Charity websites working to educate donors

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

I’ve long pushed for more honesty and transparency on charity websites. There is a critical need for more real information and fewer “happy stories“. Recently I’ve seen what I’m hoping is a new trend of charities…

A few results from the reader survey

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010

I want to thank all of you that took a couple of minutes to fill out the survey for me. For people that meant to take the survey but never quite got around to it, here’s the link.…

Seeking Feedback

Friday, August 20th, 2010

Although I think I have a pretty good handle on my readership, I could be wrong as there are many of you from whom I’ve never heard. This is your chance.

Please take a minute to fill out this survey…

Lessons Learned from 1millionshirts

Wednesday, August 18th, 2010

The Smart Aid Initiative has submitted a panel idea to South by Southwest for their 2011 Interactive session. Our idea made the first cut and is now out for public vote. If you’re interested in seeing this topic make it…

The DOs and DON’Ts of Disaster Donations

Tuesday, August 17th, 2010

Due to the flooding in Pakistan this article is being reposted

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The following is a series of dos and don’ts to help you make the best donation decisions after a disaster.

Do determine if the country is accepting international…

Donated Goods – Gone Bad

Friday, August 13th, 2010

This photo was taken over a year after the 2004 tsunami. With no need for the donated clothing the government boarded up a parking lot to store it. The clothing, kept in black plastic bags, molded in…

The Poverty Tourism Debate – a compilation post

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

The subject of poverty tourism keeps resurfacing in the aid world. The general crux of the debate is whether it’s OK to pay to look at poor people/areas. Proponents state that visiting other areas helps us understand the world and…

Why do we expect overheads at fast food restaurants but not in aid?

Tuesday, August 10th, 2010

Imagine walking into Wendy’s or Burger King (or whatever fast food restaurant you frequent) and insisting that you will only pay for whatever is actually on your hamburger. You’ll give them money for the cost of the bun, ketchup, hamburger…

Mosquito Nets and Recycling

Monday, August 9th, 2010

I’m traveling to DC and so won’t be writing any new posts this week. This is an older post that I feel is worth reposting.
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From the Kenyan newspaper the Daily Nation:

Mosquito net manufactures are

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The worst present ever

Friday, August 6th, 2010

I’m traveling to DC and so won’t be writing any new posts this week. This is an older post that I feel is worth reposting.
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What’s the worst present you ever received? A crazy colored sweater from your…