There for you ...

American Red Cross 2010 Calendar
from the American Red Cross online store

In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Haiti on Jan. 12, there has been an outpouring of generosity. So many have reached out to lend a helping hand by donating time, supplies or funds to aid in the emergency relief. At the same time, many of us are in the position of reflecting on how fortunate we are to have a roof over our heads and our loved ones safe and near. We are reminded how lucky we are to have the basic necessities of life. To have clothing to protect us from the elements ...

Organic Vintage Tee


To have fresh water to drink ...

Red Cross Stainless Steel Water Bottle

To be able to take care of ourselves
and the ones we love ...

Vintage-style Personal First Aid Kit


And when those basic needs are met, to have the resources to enjoy leisurely pursuits ...

American Red Cross
Holiday 2009 Skier Card

And to know that when we are suddenly unable to take care of ourselves, someone else will ...

“History Through Posters” Umbrella

Back when the American Red Cross was founded (in 1881!) they had to spread their message to cities, towns and countries with the help of posters like the ones seen on the umbrella and calendar above (all items are available online at the American Red Cross store). Today it only takes a matter of seconds to spread information via the internet. If disaster relief is needed, financial support is just a click or text message away. I think it is just amazing and so inspiring to see people use social media to “answer the call!”

Years ago, I used to work full-time as a graphic designer for an agency that created direct-mail campaigns for non-profits like The American Cancer Society, The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, The Special Olympics and the American Red Cross. My job wasn’t very glamorous, and even with all of the projects that I worked on I can’t say that any were portfolio worthy. However, I did feel good at the end of the day that I had done something to help others.



My official two cents ...

Now it is easier than ever for anyone to help. And you don’t even need a stamp, envelope, pen or checkbook! Just text “Haiti” to 90999 to donate $10 (charges will appear on your cell phone bill) or “Yele” to 501501 to donate $5 (same deal) or visit the American Red Cross online to learn how you can DONATE NOW.

And if you want to spread the word in a more traditional manner, wearing the Red Cross logo across a t-shirt is a cool way to do it ; )



P.S. Since my boys are home from school today, we chose a new quote for our quote board. “Life’s most urgent question is, What are you doing for others?”
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The runner up quote, also from MLK, was
“The time is always right to do what is right.”