As if I wasn’t already excited enough to be back in Columbus, this week, I’ve seen how giving and committed to doing the right thing the people of this community are. The Mayor of Columbus and more than a dozen media outlets (including competing TV and radio stations) are partnering with the local American Red Cross chapter to raise money for Haiti relief. “Columbus Hope for Haiti
” is a day-long fundraiser, taking place online, on TV and radio, in print, and “in person” at the Ohio Historical Society on Thursday, January 21 from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
If you live in Central Ohio, I hope you’ll take part in this event and join your neighbors in supporting relief efforts in Haiti. Last week’s earthquake, combined with multiple aftershocks, has devastated this already-poor country. As you know by now, Haiti needs our help. So, if you have the capacity to give, please do. Even if it’s just $5 or $10 dollars. Here’s how:
- Call 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish)
- Make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org. You can choose to designate your contribution to the International Response Fund or for the Haiti response specifically
- Text “Haiti” to 90999 to make a $10 donation to the Red Cross. (Mobile-giving FAQs)
- Drop off a check or cash donation on Thursday, January 21 to the Ohio Historical Center. Rumor has it, we’ll have some Blue Jackets tickets to give away!
On Thursday, follow @cbushopeforhhaiti on Twitter or fan the Facebook page. We’ll be providing updates and sharing photos throughout the day from that account.
As a side note, I normally write about PR and social media here, and often discuss the importance of integrated communication. This is an excellent example of traditional and “new” communication working in tandem to achieve a significant goal. I’m happy to be part of the team.