When my paternal grandfather was alive, he had mentioned that a very serious flood swept across Kerala. That was 1924. Unfortunately, he’s not around to compare what we’re experiencing today. Could this be the worse in close a century?
We won’t know for sure until it’s over. And it’s far from over. Most Keralites or Malayalis are proud of God’s Own Country. But what has happened in the last few days has been devastating, to say the least.
I honestly don’t have much experience fundraising for disaster relief (it’s certainly not the same as raising money for a company). So when my brother in law called to add me to a WhatsApp group – I had no idea what to expect, or what was going to happen. All I can say is that over the last few days, the group (as I’m sure many others) have been working around the clock to provide relief, logistics, and other support.
But it has taught me a few things – the need for communication, transparency. When I discussed with Mathew about The Indasda Foundation, it soon became clear – that transparency was important.
Most NGOs or Non Profits do not share enough details with supporters, donors, contributors, and patrons. As a result, they don’t get a clear picture of what they’re contributing to. And we’ve shared the same experience being a donor ourselves to various causes. We’ve contributed, without a word of thanks, without a receipt even in some cases, and then no further updates. It’s not easy.
I could go on for hours about what’s wrong and what’s working. But all that would be intellectual masturbation, while people who really need help are suffering. We’re not perfect, but I’m sure we can make an attempt to help others.
And while you may have contributed already, or you may have set aside a certain amount already and it’s been used up, that’s fine – just share the fundraising page with others, your friends, family and colleagues – someone may still be able to help.
So here’s the call for action…
For those who wish to pay in Indian Rupees (INR): https://www.ketto.org/supportkerala
For those who wish to pay in US Dollars (US$): https://www.ketto.org/keralafloodfund