After giving to Haiti in record amounts, it's feared that much of the U.S. population will soon face, and already may be facing, donor fatigue. This would be only natural, and thus it will be the job of all of us to keep Haiti in the public consciousness during the long rebuilding process ahead.
One sector of the population, however, is still eager to help, has boundless amounts of energy, and rarely suffers fatigue of any kind. I'm talking about the budding activists eating your food, running in your yard, playing on the computer, asking if friends can come over, calling you for a ride, or not speaking to you this week.
Turns out, they have a lot to say.
Dear Haitian earthquake survivor,
I realize you would much rather have food, water and shelter than this letter, but it's the best I can muster. My country is sending aid and I hope some it finds you. Keep fighting.
Sincerely, Matthew
GO Campaign has raised thousands from caring supporters. We are getting word from the ground that our first round of airlifted shipments have reached the 200-cot makeshift hospital in Borgne and these critical supplies are already being used to treat amputees and traumatized survivors. We're currently raising funds to buy $50,000 worth of medicines at cost for only $10,000, which we hope will be on the next airlift scheduled to leave this week. Next to the boxes of medicines will be boxes of cards -- handmade by school children across the USA and filled with messages of love and compassion, if not always perfect spelling.
My name is Madisen.
I have hard about the earthquakes and am very sorry. Did you know that Sandra Bullick donated million dollars to Haiti? Please don't think that we aren't helping because we are.
Haiti rocks.
It's important that kids get a chance to respond to Haiti in whatever way moves them. They need to be encouraged to reach out. Whether they organize bake-sales, bike-a-thons, lemonade stands, or simply jot their thoughts on a folded piece of construction paper.
My name is Lucas from NY. My family donated $10. I heard about the earthquake. I feel really sad.
GO Campaign encourages youth to get engaged -- to learn about their counterparts across the globe -- to feel connected and to make a difference. Raising money is good, but raising awareness is just as good. And raising hope is, well, priceless.
My name is Julia. If you are reading this, it means you are alive. That's the most important thing. Don't worry. Things will get better.
Right now, hand-made cards of hope and support from classrooms in Sommers, New York and Abbotsford, Wisconsin and from a backyard in Brentwood, California are en route to Haiti. In a plane filled with hospital supplies, the cards may be the best medicine on the plane.
Dear people of Haiti,
We care about you and want you to survive.
Love, Rose