Katrina. The Great Recession. The Oil Spill. I want to help.

[Tomer]

Hi everyone! I haven't been active in the forums for a long time but I thought some of you might be interested in helping so I'll give it a shot.

In the past five years the Gulf Coast of the United States has been hit by major hurricanes and now an oil spill. Most of the country could do little but watch and pray for the people whose lives were torn apart. Now, five years later, the devastated communities throughout Louisiana and Mississippi still need help.

Instead of continuing to watch, I will be joining a group of students from San Francisco Hillel as we travel to New Orleans with Jewish Funds for Justice this winter break. Our goal is to not only help community organizations in any way they need, but to learn about the community and attempt to understand how the situation developed and what we can do in the long run to make change. While most students look forward to spending their break relaxing in their homes or going on vacation, we are committing ourselves to service and learning.
I am looking forward to the trip, however the cost of getting there and staying for seven days will be approximately $600 per participant. This can be difficult on a college student budget. Our group is planning several fundraisers to help raise money and awareness but any assistance you can provide will be of great help. In addition, by passing this message along to your fellow community leaders you will already be helping us achieve our goal of spreading awareness of the ongoing need in various communities.

I am very much looking forward to this rewarding experience and returning with new perspectives on the importance of helping the communities around the United States. Your help will make this possible. Thank you for your time and consideration. I will be sure to update you when I return from this incredible life changing experience.

Here is a link to San Francisco Hillel website where you can donate:

Sponsor Our Trip

Much Appreciated,

Tomer Amar

YouTube video of former volunteers sharing their experience
[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reEIHqBpaw0[/ame]

Edit: or you can just help by simply upvoting this article on Reddit!
http://www.reddit.com/r/reddit.com/c..._spill_i_want/