As the friends of “Not Just a Dad” have seen, in April NeuroNetworks Fund partnered with Unicef and all donations to NNF will be sent to help relieve the suffering of the children of Ukraine. In May, we are sending all donations to NNF to Disability Rights International, a non-profit that is helping disabled children in Ukraine who have been abandoned by their caregivers.
Many of you sent supportive comments about this effort, reflecting the pain you feel about the senseless suffering of innocent children there. Some of you also asked why would we send our donations overseas, rather than focus on those in need in this country.
It’s a valid perspective, and understandable. But here is my perspective. Humans are blessed with big hearts and an enormous capacity for compassion. Unfortunately, there is no shortage of need anywhere, whether in this country or throughout the world. Certainly, Ukraine is at the forefront right now, and the need and the suffering are real and palpable.
It is a great blessing to be able to give and to be generous to those who have less than we do. As the parent of two young teens, I am filled with grief for the parents and innocent children who have been forced to leave their homes and make to make a new life in a strange country, or to live in their home communities filled with the fear of impending violence, or tragically to experience senseless violence and torture first hand. I feel lucky and blessed to be able to help – even in a small way.
For those of you who want to join us in supporting the effort to help the children in Ukraine, even a small gift is meaningful. And through a supporter of NNF, we have the opportunity to double all (fully tax-deductible) gifts received through the end May.
For those who wish to focus their giving on the needs that exist right here at home in the US, I say – yes! Please do! The important thing is to open our hearts and our wallets to those who are in need.
Just give. Be Kind.