As residents in China, our lives could have been irrevocably changed this week by the earthquake in Sichuan province… or, as for many Shanghai residents, it could be totally unaffected. As part of Shanghaiist’s new Green Scene column, we have “borrowed” a list that shows our readers how we can make a real difference in earthquake victims’ life- today- right now.
Excerpts from Crossroads, a website that provides a review of corporate social responsibility issues in China. Full report here….
… What are good ways to help? What are bad ways? (like getting on a train to go to the affected areas to volunteer if you have no specialized skills)
Short term, China’s Red Cross is actively seeking CASH donations. For those who would like to donate equipment, please contact local Red Cross centers ahead of time before donating goods. Quite simply, donations of anything other than money require logistic support to collect, move, and distribute, so in this immediate period many NGOs are simply looking for cash to purchase goods locally. It is cheaper, it is faster, and it is more manageable……
For those looking to volunteer, my suggestion is to wait a couple of weeks. I am personally following up with several NGOs now, and once we understand their needs, I will begin advertising on Hands On Shanghai (www.handsonshanghai.com) as that is an NGO devoted to managing volunteers on a large level, and we will – if asked – assist with volunteer support. Again, don’t just show up unannounced.
What 1-3 options do you recommend for people in China? and for people in the US?
Individuals in China/ US/ other - Make a personal donation to an organization you are comfortable with. If you are not familiar with the Chinese NGOs, and prefer to give to international NGOs, then you can do so (I will provide list at bottom). IN large part, international NGOs work with local NGOs, and will provide technical assistance as needed…..
How did you assure yourself that this is a trustworthy organization?…
You can use groups like Give 2 Asia and Global giving, but in many cases they will require a portion of the donation as a management fee. Giving to Red Cross is relatively risk free…
List of NGOs.
Short Term: China Charity Foundation, Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, & Care for Children have both put out public asks and are well run organizations:
Long term (Chinese organizations): China Youth Development Fund, Woman’s Federation, Poverty Alleviation Fund
Long term (International organizations): Project Hope, Mercy Corps
Also, CN-Reviews lists over 24 ways to give and includes links to some of the organizations listed above.
Last, but hopefully not least… Shanghaiist will also be hosting our own benefit for Sichuan’s earthquake victims next week! Details to follow shortly…
P.S. Our benefit is still looking for individuals or corporations to match the funds we raise and donate raffle prizes. Contact us at CSRshanghai (at) gmail (dot) com to find out more details!
Other ways to help here and here.
Photo by J Tong
