Make That Change!

MJ TinkerBell · Apr 20, 2012

:bow:

ray::heart::bow:

MJ TinkerBell · May 30, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding another important initiative to improve the quality of life of innocent young children !! ray::heart:ray:

I know Michael would have done something to help them, so let US be the Michael in their rescue today!! :agree::heart:ray:

The Blog Article

About Us:

The British Columbia & Yukon Chapter has been granting wishes since 1987. This vast geographic area is the responsibility of our Provincial Office in Burnaby, with a staff of 7, backed by a team of dedicated volunteers and a supportive board. Like the rest of the Foundation, we never turn down a wish child. We are able to do this thanks to the generous support of the public, corporate sponsors, planned gifts, donated goods and services and funds raised through special events. Together, we are working to make life better for children all over British Columbia & Yukon .

Each year, thousands of Canadian children between the ages of three and 17 are diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada is dedicated to granting an exceptional wish to every child.

Established in 1984, Children's Wish is a national non-profit organization dedicated to fulfilling a favourite wish for children diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. Since its inception, Children's Wish has granted more than 18,000 wishes for children and their families and fulfills approximately 1000 wishes annually -- granting nearly three wishes everyday -- each being an individual adventure, carefully structured to meet the needs of that particular child. The foundation has never refused a wish to an eligible child.

7th Annual Round Of Wishes Golf Tournament, June 12th, 2012

Join us on June 12th, 2012 for the 7th Annual Round of Wishes Golf Tournament.Spots are still available for individuals, twosomes and foursomes. Sign up today and help "Create the Magic of a Wish!" Click here to register.In 2011, the golf tournament sold out and we anticipate the 7th Annual Round of Wishes Golf Tournament will be no exception. The tournament will be held at one of the Lower Mainland’s premier golf courses, Morgan Creek Golf Course, which has been voted the CPGA of BC “Facility of the Year” as well as Golf Digest’s “Places to Play”.Over the past six years, participants at the Round of Wishes Golf Tournament have enabled the Children`s Wish Foundation to raise $380,000. Proceeds from the tournament have granted nearly 40 wishes for children across British Columbia.

WISH STORIES

BRYDEN'S WISH

Award-Winning Philanthropist
Nine years ago, when Bryden Hutt was diagnosed with Omenn syndrome, nobody could have foreseen that his journey would eventually take him to Rideau Hall in Ottawa to receive a prestigious national honour from the Governor General and the Prime Minister of Canada.

He was barely six months old when his condition required a bone marrow transplant. A worldwide search for a suitable donor led to Felix Kruse of Germany. The transplant, although successful, also brought on a series of complications that would follow Bryden for much of his young life.

Five years later, when he was asked what his most heartfelt wish would be; Bryden said he wanted to meet his two greatest heroes. His first hero was that of many young boys: Lightning McQueen from the Disney movie Cars. His second hero was the young man whom he had never met who gave him the life-saving marrow he had needed when he was an infant.

Bryden, his parents Wendy and Jason and 29-year-old Kruse met for the first time ever at Disney World in Florida and spent a week that would leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Perhaps it was the life-changing experience of his wish trip combined with the generosity of a young man from halfway around the world that inspired Bryden to become a shining young philanthropist himself. Since the 2008 Disney trip, Bryden has become an advocate for Children’s Wish. Through his fundraising initiatives, the nine-year-old boy has raised over $20,000 for the Foundation- enough to grant the wishes of two other children and their families going through an unimaginable ordeal.

Along the way, his hard work has not gone unnoticed. In the autumn, 2011, Bryden received the Canadian Living Me to We Award in the Youth in Action for ages 12 & under. The awards, created in partnership between Me To We founders Craig and Mark Kielburger and Canadian Living magazine, recognize ordinary Canadians making an extraordinary difference in the world–thinking less about me and more about we. Bryden’s Me to We Award money will be donated to The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.

Then, in early February, Bryden was invited to be among the first 60 recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal recognizing Canadians who have made a significant contribution to a particular province, territory, region or community within Canada. His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, presided over the ceremony, along with the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada. The new commemorative medal was created to mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada.

Bryden’s journey from his hospital bed to Rideau Hall clearly illustrates the significant impact that a single wish can have on the lives of countless people near and far.

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BROOKE'S WISH

From Langley To Disney..
As far as Brooke is concerned she is just like any other nine-year-old, with the only difference being her kidneys don`t work the same way. This is not true. Many kids her age cry at the sight of a scraped knee, or at the thought of a needle from a doctor.

With Stage Four Chronic Kidney Disease, Brooke is a regular at the doctor’s office. But you won`t see brave Brooke cry or even wince. She may be young, but she is one tough cookie. Full of energy you will usually find Brooke dancing around her Langley home, playing with her brother and sister, or watching her favourite shows on the Disney channel.

When it came time to making her wish, Brooke decided she wanted to spend time with her much loved Disney characters both on Land and at Sea! Brooke, her parents Arianna and Fred, older sister Sidney, and younger brother Isaac went from winter in Langley, to sunny Florida where they spent three nights at Disneyworld followed by a four night Disney Cruise. Being far away from her doctors office gave Brooke and her parent’s time to solely focus on fun, family, and Mickey Mouse of course!

KIEREN'S WISH

Rediscovering Childhood..
Kieren suffers from Synovial Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer which usually occurs near the joints of the arm, neck or leg. Other than his illness, Kieren is just like every other 11-year-old boy: he enjoys building things, especially model trains, and likes to play sports. Kieren also loves candy and chocolate. But an illness as severe as cancer can sometimes cause a child and his family to forget that he is still a child.

Kieren’s wish was to go to Walt Disney World and stay at the Give Kids the World Village. Disney World has magical powers, ones that are truly capable of helping a child and his family emerge from under the shadow of a life threatening illness and rediscover his childhood. Upon hearing that they were going to Disney, Kieren and his sister Hannah were ecstatic. As their departure date neared, “Kieren and Hannah were so excited, and we were on the edge of tears, to see them so happy,” his mom Sharon recalls.

But that was just the start of the fun. Things really took off when the family got to Disney. Sharon raves, “It was just amazing. There were things Kieren had never done, like riding a horse, which he got to do. Kieren and Hannah swam and played and planned out all of their favorite amusement park rides. They were like kids with all of the Disney characters, which is as it should be - they really played and had fun and are still so happy - for that we can never thank you enough. And they were so patient travelling, even on the way home. We are all very grateful for this trip as a family.”

LUCA'S WISH

Fun In The Sun...

Luca is a typical 10-year-old boy. He loves to play soccer and street hockey with his friends. But unlike his friends, Luca isn’t always able to enjoy the sports he is so passionate about. At age two, Luca was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic illness which affects the entire body and is characterized by difficulty breathing.

Luca and his mom (Lisa) and dad (Jim) just returned from their wish trip to Hawaii. Lisa recalls, “Waikiki was beautiful. The weather was perfect. Luca loved going down the slide at the pool and boogie boarding. One of his favourite things was kayaking at Kailua beach with his dad. He did so well and just loved it.”

The positive impact that wishes have on a sick child are the reason they exist. Luca wrote, “I loved the sun so much. The ocean was warmer than the pool! I made some friends and we had fun playing pool in the lobby. I liked everything, every day was so fun. I will remember this trip forever, it was so much fun. Thank you for making my wish come true!”

“A big thank you to The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada. What an amazing organization, to be able to bring such joy to children and their families," raves Lisa.

Childrens Wish Foundation - Darcy Lee's Dream Team
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A Tale of Two Brothers - Pacey's Wish Film
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Children's Wish Foundation- Summer 2011 Wish Child
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1ST ANNUAL CHILDREN’S WISH MONTH A BIG HIT!

The BC & Yukon Chapter’s first annual Children’s Wish Month, held in March 2012, was a tremendous success, raising over $26,000, which led to the granting of nine wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses: Bruin (Fiji): Cameron (Hawaii), Jessica (Disney), Donovan (cruise), Simran (Disney), Elizabeth (Hawaii), Javier (Paris), Parveen (Mexico) and Luca (Hawaii).
The month began in fine fashion with Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General for the Province of BC and Steven L. Point, Lieutenant Governor, signing a proclamation (see slideshow below) declaring March 2012 “Children’s Wish Month.” Bear Studios then created the wonderful Wish Month video (see above) that became the key feature of Wish Month. The month was highlighted by two tremendous new signature events, the first annual Princess Tea Party, which featured high tea and enchanting entertainment at the Coast Hotel at Cascades and the first annual Ice Carnival, with skating and other winter fun, at the Pitt Meadows Arena.
Community-based events were held throughout BC, including Brian’s Walk for Wishes, Fun for Kidz and Bring Colours to Life. Wish Month even inspired children to get in the spirit of helping their peers, with $120 being raised by four grade 5 students at Blessed Sacrament Elementary School in Vancouver. During March, media attention in BC & Yukon for Children’s Wish peaked at an all-time high, thanks in part to The Foundation being selected as Corus Radio’s “Corus Cares” Charity of the Month. There were also significant increases in likes and followers on Facebook and Twitter respectively. “Our first annual Wish Month was a huge success! A big thanks to the 75 volunteers and all donors who supported Children’s Wish throughout this important time,” says Amber Dyce, Chapter Director of The Children’s Wish Foundation - British Columbia and Yukon.

For more information on Wish Month, visit: www.wishmonth.ca

For more information on the 7th Annual Round Of Wishes Golf Tournament, June 12th, 2012 ..
For more information and to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.roundofwishes.ca or contact:
Alexandra Eady, Chapter Event Coordinator
Phone: 604-299-2241
Email: alex.eady@childrenswish.ca

The Source:

http://www.childrenswish.ca/

International Partners
http://www.childrenswish.ca/en-bc/partners/national

MJ TinkerBell:heart:ray::heart:

MJ TinkerBell · Jun 21, 2012

:bow::clapping::group:

A Million times Thank-you qbee for your tireless work and efforts to make this Thread beautifully restored again for us ray:

MJ TinkerBell · Jun 21, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding another important initiative to improve the quality of life of innocent young children !! ray::heart:ray:
I know Michael would have done something to help them, so let US be the Michael in their rescue today!!
:agree::heart:ray:

Little Children of the World, Inc.

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ABOUT US

WHAT IS LCW?

Little Children of the World Incorporated (LCW) is an international and interdominational Christian agency dedicated to helping develop caring communities for children at risk. Incorporated in Atlanta Georgia , in 1987, LCW seeks to address the plight of street children and those who are victims of extreme poverty in developing countries.

Little Children of the Philippines (LCP), a subsidiary of LCW, was incorporated in 1989 in Dumaguete City on the island of Negros. LCP has grown significantly in the number of people served and the comprehensive nature of its programs. As of July, 2003 another LCW project was launched in the Phillipines, in Ingan on the island of Leyte, and administered by a Filipino-American, Marciana Hope, living in Vancouver, Washington.

