization that can help the people of Haiti. But knowing where to start can be overwhelming.

Giving is tough. It is hard to know who or what organizations you can trust. After every national or international disaster, news of fraud seems to follow. While disheartening, please don’t let that prevent you from those who need assistance right now.

Here at the Community Foundation, we take our role as a regional philanthropic resource very seriously. And, we want you to know we are committed to ensuring Northlanders have the tools to make impactful and informed decisions about giving — whether in Haiti or right here in the Twin Ports. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have about ensuring your efforts make an impact.

Another tool we encourage you to consider — the Charities Review Council. This independent resource dedicated to empowering people in making informed and thoughtful giving decisions, says the Red Cross is one charity you can trust. To support the Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. A number of other charities that are on the ground in Haiti, along with important information you should know about what type of donation you should make, is available on the Charities Review Council website: smartgivers.org.

The latest news shows that 200,000 people are dead and more than one-third of the population is affected by last week’s magnitude-7 earthquake in Haiti. Much of the country’s basic infrastructure that provides human needs, including food and water, is destroyed. Thousands are injured and even more are living on the streets because they have no safe shelter. It is hard to imagine a disaster of this magnitude.

Margaret Mead so eloquently once said, “never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” This couldn’t be more true in the Northland.

Already stories of giving are pouring forward and history shows this will only continue. It is clear, the spirit of generosity is alive and well in the Northland — something we should all embrace.

Holly C. Sampson is president of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation.

Tags: guest editorial, opinion, superior