Alrighty folks, I've mentioned in a few posts that I've wanted to volunteer down south to help in areas affected by Hurricane Katrina. Seven weeks later and peoples' interest in what happened and willingness to help has dwindled while there are so many locations that are still in need of much assistance. I almost had it worked out with an organization that would send me to help in Slidell, LA with almost all costs paid. I have been in contact with them and waiting for "the word" for a few weeks. Unfortunately, they are undergoing a director change which has made it nearly impossible to stay in contact and try to get this worked out.
I have decided to go with another organization that contacted me that said they are in
desperate need for volunteers. It is working with an animal rescue group right in the city of NO. I have decided to suck it up and instead of dorking around looking for another organization that can provide transportation, go help one in desperate need, even if it involves driving myself down there and sleeping in my car (very likely scenario).
Animal rescue isn't just helping the animals - it's helping the city get the animals off the street and helping families be reunited with the animals they had to leave behind.
So, aside from contacting my family members and friends, I am going to my "local" community. I think it's safe to say that I'm a trustworthy person - I've been a member here for over a year, have always been honest, have met several of you in person, etc.
If all works out well I would like to leave next Tuesday or Wednesday. Chances are I will be driving, in which case I could use gas cards and cash. If per chance, it would be possible to fly (with enough donations or frequent flyer miles), I would like to rent a car as they need people with cars, and so I have some place to sleep. If by chance, I was able to take a train I would still like a rental car upon arrival.
So, what I need? Money, gas cards, gift cards (sorry peeps, but Wal Mart is preferrable - the organization uses Wal Mart gift cards, so anything left over would go to them), flyer miles, connections (ie "I know someone who can get you a discount on...", someone to go with me (
).
Anything left over that I wouldn't be using to get there (money, cards) would be immediately donated to the organization (
Their site is pretty basic right now, as they're updating/changing information, but they're called Animal Rescue New Orleans.
So, there is my innocent plea. If you have anything to offer, feel free to PM me or make an anonymous donation through paypal to
j@bielanski.com . I am not doing this for a vacation; I truly want to help.
Godfather - if you feel this is inappropriate, please feel free to edit this.
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