These at-risk children often go unnoticed except by those who use them for economic gain or exploitation. An estimated 150 million worldwide, according to UNICEF, due to adverse circumstances spend much of their childhood on the streets, vending or begging, and are vulnerable to all kinds of abuse.

The more fortunate LCP families in Dumaguete live at the LCP Bloomington Farm Housing project or in Habitat for Humanity housing. Otherwise, most of the families live in nipa huts and must fetch their water from a neighborhood pump. Others live in squatter areas where they built shelters of scrap wood and thatch. Raw sewage often runs between the houses, and prostitution and gambling are common. The children of misfortune who grow up under these conditions have much less chance of survival than children in developed countries, due to limited government resources and few non-government organizations. Furthermore, children who survive often suffer permanent damage to their health and well being.

LCP, a subsidiary of LCW, now has a ministry to more than 5,000 people in 14 communities on Negros Island who participate in and benefit from the LCP project. They are supported by child sponsors from 40 states and 9 countries around the world. The following distinctive features make this program unique: (1) family centered, (2) community based, (3) participatory (i.e. managed largely by the beneficiaries), (4) comprehensive (covering the basic needs of the children). LCW has two boards: a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council.

Why should you get involved?

-There are an estimated 150 million street children worldwide. 1.5 million are currently in the Phillipines.

-35,000 children worldwide die of starvation, malnutrition, or related diseases every day.

-An estimated 2.2 million Filipino preschoolers suffer from malnutrition.

-Every day 300 Filipino children die of preventable or curable diseases like pneumonia, diarrhea, and measles.

LCW encourages you to invest a portion of your life in helping to rescue children from the dire effects of poverty, neglect, or abuse.

Accountability

Little Children of the World, Inc. is strictly accountable for all funds received. It is incorporated as a not-for-profit service organization and holds the 501{c}3 status with the Internal Revenue Service. The money received for child sponsorships is sent, in monthly remittances, directly to the overseas project site for child services. All accounts are computerized at the Treasurer’s Office in Barnesville, Georgia. An annual audited report is prepared by Robyn Underwood, Auditor, Barnesville, Georgia.

A list of donors is published annually and mailed to all LCW donors together with the quarterly newsletter. A list of child sponsors is printed monthly on an Excel spread sheet, including the children currently sponsored and the type of payment arrangement chosen by each sponsor. The audited report is available upon request, and lists of donors are mailed to sponsors and donors once a year.

The LCW Financial/Sponsorship Office is located in Barnesville, Georgia under the leadership of Glenna Waller, LCW President/CFO. This office is responsible for receipting all donations and preparing financial reports and budgets. The Barnesville Office also manages the Sponsorship Program, Publishes newsletters, Overseas Volunteer Program, and is responsible for website updates.

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There are numerous ways you can help the children living in dire poverty. You can help by praying, sponsorship, donations to programs, and/or donating items to the LCW office to ship to the Philippines.

LCW needs support for all twelve of the well-established programs. This holistic approach requires funding for all the children needs as explained by the acronym HELPS. The Urgent Needs funding provides help in the programs where most needed. However, if a donor prefers to give to a particular program you may do so by designating it with your donation.

We feel the effect of the prayers of all our sponsors, donors, and staff knowing that without God’s guidance LCW/LCP would not be successful. Prayer under girds all that we do and this is one way you certainly can help.

The greatest need, at least visibly, over the long run is perhaps the sponsorship program. The sponsor bonds with a needy child and has a sense of gratitude as he/she sees the child’s progress and growth and eventually graduation and success in the workplace.

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VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer – why should I get involved?
Most people want to travel and see the world – Little Children of the World can make it possible to combine service with adventure by volunteering at our Philippine project in Dumaguete, Philippines.

The LCW/LCP programs allow you to invest a portion of your life in helping rescue children from the dire effects of poverty, neglect, or abuse.

LCP Current Situation
The following is a description of the Current Situation of LCP:

Twenty five years after its founding, as of February 2012, Little Children of the Philippines, Inc. (LCP) now serves a constituency of more than 5,000 low-income Filipino children, youth and parents, in 14 depressed communities/barangays of the province of Negros Oriental. During the past eleven years the number of barangays served has increased from eight to fourteen, and the number of sponsored preschools from three to eight. The enrollment in Sunday School has increased from approximately 300 to nearly 2000. More than 625 children, ranging from age five to twenty, who are victims of poverty and vulnerable to abuse are sponsored by friends of Little Children of the World.

LCP has grown also in the number of international volunteers who add considerably to the work force. They come from various nations including the USA, Philippines, Canada, England, Ireland, Sweden, Italy, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. They use their training and experience to enhance the existing programs and sometimes even initiate new ones like the Lice Treatment Project and the Soup Kitchens. A number of Filipino professionals, especially physicians, provide service to LCP member families and LCP volunteers for no cost or at greatly reduced prices. The local Red Cross has been helpful in training LCP’s community paramedics. Peace Corps workers have also contributed time and resourses through the years.

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For more information:
The Source:

http://littlechildren.org/

MJ TinkerBell:heart:ray::heart:

MJ TinkerBell · Jul 9, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding another important initiative to improve the quality of life of innocent at risk children and young people stay off the streets to stay alive in Chicago ILL. !! ray::heart:ray:

I know Michael would have done something to help them, so let US be the Michael in their rescue today !! :agree::heart:ray:

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Kids Off The Block, Inc. (KOB)

About
Kids Off The Block has made a commitment to the youth in our communities. We will guide you, respect you, care for you, love you, provide a safe place for you, build a relationship with you, listen to you, and help you to succeed.

Mission
Our mission is to provide at-risk low income youth positive alternatives to drugs, gangs, truancy, violence and the juvenile justice system.

Company Overview
Kids Off The Block was founded in July 2003 in the home of Diane Latiker, since July 2010, we have moved to an office space. Beginning with 10 kids from the neighborhood, KOB has it's known, now serves hundreds of youth across the city of Chicago.

We are based in the Roseland Community on the far southside of Chicago. We service youth 12-24 years of age. Monday thru Friday 4:00pm to 8:00pm

Description
Kids Off The Block is an after school / community youth organization. Our primary focus is Youth Violence / Youth Development. Our goals are to change the mindset of negative behavior, give youth resources needed to help youth become successful citizens of society.

General Information
Our services include: Tutoring/Mentoring, Music, Drama, Sports, Community Service, Out of Town Travel, GED Preparation, and Life Skills

Founded July 15, 2003

Awards
CNN Top Ten Hero of 2011 / CNN Hero of the Week, Marion N'Zinga Award, Cook County Peggy A. Montes "Unsung Heroine Award, Fenger High School "Community Youth Activist Award Dwayne Wade Foundation " Village Keepers Award" Diane Latiker

Diane Latiker: Kids Off The Block, Hope & Healing for Youth
by The South Bay Show....Tue, June 26, 2012

Our guest this morning is Diane Latiker. Diane began with prayer as so many great things have begun. Her idea was simple, if I can get my daughter, Aisha and her friends off the street and doing something productive with their time. They will be safer and do better. As Maya Angelu has said, "When you know better you do better."
When Diane's mother suggested that she "Do Something" with the kids, she did whatever she was led to do.

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
-- Maya Angelou
I have a feeling that Diane Latiker will have made a lot of young people's lives better, when it's all said and done.
They will remember how she made them feel ... loved, wanted, like they matter.
And that's what everyone wants to feel. That's what every child wants to feel.
That's what every child deserves to feel in a society that honors it's children and hopes for the future.

The Blog Radio Interview with Diane Latiker KOB
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thesouthbayshow/2012/06/26/the-south-bay-show

SECRET MILLIONAIRE – Steve Kaplan with Diane Latiker of KOB Chicago, IL

ABC's Secret Millionaire ~ Featuring KOB & Diane

Thank you to everyone who watched the show, it was both amazing and an honor to have met the producers, the organizations, and of course Steve! The viewing party was awesome, thank you to everyone who came out to share with us! Thank you to KOB "Tha Movement" for representing well.

There is still much work to be done, I want so much to see our Young People vibrant, happy and successful citizens of society. With everyone's help, they can be just that!!

Please help, listen, and guide a child/youth/young adult so we all can live in peace. One thing we all have in common, and that's we were all young once, we needed all the help we could get! At least I did.

When I think of the goodness of Jesus and alllllllllll he's done for me, my soul cries out "HALLELUJAH" I praise GOD for saving me!! I know that it is because of him that I live and thrive, Thank you Jesus!

Thank you,
Diane

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For more information:

11627 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60628
Phone: 1 (773) 995-9077

The Source:

http://www.kobchicago.org

info@kobchicago.org

http://www.kobchicago.org

The KOB Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/dianekob

MJ TinkerBell:heart:ray::heart:

MJ TinkerBell · Jul 19, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding an amazing opportunity and important initiative to actually go to AFRICA, to be hands on in your efforts to MAKE THAT CHANGE ! ray::heart:ray:

We all know how much Michael loved AFRICA and it's people ! We all have seen how much AFRICA loved Michael so let US be the Michael in their rescue today !! :agree::heart:ray:

Volunteer Abroad

Volunteer Abroad is Cross-Cultural Solutions' most popular program, year after year, and offered in all the countries where we operate. Start dates for Volunteer Abroad are available year-round, and program fees are based on length of stay.
Volunteer Abroad is the perfect short-term international volunteer experience, designed with flexibility and individual attention in mind so we can meet your needs and interests while ensuring that your time spent is effectively contributing to a positive impact on the community. Review what to expect from a typical day, read our volunteer perspectives to learn more about how the program truly offers the experience of a lifetime, or calculate your program fee.

Choose where you volunteer:
Volunteer Abroad is available in 12 countries, Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Morocco, Peru, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania and Thailand.

Choose when you go:
Volunteer Abroad start dates are available year-round.

Choose how long you stay:
Volunteer Abroad is available from 2-12 weeks. Only have one week? Consider Insight Abroad.

Receive a personalized Volunteer Abroad placement –
Our local staff determine your Volunteer Abroad placement through an evaluation of your personal skills and interests and matches it with the immediate needs of the community. There are a variety of volunteer placements available, where you will work side-by-side with local people in orphanages and child care centers, schools, health clinics and hospitals, homes for the elderly, centers for people with disabilities, and other community organizations.

Gain an inside perspective –
CCS in-country staff provide Cultural & Learning Activities so you and your fellow volunteers can learn about the local culture and customs, as well as understand community development. Activities are specially designed to help you become a more effective volunteer, and more knowledgeable about the issues facing the community. There is also Free Time to relax, reflect, or explore the community.

~ myndoto ~ my african dream

Two years ago I came to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania with a group called Cross Cultural Solutions. I taught english at The House of Learning (HOL) to orphans and vulnerable children. Some of you may be laughing, me teaching english! I quickly fell in love. I was in love with the country, the students, the people, the African life. I knew when I returned home I would never be the same. My students taught me more about life in the few weeks I was with them than in all of my 37 years combined. I desperately wanted to re pay them in some way. In 2011, I (along with a fellow volunteer, Melissa Ryan) started a non profit organization, 1NDOTO Inc. I returned to the HOL in January 2012 for five weeks. When I returned from this trip, I knew it was time for a change! SO, I quit my well paying job of nine years to dedicate my life to the students of HOL and Kilimanjaro! Welcome to my journey…….

