Days after the disaster in Japan, President Joanna Colletti issued a call to action for IL Jaycees to step it up and help bring relief to our brothers and sisters in Japan. In response, a group of local presidents in the North Region began devising a plan to launch a collection can fundraiser in Area 1. We now have the resources to put the plan into action and we need your help.
Thanks to the generous grant from the IL Jaycees Charitable Foundation, this project is fully funded. This means that local chapters can participate at no cost. 500 cans and labels will be distributed to chapters in Area 1, to be placed in retail locations, utilized at chapter events, or used to collect funds roadside.
Money collected will be donated to JCI Operation Hope for distribution of funds. Established in January 2005 after the tsunamis in Southeast Asia, JCI Operation Hope is governed by the JCI Executive Committee, ensuring that 100% of the funds are used to assist victims of disaster.
At a time where starvation in Africa and the national debt may be in the forefront of our thoughts, please know that in no way is the tragedy in Japan old news. Japan is now entering the 2nd stage of recovery. Areas of concern include:
1. Infrastructure
The estimated cost of reconstruction is close to US$300bn, the largest ever reconstruction cost in the aftermath of a natural disaster. The likelihood of continue aftershocks is great for at least a year after the initial quake. In addition to the costs to rebuild roadways, sewage and water ways, and permanent dwellings, extensive funding is need for repairing damaged welfare facilities, constructing and distributing temporary housing units, and operating mobile medical units.
2. Long-term Medical Costs and Mental Health Care
Approximately 91,000 are still living in evacuation shelters. In addition to physical injuries, many survivors are living in a state of shock, stress and depression due to the overwhelming losses. Some may feel guilt from escaping death while loved ones perished. Ongoing health care will be extremely costly.
3. Livelihoods
Many have lost their livelihoods in the fishing, farming, and other industries, and still need support. Reports of infectious diseases, caused by heat and poor hygiene conditions, are increasing as temperatures rise in the tsunami-affected regions. It could be many years before economy stabilizes and people return to work. The people of Japan need our help.
Join us in the fundraising effort of this worthwhile cause. Together we can make a significant impact. Each collection can holds approximately $75 in cash and change. If we can fill all 500 cans, we could raise $37,500. Imagine what this money could do for a community facing so many challenges.
If you have question, concerns or want to get more involved, please contact Rebekka Herrington of the GLMV Jaycees (847)975-9992.
