CAN-DO: Providing Disaster Relief Around The Globe
If natural history has taught us anything, it's that disaster can strike at any minute. But if human history has taught us anything, it's that people are always willing to help. Further cementing our belief in both these statements? CAN-DO.
As their positive name implies, CAN-DO is all about taking action. Founded in 2004 by Eric Klein as a direct response to the devastating tsunami in Sri Lanka, CAN-DO focuses its efforts on disaster relief and community revitalization. According to their website, Klein was inspired to start CAN-Do after observing all the problems that seemed "normal" in disaster situations. He saw the chaos and the confusion, and wondered if maybe he could do a better job.
The mission statement at CAN-DO is all about efficiency and transparency. When you donate to CAN-DO, you know exactly where your money is going: "CAN-DO is committed to getting aid to the people who need it in a timely and transparent manner that maximizes the impact of the aid and services provided while allowing its supporting donors to see the impact that their aid is having." To achieve this purpose, CAN-DO utilizes a decentralized approach focused on delivering customized services. They assess what each community needs, and work to provide immediate relief in that area.
And if you need further proof, CAN-DO provides evidence of their efforts at Virtual Volunteer TV, as well as on their personal site. Every project taken on by the folks at CAN-DO is documented, which allows donors to see their dollars at work.
So far, CAN-DO has worked to reverse the damage done by Hurricane Katrina, provided flood relief in Iowa, school refurbishment in Rwanda, reforestation in the Sudan and is engaged in ongoing projects in Haiti and South Dakota. Though their offices are located in the U.S., Can-Do is a globally focused non-profit, and will go anywhere they're needed to get the job done.
Want to learn more? Visit their website, like them on Facebook, or watch some videos on YouTube. Spread the word and spread the good.