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The Countries To Choose From:

AFRICA
-Ghana
-Morocco
-South Africa
-Tanzania

ASIA
-China
-India
-Thailand

EASTERN EUROPE
-Russia

LATIN AMERICA
-Brazil
-Costa Rica
-Guatemala
-Peru

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The Intern Abroad program is an incredible opportunity for students to do an international internship or gain work experience in the areas of Education, Health, or Social Services. Cross-Cultural Solutions is a recognized leader in international volunteering, and our Intern Abroad program provides a supportive and academic framework to the volunteer experience. Since the entire program is carefully built from the learning objectives you define, you’ll be able to achieve your internship goals like you’ve never imagined.

Insight Abroad, our one-week volunteer abroad program, gives you the opportunity to work side-by-side with local people and experience another culture like never before.
Insight Abroad is identical to our flagship program, Volunteer Abroad, in virtually every respect, except that we have made special provisions for the fact that volunteers are there for only one week. It’s the experience of a lifetime!

Teen Volunteer Abroad is an exciting and unique teens-only international volunteer experience designed just for high school students, ages 14 to 17, by Cross-Cultural Solutions. Teens have the amazing and rare opportunity to volunteer in Africa, Asia, or Latin America for 1, 2, or 3 weeks where they will participate on a group project and gain valuable international experience, confidence, lasting friendships, and even a competitive edge for college.

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The Sources:

http://www.crossculturalsolutions.o...er_In_Africa&gclid=COXot7_QprECFaQaQgodqkMAmQ

http://community.crossculturalsolutions.org/

Volunteer in Africa
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/africa.aspx

Volunteer in Ghana
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/africa/volunteer-ghana.aspx

Volunteer in Morocco
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/africa/volunteer-morocco.aspx

Volunteer in South Africa
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/africa/volunteer-south-africa.aspx

Volunteer in Tanzania
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/africa/volunteer-tanzania.aspx

Volunteer in Asia
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/asia.aspx

Volunteer in China
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/asia/volunteer-china.aspx

Volunteer in India
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/asia/volunteer-india.aspx

Volunteer in Thailand
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/asia/volunteer-thailand.aspx

Volunteer in Eastern Europe
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/eastern-europe.aspx

Volunteer in Latin America
http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/countries/latin-america.aspx

myndoto ~ my african dream
http://myndoto.wordpress.com/about/

MJ TinkerBell · Aug 10, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding an amazing opportunity and important initiative to save Children with Aids !! :heart:ray:
We all know how much Michael fought passionately about curing AIDS in AFRICA and around the world so let US be the Michael in their rescue today !! :agree: :heart: MAKE THAT CHANGE ! :heart:ray:

The Children With AIDS Project of America

HIV/AIDS: The Forgotten Children

In 1986, Joy and Jim Jenkins began their quest to adopt. Three years later, on October 6, 1989, they celebrated the adoption of their first child, James Michael... the first AIDS adoption in Arizona. It marked the beginning of a home-based project that was to become the internationally known Children With AIDS Project of America.

CWA seeks out adoptive parents for HIV infants and children, AIDS orphans, and drug addicted infants. The organization also locates these children who need permanent, loving families, and brings the two together. There is no charge for these services.

Finding their mission

When the story of their first adoption hit the news, the couple was inundated with letters from around the world - from agencies trying to place abandoned babies with AIDS, and from people eager to adopt AIDS children. With knowledge gained during their own adoption process, and with help from others in the special needs adoption field like the DeBolts of Adopt A Special Kid, Joy and Jim Jenkins found their calling.

They saw a tremendous gap between the children and potential families, and they began to compile a database of names on both sides of the equation: available children and loving families; then started a process of referring one to the other through agencies, attorneys, churches, and other organizations. Donated computer and office equipment, corporate sponsorship, and charitable donations continue to help this remarkable couple maintain the momentum and growth of their efforts to help those whom they call the "forgotten children."

Who are HIV children?

Between 20% and 40% of children born to HIV-infected mothers are themselves infected with HIV. Antibodies passively transferred to the child during pregnancy can appear as HIV infection in test results for as long as 12-15 months, even though the child may not be truly HIV-positive. (This was the case with the Jenkins' son, who tested positive as an infant, but as he grew older, his results turned negative.)

In the case of infants who are perinatally infected, as many as 50% will die before their second birthdays. A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test which looks for the DNA of the virus, can differentiate between infants with maternal antibodies and those who are truly infected. When used, results have shown to be 90% accurate when the baby is 4 weeks old, and 99% accurate at 6 months; however, this test may not be widely available.

Number of AIDS orphans is rising dramatically

Children who lose their parents to AIDS have been named "AIDS orphans" by the press. It is estimated that the number of these children in the US will reach somewhere between 80,000 - 125,000 by the year 2000. While parents with AIDS are encouraged to make care plans for their children, many do not, can not, or have not, and a large percentage of these children will end up in an already overburdened public welfare system.

Forgotten no more

One adoption back in 1989 has grown into hope for the children, and hope for the system. The CWA database now numbers over 1,000 waiting families - from all states and three foreign countries. The organization's work has resulted in the placement of many children in permanent and foster homes, and an increased awareness of the needs of HIV children and AIDS orphans.

Today, the Children With AIDS Project of America is a national publicly supported non-profit organization (501c3) and has moved into offices in Phoenix, where Jim mans the computers.

In addition to its primary services of referring families to children and children to families, CWA services include AIDS advocacy and education, speaking engagements, and networking with support groups.

The Children With AIDS Project of America offers books, tapes, pamphlets, and information packets for those interested in adopting, becoming foster parents, or providing respite care. Information is also available on speaking engagements, advocacy, and other issues surrounding adoption.

The baby that Joy and Jim Jenkins first adopted was much like numerous babies who will be born this year with HIV in the U.S. as well as through out the globe. The Jenkins didn’t know just over a year later he would test negative for HIV and that Children With AIDS Project of America would be founded and gaining strength with the help of people like you.
Now CWA offers a variety of services for children infected/affected by AIDS or drug exposed infants who will require foster or adoptive families. CWA works to create adoptive, foster, family centered care programs that are both effective and compassionate.

The aim of the Children With AIDS Project of America (CWA) is to transform the silence that surrounds HIV infected, affected children and AIDS orphans into an audible sound. This sound must be amplified until the needs are met for all children in the nation and globally affected by the AIDS epidemic.

One Couple's Crusade
When Joy and Jim Jenkins took little James Michael into their home and hearts, they knew he might have AIDS. But they loved him no matter what - and that love has grown into their lives' true calling.
By Joy Jenkins as told to Jean Libman Block
Copyright (c) 1990 The Hearst Corporation - Reprinted with permission from Good Housekeeping
http://www.adopting.org/uni/frame.php?url=http://www.aidskids.org/

For more information

The Source:
http://www.adopting.org/uni/frame.php?url=http://www.aidskids.org/

qbee · Aug 10, 2012

Thank you MJ Tinkerbell :flowers:

MJ TinkerBell · Sep 30, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding an amazing opportunity and important initiative to help thousands of families in Africa !! :heart:ray:

We all know how much Michael passionately loved AFRICA ! So let US be the Michael in their rescue today !! :agree: :heart: MAKE THAT CHANGE ! :heart:ray:

Re~Cycle's mission is to collect unwanted bicycles and ship them to Africa.

Bicycles Change Lives - updated 19th July 2012

Transport and development go hand-in-hand. Virtually everything traded, must be transported, and almost everyone needs wheels to get to work or school. Simple, affordable transport generates income opportunities in developing countries, as well as saving lots of time and back-breaking work.

In Britain, millions of bikes are thrown away or lie unused in sheds, whilst many people in Africa have no access to transport of any kind. People spend hours each day walking to collect water, firewood or to access health care, school and employment. A bicycle lightens this burden and dramatically improves their wellbeing as well as work and education opportunities helping to bring social change. A bicycle cuts travel time to a fraction and can carry passengers and heavy loads. Bikes give families the extra time to earn, learn and enjoy life.

The ever growing list below shows the countries that the bikes have been sent to since we started shipping to Africa in 1998. We have now sent more than 100 container shipments and will reach 40,000 bikes sent early in 2012 - all thanks to the donations of bikes, time and money from our many wonderful supporters. Very many thanks to all who have supported our work.

The Source:
http://www.re-cycle.org/

MJ TinkerBell · Oct 9, 2012

Virgin's "Phones for Change" provides Homeless Youth with Lifeline..
October 04, 2012

VANCOUVER/WINNIPEG - Increasingly mobile phones are becoming a lifeline to employment and services. To help at-risk and homeless youth Virgin Mobile Canada and Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group, have launched a new initiative called Phones for Change. The program has partnered with Vancouver's Broadway Youth Resource Centre (BYRC) and Winnipeg's Resource Assistance for Youth (RaY), to give at-risk and homeless youth access to Virgin mobile phones and plans. At the same time is educates them on the importance of financial management and how to escape the cycle of debt.

"I've always said that we should be using our businesses to create a lasting impact in this world - and this program does just that," said Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group. "With at-risk and homeless youth having so much to go without, a mobile phone is more than just an accessory - it's their lifeline to employment and services."

The Phones For Change program teaches transitioning youth how to develop life and financial management skills. Youth nominated by each organization will receive a Virgin Mobile phone that offers a method of contact with employers, potential landlords, friends and support services. The pilot program will run for one year in Vancouver and Winnipeg with the goal of expanding to more markets in 2013.

"Our goal with Phones for Change is to improve the lives of at-risk and homeless youth," says Andrew Bridge, managing director, Virgin Mobile Canada. "When we heard from our partners that phones can be such a lifeline for youth, it just made sense to find a way to help and build a program that could address this. As we see the impact that this pilot program can create, we hope to expand it even further in coming years."

In the coming months, youth from each organization will be screened for eligibility. Once nominated, youth receive a Virgin Mobile phone which includes a low cost monthly plan to meet their specific needs. While the plans are provided free of charge by Virgin Mobile, each organization will set up monthly bills that the youth are responsible for. The local organization will then use those monthly payments to contribute to the youth's pre-existing debt.

In addition to providing the phones and services, Virgin Mobile & Virgin Unite's RE Generation will make social investments in each organization to support financial training and personal budgeting programs. While youth who are part of Phones for Change are asked to participate in these programs, the training program will be open to any youth who work with the local organization.

"Phones for Change can open new doors for youth involved in our program," said Jocelyn Helland, manager of the Broadway Youth Resource Centre. "At Broadway Youth Resource Centre, we offer almost every kind of support for at-risk and homeless youth; and now we can add financial literacy and debt support to the mix. With this program, they will get the support and tools they need to move on to the bigger and brighter futures they deserve."

