Looking for ways to help Nepal

If we learned anything after the terrible earthquake in Haiti five years ago, it was that a tragedy like this causes so many amputations. I know this is true as well in Nepal after a 7.9 quake killed thousands – so many that the death toll may be unknown for a long time.

But we do know many people are in trouble and need medical help. Many people need new homes – but they’re too afraid to rebuilt until the tremors stop. The weather is horrible. I hate living so very far away without the ability to help immediately.

But I will try very hard to remain patient while emergency organizations swoop in and help with the immediate rescue and recovery. I will try to research organizations that can especially help adults and children who lost limbs. But there are many big needs right now in the area. I have a couple of organizations I have a personal relationship with.

First, there’s Save the Children. I plan to run in honor of the organization during the Walt Disney World Wine and Dine race. You can donate directly to their Nepal relief fund or you can check out my run fundraiser.

Also, I work for AARP, it’s the largest membership-based organization in the country and I’m proud of all the things it does to support people who are 50+. The AARP Foundation is raising money to AARP Foundation Fundraiser for Nepal. It plans to match every dollar donated up to $225,000.

I also appreciate the collection of vetted Nepal non-profit organizations shared by Public Radio International. They used Charity Navigator to collect some of the best organizations making an impact in Nepal. The Guardian also created an excellent collection of ways to help. Nepal may be far away for many of us, but I feel a deep need to reach out and help others. Especially those who are suddenly disabled and feeling lost. I promise to keep my eyes and ears open to find ways we can reach out and make a direct impact to children and adults who are suddenly a part of the limb different world.