For those interested in lending a helping hand to people hundreds or even thousands of miles away, here are some awesome charities to get involved with.

The United Way

In 2005, the United Way began a 10-year project to achieve three primary goals: cut the high school drop-out rate in half, cut the number of financially-unstable working families in half, and increase the percentage of healthy Americans by one-third. Almost half-way through this period, they are making astounding leaps towards these goals. You can help by donating to a specific area (education, income, health, or all three) or by volunteering at the local branch in Spokane.

United Way: http://www.liveunited.org/index.cfm
Spokane Branch: http://www.unitedwayspokane.org/

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is an international charity whose members and volunteers build houses for those in need. Though the homes are small and simple, they are often more shelter than their residents have ever had. Habitat for Humanity welcomes volunteer groups as well as individual help (hint hint for those youth groups or clubs in need of something to do).

Habitat for Humanity: http://www.habitat.org/default.aspx
Spokane Branch: http://www.habitat.org/cd/frame/frameset.aspx?url=www.habitat-spokane.org

International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee is a wonderful all-purpose sort of relief charity. They provide food and water, medical aid, education, and shelters to areas of the world torn apart by war or violence. In addition, they help refugees make a new life for themselves in the US. Though the closest branch is in Seattle, you can still help by donating, advocating, or simply staying informed.

IRC: http://www.theirc.org/

For those looking to do even more, here is an excellent list of the top-rated international relief charities in the country: http://www.charitywatch.org/toprated.html#intrelief

---

---