"This not only gives street youth a lifeline to safety, but also an opportunity to learn financial literacy. Our thanks goes out to Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Unite and Virgin Mobile for thinking outside the box,” said Kelly Holmes, executive director, Resource Assistance for Youth.

OUR MISSION

At Virgin Mobile, we’re about being a force for good and taking action within our local community. In early 2008, Virgin Mobile Canada and Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group, joined forces to create the RE*Generation movement. RE*Generation aims to empower a generation to help its own and provide a national platform to discuss issues affecting at-risk and homeless youth. As we soon learned through research and global discussions, over 65,000 homeless youth and at-risk youth were located in Canada. With the power of RE*Generation, we can help shine a light on the issue to create lasting solutions and provide essential services needed for at-risk youth in Canada.

THE 2012 AWARDS FOR ENDING YOUTH HOMELESSNESS !

In collaboration with Eva’s Initiatives, Virgin Unite & Virgin Mobile’s RE*Generation has supported Canadian organizations for their dedicated work with homeless and at-risk youth through the 2012 Awards for Ending Youth Homelessness. Winning organizations were chosen based on the organization’s pro-social initiative and its overall impact in helping to end youth homelessness in Canada.

Congratulations to Youth Opportunities Unlimited, Choices For Youth, Centre Jacques-Cartier and The Doorway for being selected as the 2012 award recipients!

The Sources

http://www.virginmobile.ca/en/why-choose-us/regen.html?province=BC&geoResult=BC

'Phones for Change' launched in CanadaBy Jack Preston - Oct 05, 2012
http://www.virgin.com/media-and-mobile/news/phones-for-change-launched-in-canada

http://www.cartt.ca/news/14407/Cabl...ge-provides-homeless-youth-with-lifeline.html

MJ TinkerBell · Oct 23, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:group::bow:

I found this regarding another important initiative to improve the quality of life of innocent young children ! A friend of Michael's named Steve Wynn is the Co-Founder of this important project ray::heart:ray:

I know Michael would have done something to help them, so let US be the Michael in their rescue today!! :agree::heart:ray:

The Blog Article

Cross Cultural Solutions Welcomes All Volunteers ..Posted by Anni April 2012

Journeys for Good

In my research over the past few months, I’ve come across an astonishingly wide variety of volunteering organizations. Many of them have a specific demographic target: college students, established professionals, the under 18 crowd, or retirees. From a business perspective, it makes good sense to choose a niche. It’s easier to plan for the needs of a specific group than for the needs of all. It’s also easier to market to one demographic—you can focus your efforts on a narrower field of publications, television programs, social media platforms or events. This strategy is ideal for the volunteer looking to find a group of similarly situated people with which to travel and work, but what about the volunteer who wants a more diverse experience?

Cross Cultural Solutions is a volunteer company that welcomes all sorts of applicants. Volunteers work with CCS staff to find the perfect opportunity, and they can choose a placement with people like them, or with a collection of all sorts of people, from all over the world. Volunteer placements include: orphanages, child care centers, schools, hospitals and health clinics, centers for people with disabilities, homes for the elderly, and other community organizations. They have outposts in 12 countries: Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Chana, Guatemala, India, Morocco, Peru, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Thailand.

CCS offers all of the amenities I’ve come to expect from a solid volunteering organization. They employ local staff for volunteer placement, oversight, and to assess the ever-changing needs of the communities they serve. Volunteers always have a resource in-country in case of emergency or to answer run-of-the-mill questions. CCS also offers cultural education opportunities so volunteers can learn about local cultures and customs. Volunteers leave the experience with a complex and nuanced understanding of the challenges that face the communities in which they work.

CCS is a non-profit organization dedicated to sustainable projects. This philosophy—to establish a lasting presence that continues to serve local needs over time—puts CCS in the elite category of volunteer organizations that make a legitimate, permanent difference. Any new volunteer organization, no matter what project it champions or what demographics it targets, should be taking a lesson from CCS. The organizations that stick around are the ones that put down roots. It doesn’t matter if organization has a single project in a single village, if that organization is dedicated to the long-term success of that single project, the business will likely succeed because the volunteers will come. Everyone wants to be part of something real, something bigger than themselves. Create that thing, and watch people get inspired.

Here at Journeys for Good, we are committed to growing a community of global citizens. We celebrate volunteer travel experiences, volunteer heroes, and organizations that make a difference.

Journeys for Good co-founder Steve Wynn embarks on a voluntour project in Cusmapa, Nicaragua with Roadmonkey Adventure Philanthropy.
[youtube]pL_p5nx7L44[/youtube]

Welcome back to our interview series, The Ripple Effect. The Ripple Effect explores the emotional impact of volunteer travel and its lasting effect on people’s lives. Today we’re speaking with Jodie Young, a young British world traveler, volunteer, blogger, photographer, and adventurer. Please check back in later this week for part two of our interview with Jodie.

The Ripple Effect: Meet Jodie Young, World Traveler, Photographer, and Volunteer.. Part One - October 2012
http://journeys4good.com/blog/volun...traveler-photographer-and-volunteer-part-one/

The Ripple Effect: Meet Jodie Young, World Traveler, Photographer, and Volunteer..Part Two - October 2012
http://journeys4good.com/blog/inter...traveler-photographer-and-volunteer-part-two/

Voluntour Stephanie is deeply moved by a story about a little girl from the village in Cusmapa, Nicaragua.
[youtube]GnZdjf-OR70[/youtube]

For more information:

The Source:

http://journeys4good.com/blog/volunteering/cross-cultural-solutions-welcomes-all-volunteers/

MJ TinkerBell:heart:ray::heart:

thrillerchild · Oct 24, 2012

This latest info have been posted to twitter as well

MJ TinkerBell · Nov 21, 2012

:ciao:MJ Fan-mily:heart:

I found this regarding another important initiative to improve the quality of life of innocent young children !

I know Michael would have done something to help them, so let US be the Michael in their LIVES today!! ray::heart:ray:

Project Yesu

About Us

In October 2011 I sat down to write my Christmas list for my parents, I looked around my room and I realized there was nothing I needed, nothing I wanted. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought about the children in Africa, and how they weren’t going to get Christmas presents, and there was a lot of things that they needed.

So, I sent my parents an email with my Christmas list, one thing on it, to help Africa.See, in August of 2010 the Ugandan Orphan Children’s Choir came to my church to perform, and I got to meet the children, and they were amazing. They were so loving, and just wanted to hug me and hold my hand. My mom had also started doing work for a couple of organizations that helped in Uganda, so she had taught me about the children there.

The day after I sent the email my parents and I sat down and talked about what I wanted to do, and how I wanted to help. I contacted Amazima Ministries and Project Have Hope and I told them what I wanted to do, and I asked them how I could best help them. That is how Project Yesu was born.

My goals at first were simple, I wanted to raise $600 to sponsor 2 children, one from Amazima and one from Project Have Hope. When you sponsor a child, it pays for food, medicine and sends them to school. I also decided I wanted to send Christmas cards to the children in Uganda, I mean who doesn’t like to get a card, it makes you smile. So I drew two different card designs and I contacted a local printing company and asked them if they would donate the printing of 650 cards, they did.

So I started to tell people about Project Yesu, and my mom helped me start a blog so people could read about it. I met with my Children’s pastor and asked if our youth group could help me with the cards, because I wanted them to be personal, so I needed a lot of help to write out 650 cards. I also spoke to my youth group, and told them about Project Yesu and about the children in Uganda and asked them to help me raise money.

Every week I set up a booth at my church to tell people about my project, and the word spread. In only 8 weeks I raised over $2,400 and I was able to sponsor 7 children. It was way more then I had originally planned on and it was great. I got to meet some wonderful people, and tell them my story. I was invited to go to WAYFM a Christian radio station because they learned about my project, and I was even on TV. The NBC station out of Nasvhille did a story on Project Yesu.

I read a quote one day from Mahatma Ghandi that said, “Be the change you want to see in the world”. That’s what I want to do, I want to be the change, I want to make a difference, I want to help people. Everyone thinks kids are selfish or that we’re just kids and we can’t do anything like this. I want to show people what a difference one person can make. If someone, because they heard about me, or met me, decides that they can be a change too, then it will spread from me, to that person, to another person and so on.

Kids have good ideas, and you know what? We don’t know all the reasons why it won’t work, we just know we what we want to do. I know with Project Yesu, I am making a difference, not only in the lives of the seven children in Uganda who now have food, medicine and can go to school. But I am making a difference in the lives of my family, my friends, my teachers and even people I have never met before.

I want Project Yesu to continue to spread and grow, and to do that I need people like you, who are reading this post to spread the word and to help me. My goals for 2012 is to raise $4,500 – who knows maybe I’ll double that this year or even triple that and be able to help more and more children in Uganda. I plan to travel to Uganda in December of 2012 to hand deliver the Christmas cards to the children, to meet my sponsored children and to love on the children of Uganda who have changed my life.

So I have accepted the challenge to be the change….will you?

Get Involved
You can get involved in these 5 easy ways:

1 – “Be The ¢hange Campaign!” campaign

How can you partner with Project Yesu to help us reach our goals? Be The ¢hange! We are looking for families, scout troops, classrooms, youth groups and other groups to partner with PY and accept the challenge to “Be the Change!” by collecting coins to help us reach our goals for 2012!

Have you accepted the “Be The ¢hange” challenge? send us photos of your coin collection to post on our site!

2 – Donate

We welcome donations of any amount, 100% of the money raised goes to help the children in Uganda – click on the Donate Now button on the top of the page to donate via PayPal you purchase some gear, send us a photo of you sporting your PY gear so we can share it on our site.

3 – Support Project Yesu by sporting our gear

Check our store to see the latest in PY gear – tshirts and wristbands are available to help spread the message of “Be The Change” Remember, if you purchase some gear, send us a photo of you sporting your PY gear so we can share it on our site

4 – Spread the word

Tell everyone you know about Project Yesu so we can help as many children in Uganda as we can – post about us on Facebook, on Twitter, any way you can…spread the word!

5 – Host a bead party

This is done through Project Have Hope part of their program is to empower women to change their lives and gives them a business so they can provide for their family. They make beautiful magazine bead jewelry. Invite your friends over and believe me the jewelry sells itself, its unique and beautiful. 30% of total sales will go towards Project Yesu. Email info@projectyesu.org to sign up to host a bead party today!

Lydia Opening Her Christmas Present
[youtube]nBu_2DI99sg[/youtube]

LOVE seeing their smiles as they read their Christmas cards
[youtube]orcmOSqGaCI[/youtube]

Watching this children open, read and share their Christmas cards that we sent to them
[youtube]avKaeBOf7uI[/youtube]

Project Yesu
Please watch this video about Mallory's Christmas project called Project Yesu! Help us spread the word and reach her goals!
[youtube]ouFqJLU0jGE[/youtube]

"Be the change you want to see in the world" - Mahatma Ghandi

For more information:

The Source:

http://www.projectyesu.org/

MJ TinkerBell :heart:ray::heart:

MJ TinkerBell · Dec 8, 2012

[youtube]vKJVmVHk1ys[/youtube]

A video that exhibits the "true sportsmanship" of a 12-year-old boy and his plucky wrestling opponent has gone viral on Facebook.

