With so many tragedies in East Asia lately its hard to donate your money anywhere else, but for those of you looking, I have a great suggestion. The organization is called the Central Asia Institue, and it was started by a wonderful man named Greg Mortenson. His story is told in the book Three Cups of Tea by David Relin, and it is absolutely incredible. I encourage all of you to read it, and if you feel it in your heart, donate a few dollars. It doesn't take very much to make a huge impact. It only costs $1 per month for one child's education in Pakistan, a penny to buy a pencil, and a teacher's salary averages $1 per day. I believe that approximately 55 schools have been built in the last ten years, all from donations. And one of the most incredible things is that this is the first time that girls have had a school to attend. Greg Mortenson and the CAI believe that improving communities begins with educating its women. Prior to 1999, 5-10 women per village died every year during childbirth. The first educated girl of her village in the Braldu Valley decided she wanted to do something about it, so she petitioned to the CAI for assistance to travel to the city and further her education. She became a midwife, and since her return to the Braldu in 1999, not one single woman has died from birthing complications. I think Greg's story is so amazing, and I know you will too.
www.ikat.org
www.threecupsoftea.com