14 Major Non-Profit Organizations Met in New Orleans to Reaffirm Commitment to
Human Needs Aspect of Gulf Coast Recovery
New Orleans, LA (Jan. 6, 2006) - Fourteen of the nation's largest,
best-known and most respected non-profit, human services organizations gathered
in New Orleans today to reaffirm their collective commitment to focus on the
human side of rebuilding lives in the Gulf Coast area.
Much has been said about rebuilding structures, homes and businesses in the
Gulf Coast area. But in order to rebuild a better state of human existence,
these fourteen organizations want to use their collective influence to ensure
human needs are not forgotten. "We remain committed to ensuring the viability
of neighborhoods; providing for the development and education of children; and
encouraging the self-sufficiency of the citizens of the area," says Brian
Gallagher of United Way of America.
In order to keep the focus on human needs during the long Gulf Coast recovery
and rebuilding progress, the group will undertake a listening initiative
to aggressively engage people, understand their needs and take those messages to
those who can most effect change. This effort will begin in the first quarter of
2006 and include visits to communities throughout the affected areas.
The organizations also call upon the Administration and Congress to approve
$10 billion over the next five years for rebuilding strategies that
emphasize human needs. Each of these organizations individually has already
devoted substantial resources to address the human needs of those affected in
the aftermath of the 2005 hurricane destruction -- and will continue to do so
- but the scope of need requires that government at all levels be a critical
partner.
The 14 organizations - a subset of a coalition of non-profit groups known as
"Leadership 18" - strongly believe in putting people first. These
established charities have long been - and will continue to be - on the ground
facing problems, helping people and strengthening communities throughout the
nation. Their work is vital to the safety, health, well-being and social and
economic development of a diverse population. Together, they help shape the
lives, neighborhoods, and future of millions of Americans from coast to
coast.
During the devastating 2005 hurricane season, these groups, along with many
others, have worked hand-in-hand in the hardest hit states of Louisiana, Alabama
and Mississippi, as well as in Texas, Florida and other areas that suffered
damage and welcomed evacuees who needed basic necessities and even new lives
and livelihoods.
At a press briefing in New Orleans today, the following representatives
shared additional details about this Gulf Coast initiative and the groups'
collaboration:
- Brian Gallagher, President and CEO, United Way of America
- Cynthia Wainscott, Acting President and CEO, National Mental
Health Association
- Marc Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League
- Commissioner Todd Bassett, National Commander, The Salvation Army
The Leadership 18 member organizations participating in this Gulf Coast
initiative include:
- Alliance for Children and Families
- American Cancer Society
- Boy Scouts of America
- Camp Fire USA
- Catholic Charities USA
- Girls Incorporated
- Goodwill Industries International, Inc.
- Lutheran Services in America
- National Mental Health Association, Inc.
- National Urban League, Inc.
- The Salvation Army
- United Way of America
- YMCA of the USA
- YWCA USA
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