The clip, which features seventh grade wrestlers Justin Kievit and Jared Stevens, has racked up more than 87,000 shares since Justin's dad posted it on Facebook less than a week ago.

Craig Kievit Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=4081660048180

97 Rock Online explains:

Over the weekend a young wrestler from a Middle School in Tennessee did something that a lot of kids his age would not think about doing. He intentionally lost a match, but unintentionally won the hearts of anyone that watches his actions in the video.
“I think a lot of people are scared to put kids like me on the mat, but they don’t need to be,” Jared, a boy with cerebral palsy," told Franklin Home Page on Monday. His match with Justin had been his first.

Jared's father told the Tennesean that though his son has the physical capacity of a 6-month-old, his intellectual ability is close to his age level. Socially, his dad adds, Jared "hits it out of the park."

“Jared just likes to do stuff like everybody else," he told the Franklin Home Page. "There's a limit to what he can do, but something like wrestling, he can do that as much as he can do. He just enjoys being out there participating. He doesn't mind trying anything."

Clay Mayes, Jared's wrestling coach, said that the 13-year-old practices with his school's wrestling team every day.

When Jared expressed that he wanted to participate in a wrestling match, Mayes said he
called his friend Randy Stevens (no relation), a coach at another middle school.

“It wasn’t about weight class,” Mayes told the Tennessean. “I told him to point me toward the kid who has the kindest heart.”

And that's how Justin Kievit got involved. In the clip, Justin can be seen shaking hands with Jared, before helping his opponent put an arm around him -- "pinning" him and therefore, winning.

“The first time he met Jared was when he shook hands with him before the match. So it really was spontaneous. They just picked this kid. If you watch the video, he just did an amazing job. There's not many adults comfortable putting hands on a disabled kid, much less another [7th grader],” Jared's dad said of his son's wrestling opponent.

Many people who have watched the video said that they were deeply touched by both the sportsmanship and bravery shown by the two young boys.

"Love it!! Love the spirit of both boys!!! Both my boys wrestle now... Can't wait to share this with them and their team," one Facebook user wrote.

"This has truly warmed my heart... thanks for sharing, what a wonderful act of kindness," another said.

The Source:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/...rtwarming-video-cerebral-palsy_n_2237480.html

ray::heart:

ray:

MJ TinkerBell · Jan 17, 2013

Prince Harry talks to HALO deminers during a 2-day visit to HALO minefields in Tete Province, Mozambique, 21 June 2010.
© Fiona Willoughby/HALO Trust/PA Wire/Press Association Images

ABOUT US

HALO is the world's oldest and largest humanitarian landmine clearance organisation. For more than two decades, we have set the standard for the sector through technical innovation and robust management.

Making villages landmine-free in Sri Lanka. After the end of the Sri Lanka civil war in 2009, landmine casualties rose significantly as people displaced during the conflict began to return home.

In response, the HALO Trust led a massive landmine clearance programme, which has seen over 100,000 landmines destroyed, allowing 190,000 people to return home safely.

HALO arrived at a plan to help tackle the mines problem in Sri Lanka by drawing on its 24 years of experience of mine clearance across the world, often post-conflict.

The charity’s team of five experienced expatriates hired and trained over 1,000 local staff, including 700 recent returnees and 250 women, to conduct mine clearance in their own communities.

Investing in local leadership keeps the mine-affected communities integral to the process and provides employment in areas where there are few opportunities. Some 25 per cent of HALO’s staff are female, many of whom have become heads of households after losing their husbands during the war.

By the end of 2011, HALO had cleared just over two million square metres of minefield, more in one year than had been cleared between 2002 and 2009.

Its work has allowed once-abandoned villages to thrive again. In the village of Skandapuram, Edward Lemon Kajenthiran, who was forced to abandon his shop in 2008, has been able to open a new salon after all landmines were cleared.

More than four million square metres of mined land have been painstakingly cleared by HALO deminers over the past nine years, including land now used for school playgrounds, medical facilities, paddy fields, roads, houses and gardens, temples and fishing jetties.

HALO's co-founders Guy Willoughby and Colin Mitchell in Cambodia in 1991

HISTORY OF THE HALO TRUST

The HALO Trust became a formal legal entity on 9 March 1988, however the concept of providing civilian mineclearance as an act of humanity was developed by HALO’s founders over the two years running up to 1988.

Guy Willoughby and Colin Mitchell were seeing the impact of landmines in both the Horn of Africa and Afghanistan. In the former, the provision of humanitarian relief supplies was badly hampered by anti-tank mines on roads, while in Afghanistan thousands of civilians were becoming victims of anti-personnel mines. The rising number of casualties treated by the International Red Cross hospital in the Pakistan city of Peshawar gave an indication of the threat that mines would present to the eventual large scale return of Afghan refugees.

On the 14 April 1988 The Geneva Accord was signed between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with the Soviet Union and the USA acting as guarantors. A month later on 15th May 1988 the Soviet Forces started their withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the same week Guy Willoughby set up HALO in Kabul. Twenty-four years later, and without interruption despite political regime changes, HALO in Afghanistan has grown to over 3,600 staff – and has cleared over 700,000 mines from minefields and stockpiles, and ten million items of ordnance.

HALO’s second programme started in Cambodia in 1991, when HALO was asked by UNHCR to conduct a mines survey ahead of the planned repatriation of over 600,000 refugees from the Thai border camps. As with Afghanistan, this programme quickly developed into full mineclearance, and 21 years later HALO has over 1,100 demining staff and has cleared well over 200,000 mines from across the north-west provinces.

In 1993 HALO started in Mozambique, again with an initial survey for UNDP of the country-wide impact of landmines, particularly on roads. By 2007 HALO had cleared over 100,000 landmines and every known mined area from the four provinces north of the Zambezi, and then moved to the south and central provinces, where HALO currently works with 374 staff.

HALO’s Angola programme started in 1994, and has concentrated on the Plan Alto provinces and its rail corridor – from Benguela, through Huambo, Bie and across to Cuando Cubango province, and now down to Huila. The programme is similar in size to Cambodia, with up to 1,200 staff working across the provinces, including weapons and ammunition disposal. HALO has cleared over 68,000 mines from 570 sites.

HALO’s programmes in the Caucasus started in 1995 and 1996 – in Nagorno Karabakh, Georgia/Abkhazia and Chechnya. The Karabakh project was run with a limited timeframe of 18 months, to see if a Local Capacity could be set up, equipped, trained and then left to run on its own with no external financial or technical support. By Year 2000 the Stepanakert authorities invited HALO to return, and in the last 12 years we have run a regular programme, employing 250 full time staff, and clearing over 10,000 landmines.

The programme in Abkhazia is nearing completion with the clearance of over 9,500 mines and 46,000 items of unexploded ordnance, while the Georgia programme concentrated on the clearance of cluster bomblets from the short conflict in 2008, and the clearance of landmines around former Soviet military bases from the 1990s.

HALO’s programme in Somaliland started in 1999, and 13 years later nearly 500 staff are employed full time. These deminers have cleared over 80,000 explosive items from 17,500 hectares.

The same year we conducted an emergency survey in Kosovo, and then commenced clearance employing over 400 staff. Work continues today, clearing cluster bomblet strikes and also minefields.

In 2000-2001 we surveyed Ethiopia and Eritrea, and followed up with 480 deminers working in Eritrea.

Our Sri Lanka programme started in 2002, expanded to over 500 staff, then reduced at the height of the army offensive against the LTTE in 2008, but is now back to almost 1,000 strong, working across Jaffna and the Vanni on behalf of the returning displaced families.

HALO Colombia started in 2009, with formal registration in Bogota and a Memorandum of Understanding with the government to survey areas where the conflict has finished.

Over the last 24 years we also conducted assessment missions into other mine-impacted countries, such as Bosnia, Croatia, Lebanon, Vietnam, Laos, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Burundi and Tajikistan.

HALO’s Weapons & Ammunition Disposals (WAD) teams are working in Afghanistan, Angola, Cambodia, Mozambique and Somaliland.

The HALO Trust’s global HQ is in a converted stable block in South West Scotland.

Australian ABC news story which summarises what HALO does in Sri Lanka.
http://www.abc.net.au/lateline/content/2012/s3474480.htm

Valon Kumnova
Desk officer, Horn of Africa & Sri Lanka

The HALO Trust
Carronfoot, Thornhill,
Dumfries DG3 5BF
Tel: 01843 311 100
admin@halotrust.org

OSCR reg no: SCO37870 / Charity no: 1001813

The Source:
http://www.halotrust.org/

ray::heart: Make That Change :heart:ray:

MJ TinkerBell · Feb 7, 2013

Former Cop Cuddles, Brings Comfort to Sick Babies
By Mary Harris| Wednesday, Jan 30, 2013 |

Ex-cop is part of a group of volunteer "cuddlers" who hold and rock sick babies to help the infants heal faster.

For nearly three decades, John Hauck worked for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. He worked patrol, investigations and narcotics; and spent his share of time with suspects and criminals.

Now, he spends his time holding and rocking sick babies.

"Babies are good people," John said. "In the Sheriff’s Department, we didn’t always deal with good people."

John is one of a growing team of volunteer "cuddlers" at Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach.

He looks down at the tiny swaddled being resting in his arms, and melts into a smile. "Look at that little face," he said. "That’ll break your heart won’t it?"

John has no children of his own. He assumed babies were born and a few days later, mom and baby go home. But that is not always the case.

On any given day, Miller Children’s Hospital will have between 50 and 96 infants in their Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The day NBC4 visited, 78 babies were trying to get strong enough to go home.

"I don’t think a lot of people realize how tough these little guys have it," John said. "From the get go they are fighting for their lives."

Nikki Conkings is also a volunteer cuddler, and she understands first-hand the anguish of leaving a newborn in the NICU. Her son was born at Miller Children’s Hospital 34 years ago, and spent three weeks in the NICU.

"It’s horrible – horrible not to have your baby home with you," she said.

Now she volunteers as a way of giving back to nurses who took such good care of her little boy. Nikki thinks the cuddlers bring a needed sense of calm to an environment and experience that can be very stressful for parents.

"We are in that calm place," she said. "We are rocking, singing. It transfers. It relaxes them. That’s our job to get them calmed down and relaxed and that helps them to heal."

Nursing staff at the hospital said the cuddlers "pinch hit" for parents. Because as much as parents want to be at the hospital with a sick newborn, it is not realistic. They may have other children at home. Some babies will spend months in the NICU and parents may have to return to work. Sometimes the time may be just brief enough to grab a shower and a sandwich.

Volunteer "cuddlers" hold sick babies at Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach to help them heal faster and regain their trust of touch.

