“Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. Yet, for many, the “rest of our lives” will be fraught with the scars of lost loved ones and the tireless work of rebuilding a country. The Haitian earthquake disaster is a heart wrenching reminder that forces beyond our control continually test our resolve. But we, as a civilization, hold the keys to how we rise above these forces through our actions in support of each other.

Throughout history, there have been countless examples of how people and nations put aside their own needs in favor of those in more dire situations…

We ALL have the innate instinct to give, especially during times of tragedy. However, giving should be a continuous process. This is the only way that we can sustain our support for those in need, during good times and bad….

In an effort to stimulate sustainable giving, I’ve joined with Dawn Carroll and other concerned citizens to establish the Over My Shoulder Foundation…

The Over My Shoulder Foundation will break down the barriers that separate generations of people and cultures. Through mentoring, it will exemplify how we are all increasingly inter-dependent on each other, rather than independent individuals. And, because of our inter-dependency, we can become a civilization that respects diversity, culture, and individuality….” – Patti Austin

Let’s continue helping Haiti:

• RED CROSS Call 1-800 RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
• UNITED NATIONS CENTRAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE FUND
• UNICEF
• C.A.R.E.
• SAVE THE CHILDREN
• INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CORPS

• STATE DEPT VICTIMS FAMILY HOTLINE
888-407-4747

• To help with relief efforts, text “HAITI” to “90999″ and $10 will be given automatically to the Red Cross, charged to your cell phone bill.