[youtube]KDFA4AGWjXo[/youtube]

After talking to Melinda Manlove, whose twins have been in the NICU for several weeks, it is clear that these cuddlers also bring comfort to moms. She wells up as she explains, "It’s amazing to know that I don’t have to worry that they are going to cry long ‘cause someone will be there to pick them up and love them when I am not here."

The program at Miller Children’s Hospital was started in 2004 by two veteran NICU nurses. Kate Daeley said simply that touch is "medicine." Mary Chinchilla adds, "Science is proving what Mother Nature has always known that babies need to be held."

Studies now show that being held can improve a baby’s body temperature, blood pressure, and weight and brain development. Daeley has seen evidence of this over and over again.

"They are going home healthier because they are being held," she said.

And there is another important reaction to being held. Chinchilla said premature babies need significant medical attention, and that means needles and tubes, poking and prodding. As a result, "they learn to distrust human touch and they get afraid."

She believes the cuddlers help these children understand that touch can also be nurturing. "It’s a gift," she said.

Volunteers will hold a baby from 45 minutes to four hours at a time. It is not a surprise that sharing such an intense experience creates a bond between the cuddlers and families.

Vicki Edwards said she "feels for the sick kids." She never had children of her own, and this kind of volunteer work has long been on her "bucket list."

Vicki was the "primary cuddler" for Derrick Cervantes for the six months he was in the NICU. During that time, the little boy had five surgeries. She said having the consistency was helpful because she knew how he liked to be held and how to avoid the areas that were sensitive because of his operations.

Vicki beams when she talks about Derrick. During that time, they came to know each other. She said they would "have conversations, and we would sing and play patty-cake." She sums it up with a sentimental smile saying, "Just love him."

Derrick’s mom, Ashley Cervantes said, "Derrick just fell in love with her, and so did we."

In the ten months since Derrick was released from the NICU, he has had to return to the hospital for four more procedures. With each visit, Vicki was there. Ashley saw the impact Vicki had on Derrick.

"He would feel the love. He knew there wasn’t going to be any pain from this person," she said. "He was so comfortable and peaceful. To see him comfortable made me comfortable."

Not too long ago, Vicki attended Derrick’s baptism, and she plans on being a part of his life.
Today Derrick is a smiling, toddling toddler. His mom said the connection between Derrick and Vicki is evident. "He lights up when he sees her still," she said.

Touch is the most fundamental way to connect with another person. And while Derrick may never remember those long days in the NICU, Vicki will never forget.

"He’s my heart," she said. "I love that child. He will always be a part of me."

The "Newborn Cuddler" Campaigns..

Volunteer "cuddlers" hold sick babies at Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach to help them heal faster and regain their trust of touch.

[youtube]KDFA4AGWjXo[/youtube]

Nashville, Tennessee, at Vanderbilt Medical Center, a group of people willingly reaches out to those crying babies - soothing little ones they don't even know.

[youtube]zxOah4xpmx8[/youtube]
Aspirus has volunteers who hold and interact with newborns to aid in emotional and physical development.

[youtube]O-O7TL4FqH8[/youtube]
Healthparks volunteer Cuddler program. These special care-givers contribute to the quality of life for premature and ill babies as well as their families.

[youtube]pSmNhlCqt70[/youtube]
Volunteers in L.A. step in to provide some TLC to babies in the neonatal intensive care unit.

[youtube]P9o1Y8NO2uI[/youtube]
NICU Volunteer Cuddlers Featured on KMTR News

The Source:
http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video/...er-Cuddlers-Hold--Rock-Sick-Infants/189135661

For information on how to volunteer with or donate to the cuddlers program above or in your community.

[youtube]4nbjIjAvJgw[/youtube]

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video/...er-Cuddlers-Hold,-Rock-Sick-Infants/189135661

http://www.facebook.com/MillerChildrensHospital

NICUcuddlers@memorialcare.org

MJ TinkerBell · Apr 1, 2013

The Blog Article:

Popstar Amelia Lily urges young people to stand up to bullying..March 21st, 2013

We’re excited to let you know that we’ve teamed up with Amelia Lily to launch a ‘Find Your Voice’ competition for creative young people across the UK.

The competition invites budding poets and songwriters to pen a short piece based on the subject of beating bullying, or finding your voice. The winning entry will be produced as a song performed by Amelia Lily, with the winner also given the chance to meet the star.

The competition is the latest element of our partnership with ‘make mine Milk’. We’re hoping it will encourage many young people to speak out about their experience of bullying. It’s always hugely inspiring to hear from creative young people who are passionate about beating bullying, so we’re looking forward to listening to the entries and hearing the winning track.

Check out the video about the competition:
[youtube]7iU2na8FeGA&feature=share&list=UUW_k--d3PhbwmYD_8t6l6ZA[/youtube]

The closing date for the ‘Find Your Voice’ competition is 12pm on Thursday 18 April 2013. Young people can enter by visiting www.facebook.com/makeminemilk for more info, or by emailing findyourvoice@makeminemilk.co.uk.

MindFull Mentor Training in London

[youtube]Xgr1ePb8gq0[/youtube]

Are you 11-17? Are you passionate about mental health and emotional wellbeing? Do you want to make a difference to other young people's lives - and learn loads of skills in the process? If the answer is yes, yes YES, then MindFull needs you!

MindFull is a brilliant new service aiming to completely change the way young people get advice about their mental health and emotional wellbeing. And we're looking to train young people like you to become MindFull Mentors.

When - Friday 5th April 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where - Google HQ in London!
How to get involved - register your interest by completing the form MindFull Registration Form
Being a MindFull Mentor is a great way to help people who need someone their own age to talk to, learn more about mental health and emotional wellbeing - both your own and in general - and develop lifelong skills like listening and communication.

Join us and help change the world!

[youtube]aWCo7sE7bbU[/youtube]

New Research Reveals Only A Third Of Those Suffering Online Abuse Are Currently Reporting It To Social Networks !

According to a new survey of teens for knowthenet.org.uk, 2 in 3 teens have experienced trolling or online bullying, but hardly any would turn to parents (17%) or teachers (1%) for support as their first reaction.

60% of teens also said they had never reported the problem to the relevant social media website. Teens don’t believe reporting abuse makes any difference; over a third of those deciding not to report the incident said it was because they felt like no action would be taken.

Emma-Jane Cross, CEO and founder of BeatBullying commented: "Bullying both on and offline continues to be a serious problem for a huge number of teenagers and we cannot ignore its often devastating and tragic effects. We work with hundreds of young people being cyber-bullied or trolled so badly that it can lead to depression, truancy, self-harm, or even force them to contemplate or attempt suicide. What’s also concerning is that many young people could be suffering in silence.”

Remember – if you’re under 18 and you are being bullied, speak to one of our BeatBullying Mentors today to get support.

The Sources:

The Beat Bullying Blog
http://www.beatbullying.org/index.html

Beat Bullying Youtube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/Beatbullying

The ‘Find Your Voice’ Competition:
www.facebook.com/makeminemilk

MindFull Mentor Training in London Registration Form:
https://docs.google.com/a/thebbgrou...rm?formkey=dGFFclZMcTdoYm8tVGx0eXp0QzVNcXc6MQ

MIST · Apr 6, 2013

UNICEF Tasks New York City Students with Solving Pressing Challenges to Child Survival

NEW YORK (March 12, 2013) – The City University of New York (CUNY) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are pleased to announce the launch of the 2013 “Design for UNICEF” Challenge.

The largest innovation for development contest to-date, the Challenge is open to CUNY’s 270,000 students, who will use their diverse skills to design innovative solutions to improve child survival globally. To be chosen by a panel of expert judges in September 2013, the top three teams will have the opportunity to travel to a developing country to test their project with UNICEF.

Globally, 6.9 million children die every year from causes that could be largely prevented with basic health care, adequate nutrition, clean water, sanitation, and education. Participating CUNY students are tasked with devising creative solutions to specific problems associated with the top killers of children worldwide—pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria, and complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Their projects will contribute to A Promise Renewed, a global movement of individuals, civil society organizations, governments, private corporations, and UN agencies taking action to accelerate the decline of preventable child deaths.

UNICEF has consistently placed innovation at the center of its work. From pioneering the use of radio for social mobilization in the 1980s, to the use of the RapidSMS system to instantly deliver healthcare information and results to community health workers, new and innovative technology has played a critical role in UNICEF’s child survival and development programs. Designed recently by a team of graduate students from New York University, Rapid Family Tracing and Reunification (RapidFTR)—a mobile application that helps aid workers collect, sort, and share information about children in crisis situations—has been deployed in South Sudan, among other emergency contexts.

CUNY is the nation’s leading urban public university. The university is located in New York and has more than a quarter million students from over 200 countries enrolled in degree granting programs. With top faculty in 24 colleges and schools, more than 1,400 academic programs, and 230 majors, CUNY supports cutting-edge research in a wide variety of fields, including environmental and health sciences, energy, computer science, and pure and applied sciences.

The Challenge will be open to teams of CUNY students across disciplines and will afford the opportunity for students to connect to global experts in development, academia, and the private sector, while gaining experience in proposal writing, open-source project design, and testing.

http://www.unicefusa.org/news/relea...news_040513&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=usf

MJ TinkerBell · Jun 1, 2013

The Blog Article:

Krochet Kids international

OUR MISSION

MISSION
To empower people to rise above poverty.

VISION
To create sustainable economic development programs that support holistic growth of individuals and communities within developing nations.

To inspire the knowledge of a generation about their ability to bring change to a world that is in need.

VALUES
People: We desire holistic freedom for our people to grow and enrich their lives physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Our Product: We believe in quality, handmade products that not only bring comfort and style but serve as a vehicle for social change.

Love: We believe actions rooted in love bring lasting and powerful change. Our model for love is that of the ultimate servant: Jesus.

OUR MODEL

Through a unique model we are empowering the women of Northern Uganda and Peru with the assets, skills, and knowledge to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. The result is long lasting and sustainable change.

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

We provide a job so that women can meet the present needs of their families.

We educate them so that they develop beyond the need for outside aid.

We provide mentorship to help each lady plan a unique and sustainable career path for the future.

The Sources:

Krochet Kids international Website
http://www.krochetkids.org/who-we-are/our-mission/

Lark · Jun 4, 2013

Janet helping to fight hunger in Africa, article and video here:

http://www.janetjackson.com/story/n...voice-to-help-kids-in-west-and-central-africa

NEW YORK (June 3, 2013) – Janet Jackson, GRAMMY® Award-winning and Oscar® nominated artist, entertainer and actor is lending her talent and powerful voice to support UNICEF in providing humanitarian assistance in the Sahel region of West and Central Africa, where 1.4 million children are at risk of severe malnutrition, a potentially deadly condition if left untreated.

Janet Jackson Lifts Her Voice to Help Kids in West and Central Africa
06/03/13 By UNICEF

“It’s unacceptable for children to die from hunger in the 21st century,” says Jackson
Janet Jackson Lifts Her Voice to Help Kids in West and Central Africa

NEW YORK (June 3, 2013) – Janet Jackson, GRAMMY® Award-winning and Oscar® nominated artist, entertainer and actor is lending her talent and powerful voice to support UNICEF in providing humanitarian assistance in the Sahel region of West and Central Africa, where 1.4 million children are at risk of severe malnutrition, a potentially deadly condition if left untreated.
Janet Jackson Lifts Her Voice to Help Kids in West and Central Africa

“We are all facing a silent emergency. So many children are at risk of losing their lives in the Sahel region of Africa because they don’t have food to eat,” said Jackson. “We must act now to save and protect children at risk from malnutrition—not just in emergencies —but for today and forever. I commit my heart, my love, and my resources to this effort. With your help and the leadership of UNICEF, we will bring change to West and Central Africa.”

Jackson will be appearing in a Public Service Announcement and take to Twitter and Facebook with a message that children in the hard-hit Sahel region and across the globe can—and must—have access to proper food and other basic necessities to save and improve their lives. UNICEF has appealed for $248 million for this year to address the needs of children affected by chronic drought, rising food prices, and conflict in the semi-arid Sahel, a belt of land south of the Sahara desert. To view the PSA, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_Za7EM6hd8

UNICEF’s response in the area focuses on providing immediate support to the most vulnerable children, including life-saving therapeutic food, basic health services, and clean water to help safeguard against infectious diseases and diarrhea. Last year, 800,000 children’s lives were saved from severe malnutrition in the Sahel. It was the largest intervention of its kind in the history of the region, which encompasses the countries of Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Cameroon, The Gambia, Nigeria and Senegal. Globally, under-nutrition contributes to more than a third of deaths among children under the age of five. The physical and cognitive damage caused by not receiving enough of the right type of nutrients, especially in the first two years of life, is permanent. Lifelong physical and mental effects can include stunting, blindness, weakened immune systems, mental retardation, and other disabilities. While the damage cannot be treated, it can be prevented by providing expectant mothers, newborns and very young children with nutrients such as proteins, fat, and vitamins; and minerals such as vitamin A, iron, and zinc.

“We must reject a world where children continue to die from hunger, in the 21st century, when we know that we have the resources to ensure that all children receive the right nutrition,” said Jackson. “I believe in a world where there are ZERO children dying of malnutrition and other preventable causes. That is why I will raise awareness and support for the lifesaving solutions that are available, and my promise to all children is to make sure that people around the world are listening and participating in the change that must happen. UNICEF is the best possible partner for this change. It is powerful to join them in this program.”

Janet Jackson is a leading advocate in HIV/AIDS research and serves as an ambassador for amfAR. She is an iconic figure in popular culture. A six-time GRAMMY winner who has sold more than 100 million records, Jackson is one of the best-selling artists in the history of music. She is known for a series of innovative and socially conscious records, intricate choreography, as well as roles in television and films. She is an award winning writer, including her number one New York Times best selling book, “True You,” which reveals her private struggles with nutrition and self-esteem. “I understand what it means to starve intentionally. I understand what it means to eat obsessively. My battles with weight and self-esteem are so personal and yet the media has made them very public. I feel called upon to bring food and love to children who don’t have any,” said Jackson.

How to help:
For more information on the crisis in the Sahel or to make a tax-deductible contribution to UNICEF’s relief efforts, please contact the U.S. Fund for UNICEF: Website: www.unicefusa.org/sahel
Toll free: 1-800-FOR-KIDS
Mail: 125 Maiden Lane, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10038 
As with any emergency, in the event that donations exceed anticipated needs, USF will redirect any excess funds to children in greatest need.

About UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to save and improve children’s lives, providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF’s work through fundraising, advocacy, and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when zero children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_Za7EM6hd8

MIST · Jun 23, 2013

BREAKING: SeaWorld Orca Dies in Spain
After demonstrating ‘strange behaviors’ in the days prior, a 10-month-old whale passes away.
http://www.takepart.com/article/201...-spain?cmpid=tpanimals-eml-2013-06-21-turtles
June 16, 2013
David Kirby
An infant female orca by the name of Vicky has died at the Loro Parque amusement park in the Canary Islands, park officials announced today on its Facebook page.

Vicky, just 10 months old, had been rejected by her mother Kohana, a young orca who was ripped from her own mother’s side at just 19 months of age and eventually shipped off to Tenerife.

“In contrast with joy with which Loro Parque announced the birth of the second baby orca in Spain, last August 3rd, today with enormous regret we inform you of the sad demise of Vicky, who with so much emotion and affection, the team of OrcaOcean cared for in her 10 months of life,” Loro Parque’s Facebook page says.

The death was sudden and the cause unknown, though Vicky had been showing unusual behaviors in recent days, according to the post. It was serious enough to fly in SeaWorld’s chief veterinarian to perform an examination.

The orcas at Loro Parque all belong to SeaWorld, and are cared for and trained according to SeaWorld protocols. In 2006, the company flew four young whales—two females, Kohana and Skyla, and two males, Keto and Tekoa—to Spain on a “breeding loan.”

About two years later Kohana, at just six years of age, (extremely young for an orca) was impregnated and, in 2010, gave birth to a male calf named Adan. All orcas born at Loro Parque are the legal property of SeaWorld.

Kohana, however, was an utterly unfit mother, and she wanted nothing to do with Adan, rejecting him almost immediately.

Many critics speculated that Kohana had simply never learned how to be a mother, because there were no mother orcas at Loro Parque for her to emulate. It didn’t help matters that Kohana only spent 19 months with her own mother before being taken a

Even as Adan was being hand-nursed by park staff, Kohana became pregnant again, this time with Vicky. The father in both pregnancies was Keto, who is Kohana’s uncle, making Adan and Vicky more inbred orcas to add to SeaWorld’s “collection.” One whale at a SeaWorld park was impregnated by her own son. According to bloodline charts, Vicky was related to 21 out of 26 SeaWorld killer whales.

Last year, when Vicky was born, Kohana again immediately rejected her calf. The double-tragedy was covered beautifully by Elizabeth Batt at Digital Journal.

I have been studying killer whale issues intensively for about three years, and have never heard of a mother rejecting her calf in the wild. It is hard to imagine. But in my book Death at SeaWorld, I document several cases of maternal rejection in captivity.

TakePart has written about Loro Parque in the past, including this article about the female orca Morgan who, after stranding in the Netherlands, was sent to Tenerife and is now listed on SeaWorld’s stock offering as belonging to them.

And last December, in another piece, TakePart reported that, “Advocates were aghast at the trans-Atlantic arrangement. Killer whales, whether in the ocean or a crowded pool, are highly socialized animals who learn from elders about proper norms of behavior. Mothers, grandmothers and older siblings keep youngsters in check, and extinguish outbursts of disharmony that disrupt cohesion and proper pod functioning.”

“These whales are so young, without a normal upbringing, and now they’re in Spain together without any sort of adult orca supervision,’ one observer said. ‘It’s like Lord of the Flies over there.’”

It’s not clear if Kohana’s rejection of Vicky, or her inbreeding, contributed to her death (50 percent of wild-born orcas do not survive their first year). But it’s just another sad mark on the history and reputation of Loro Parque.

As I wrote in my book, at least one trainer was deeply concerned about the whales, and the way that Kohana’s uncle, Keto, kept trying to breed with her.

The trainer, Alex Martinez, turned to his personal diary to describe his growing worries about the erratic behavior. The whales’ seemingly bottomless sex drives were on the verge of upending the fragile social order imposed upon the hormonally charged adolescents.

“Keto is obsessed with controlling Kohana, he won’t separate from her, including shows,” Martinez wrote. Tekoa was also “very sexual when he is alone with Kohana.”

A few months later, Keto would “go off behavior” and brutally ram Martinez in the chest, killing him. Just two months after that, Dawn Brancheau would be mortally wounded in a similar fashion at SeaWorld Florida by the three-time killer Tilikum, who happens to be grandfather to Kohana and great-grandfather to her two hapless children, one of them now tragically gone.

6 Ways You Can Help Save Captive Killer Whales Right Now.If you’ve ever wondered what one person can do for caged orcas, this is for you.

http://www.takepart.com/photos/6-ways-rescue-killer-whales-captive#

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YTFeHjAA0q0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTFeHjAA0q0

Don´t buy tickets,educate yourself,tell the media,lobby your goverment
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8OEjYquyjcg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OEjYquyjcg

There are no reports orcas are doing any harm in the wild...why punish them?

MJ TinkerBell · Jun 24, 2013

:heart: :sad: ray: Heartbreaking ray: thanks for sharing this MIST :heart: :sad: ray:

MJ*PP · Jun 24, 2013

Thats such a heartless thing to do

i just dont understand why

MIST · Jun 24, 2013

It´s the same with gorillas, orangutangs, chimpanzees, big cats etc,babies are taken and their family or part of their family are killed.

windy09 · Jul 20, 2013

It is very sad to hear about the Orcas and other animals. These are the type of stories that need to be shared more so people know what is going on I know they are already out there, but as part of make that change, we can share with many more people.

MIST · Jul 20, 2013

The animals' home, Garold Wayne Interactive Zoological Park in the rural town of Wynnewood in central Oklahoma, has been investigated multiple times by animal rights groups and U.S. agencies.

In 2011, a spokesman for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) told Reuters that the zoo was under scrutiny for the deaths of 23 tiger cubs. In a video on the zoo's website, zoo owner Joe Schreibvogel said the deaths occurred during an 18-month period in 2009 and 2010, and claimed the cubs died from "bad KMR" (kitten milk replacement) made by pet food manufacturer PetAg.

Garold Wayne Interactive was also the subject of a 2011 undercover investigation by the Humane Society, after which the investigator said five tigers perished during the four months he worked there. He also obtained footage of sick and lethargic tigers, and of tigers being whipped and hit by staffers at the encouragement of park management.

What's more, Shreibvogel's zoo was fined $25,000 by the USDA's Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service in 2006 for a host of violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act, including failing to maintain clean and safe premises for the animals, failing to establish and maintain adequate veterinary care, failing to keep animals' food protected from mold and contamination by vermin and failing to minimize risk of harm to animals during public exhibitions, according to USDA documents. Those violations resulted in the temporary loss of the zoo's license and an 18-month period of probation.

The zoo eventually got its license back after complying with regulations outlined by the USDA.

In his video response to the case, Schreibvogel denied that he or his staff abused animals.

The same year as the Animal Welfare Act violations, an undercover PETA investigation released a report stating that animals living at the zoo had gone hungry from lack of food and had been abused and beaten by staff. PETA also said it had witnessed incompatible animals attack and harass one another.

Schreibvogel declared in another video response that PETA's report had been "doctored."

Zoo spokesman Daniel Cotton told The Huffington Post by phone that the facility cares for more than 1,000 animals, including Siberian tigers, grizzly bears, white lions and even an 800-pound alligator once owned by Michael Jackson. The zoo's stated mission is to give homes to abandoned, misplaced and abused animals. On its website, it claims to have rescued more than 1,400 animals and to have placed more than 1,200 in zoos and sanctuaries around the world.

Cotton also said that the massive, EF-5 tornado that ravaged the nearby city of Moore on Monday caused about $18,000 in damage to the zoo, but that no animals were hurt by the tornado.

(Hat tip, HyperVocal)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/24/dog-lion-dentist-video-_n_3332658.html

I wonder if Michael´s alligator is abused too.
I saw a video a lioness had lost a leg when she had to live together with 2 tigers.
I´m not sure if they called a veterinarian or if she made it on her own.
Maybe that was PETAs video.
I´m not sure if they had for example babybears and baby chimps

Code:

Today at Big Cat Rescue Feb 9 2013 Big Cat Rescue Wins
Legal victory against tiger cub exploiter!

Many of you have followed our two year long legal battle against Joe Schreibvogel and GW Exotic Memorial Animal Park. Schreibvogel constantly breeds tiger cubs to use to make money by charging people to pet or take photos with them, both at his park and on a “road show” that exhibits at malls and fairs. As part of our increasing focus on advocacy work, we have contacted these venues to educate them about why we believe this was mistreatment of the animals and why it was also bad business because it offended the many people who love animals and oppose this exploitation.

 

Among his many other unprofessional responses and attacks on Big Cat Rescue and Carole personally, in 2010 Schreibvogel decided to use the name Big Cat Rescue Entertainment for his traveling exhibit. He created a logo where the words Big Cat Rescue looked very much like our logo, and even starting using a phone number with our area code, to create confusion and damage our reputation by having people think we were doing cub petting.

 

We filed suit in federal court in January 2011 to stop him. As we expected, he counter sued, claiming that in our statements to the venues about him and cub petting we had slandered and libeled him and tortiously interfered with his business relationships.

 

Separately, he repeatedly used photos we own in violation of our copyright ownership and mischaracterized them. So we filed two lawsuits to stop him from doing that.

 

The trial for the trademark case was to begin Monday, and the trial for the first copyright case was to begin two weeks later.

 

Last August we filed a Motion for Summary Judgment asking the judge to throw out his counterclaims. This past Thursday(2/7/13)  the judge ruled in our favor. To paraphrase the legal language of part of her ruling, she concluded that our statements to the malls and to our supporters about Schreibvogel met the legal requirements for being “privileged,” in part because they were made in good faith and with a good motive, and therefore could not be considered slander or libel.

 

Now with no upside in the lawsuit once his counterclaims were pronounced invalid, rather than face us in two trials where he had nothing to gain and a lot to lose, yesterday Schreibvogel agreed to a Consent Final Judgment under which we were awarded damages and legal fees totaling a little over $1 million dollars.

How this plays out in terms of collecting the judgment remains to be seen. There are some scenarios in which this may turn out to be a benefit to the animals at his park, but it is not appropriate to publicly speculate about those at this point, we can only see what happens. In the meantime, this is a huge victory against a man we have viewed as one of the most notorious exploiters of exotic animals who continually adds to the problem by his incessant breeding and who bragged for two years about how he was going to win millions from us through his invalid claims of slander and libel.

 

As important as this legal victory is, it is secondary by far to the victory won by our followers on Facebook and those who sign up as Advocats on our website who responded to our requests over the last few years to email and call the venues who host such exploitative displays by Schreibvogel and other exhibitors to show the venues that a large, growing number of the consumers they want as customers love animals and view such exploitation of animals as inhumane, and that hosting such exhibits hurt their image with those consumers. Owners of hundreds of venues have been educated through your efforts and agreed not to have such displays. This has saved many, many tiny tiger cubs from the misery of being carted around and tormented in these displays.

 

Our attorney Frank Jakes at the Johnson, Pope law firm is our hero for the outstanding work he and his associates did for us in handling this lawsuit.

 

YOU are the heroes who have saved so many cubs from the misery of these traveling exhibits. We have made tremendous progress on stopping this abuse, and with your critical continued help we plan to eliminate it altogether. Thanks so much for standing with us in this battle that we are winning together!

[url]http://bigcatrescue.org/today-at-big-cat-rescue-feb-9-2013-big-cat-rescue-wins/[/url]

I saw pictures of two lions in a zoo I think it was in China, people threw snowballs at them

MJ TinkerBell · Jul 21, 2013

[youtube]vUp4fyzGQIc[/youtube]

In Our Small Way ~ Michael's Message Since Childhood

Maybe you and I can't do great things
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change some things today
In our small way

Empty words are not enough
Where there's hurt we'll be a crush
When there's thirst we'll fill each other's cup
Because we care we love enough to share

Maybe you and I can't do great things
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change some things today
In our small way

In despair we'll be the hope
And the prayer that frees the soul
We'll be there to share each lonely road
Because we love, I know
We care enough

Maybe you and I can't do great things
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change some things today
In our small way

Just a little time is all it takes
What a difference just a smile can make, you'll see
Love is all we need

Maybe you and I can't do great things
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change some things today
In our small way

Make That Change TODAY :heart::group:

MJ TinkerBell · Jul 24, 2013

The Blog Article:

The Starfish Story
By City Year

A young girl was walking along a beach upon which thousands of starfish had been washed up during a terrible storm. When she came to each starfish, she would pick it up, and throw it back into the ocean. People watched her with amusement.

She had been doing this for some time when a man approached her and said, “Little girl, why are you doing this? Look at this beach! You can’t save all these starfish. You can’t begin to make a difference!”

The girl seemed crushed, suddenly deflated. But after a few moments, she bent down, picked up another starfish, and hurled it as far as she could into the ocean. Then she looked up at the man and replied,

“Well, I made a difference to that one!”

The old man looked at the girl inquisitively and thought about what she had done and said. Inspired, he joined the little girl in throwing starfish back into the sea. Soon others joined, and all the starfish were saved. - adapted from the Star Thrower by Loren C. Eiseley

Perseverance against great odds and against the criticism of others is the very hallmark of value-based idealism, as is refusing to accept failure. The understanding that we hold in our hands the power to change a life, a mind, or a circumstance today – right now – is a powerful insight and motivator. At the same time, idealistic acts, even highly symbolic ones, have the power to inspire others to act, and sometimes in numbers significant enough to make a major or even complete impact on the problem at hand. Perhaps most inspiring of all is to witness the idealistic power of children and young people in action. The idealism of youth is a powerful force for leading change in the world. Often it is our youth who put into action values that we have instilled in them – but have failed to act on ourselves. The world, therefore, depends on the idealism of youth to lead the way.

"Each one of us can make a difference. Together we make change." --Barbara Mikulski

The Source:
http://www.ordinarypeoplechangetheworld.com/articles/the-starfish-story.aspx

Lark · Sep 2, 2013

So far this has 11,094 shares on Facebook. I didn't know what it was and of course just knew Michael would be so proud and happy to see this and have his music chosen for it :heart:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=451739988258058

MIST · Oct 29, 2013

Behind the scenes , whales are big money
http://youtu.be/D3fZ2dMdtu8

They don't care
They'd do me for the money
They don't care
They use me for the money

How many orcas dies when humans want to capture one

They don't care
They'd kill for the money

Keiko (Free Willy): 20 Years Later, History Proves His Release to Have Been the Right Decision Featuring fresh takes and real-time analysis from HuffPost's signature lineup of contributorsHot on the BlogBill MoyersRev. Al SharptonSen. Bernie SandersBill McKibben
Candace Calloway Whiting.Marine mammal biologist
GET UPDATES FROM Candace Calloway Whiting
Like. 26..Keiko (Free Willy): 20 Years Later, History Proves His Release to Have Been the Right Decision
Posted: 09/17/2013 5:44 pm Read more Free Willy, Killer Whales, Whale Rescue, Captivity, Keiko, Noaa, Orcas, Seaworld, Springer, Hawaii News .

930Share103Tweet10Email2CommentGet Hawaii Newsletters:
Subscribe .Twenty years ago the first captive orca to be successfully rehabilitated passed away in the wild, where he had lived for five years before succumbing to pneumonia. Like other semi-orphaned animals that are raised by humans, he remained engaged with people even though he was fully capable of living life on his own.

Nine years later, another orca was rehabilitated and released, she now lives wild with her young calf and her extended family in the ocean around British Columbia, Canada.

While the circumstances between the first whale, Keiko, and the second, Springer, were different, their stories are the same. Both were captured from the wild at very young ages, and both were eventually returned to live in the wild. Both required a huge commitment, public support, and funding. Both got it, and both got to live free. And both of their stories could have turned out very differently -- one faced certain death and the other faced a life in confinement.

After his starring role in the move Free Willy, Keiko was left to languish in a tiny pool in Mexico in such poor health that veterinarians predicted he would die within months, but he was purchased and moved to a place where his health was restored. When Springer turned up thin and lost near Seattle, Wash. the amusement parks offered to help -- SeaWorld in particular was eager to offer her a life in a tank, but Washington specifically forbids SeaWorld to capture wild orcas in state waters. She was given her freedom.

Having chosen to rehabilitate and release Springer, our government acknowledges that returning orcas to the wild is not only worthwhile, but can be the best option for them. In the teaching curriculum for elementary grades, "Saving Springer: How NOAA helped an orca go home", NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Agency) explains why rescuing and rehabilitating Springer was the best choice:

Discussion points -- why did NOAA make this decision?
• Chance of success outweighs risks

• Strong community support

• The right thing to do for this specific whale, and for the orca population

Keiko was 27 years old when he died -- in captivity male orcas seldom live past 20 -- and according to the Center for Whale Research's Stefan Jacobs, on average captive orcas survive less than nine years. He was never far from people who loved and cared for him -- according to the Human Society marine mammal expert, Dr. Naomi Rose "The Free Willy/Keiko Foundation and the U.S. Humane Society tracked Keiko in near-real-time with a satellite tag the entire trip across the Atlantic and knew where he was at all times. His caretaking team went to Norway and cared for him for the remaining 15 months of his life."

By any measurement, Keiko's release was a phenomenal success, and the process of giving him years of health and freedom is symbolic of what we cherish most in ourselves -- the ability to act with compassion and to right wrongs; when we know better, we do better.

And Springer -- she can be seen in the wild with her baby, living life as a normal whale. If that doesn't seem like reward enough, her contribution to the genetic pool can increase the viability of the population at a time when the resident orcas of the Pacific Northwest still struggle to recover from the devastation to their population by wild captures

Rehabilitating these whales is costly (please see the list below of contributor's to Springer's effort), but the money comes in from everywhere specifically for the animals -- it is not as though the money for Keiko and Springer was taken from a huge pot, or would have gone elsewhere. Kids gave up ice cream cones and sent their allowance, groups had bake sales and car washes, companies gave supplies, government agencies put their funds where they were supposed to, into protecting wildlife.

Considering the numbers of whales and dolphins that face extinction at our hands, rehabilitating and releasing these whales is the least we can do.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sgOsH2ZEbq8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/candace-calloway-whiting/keiko-free-willy_b_3942465.html

Make That Change!

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