GPTX

[UPDATE 12.29.11] We have received another $12,000 through Google's matching program.

[UPDATE 7.28.11]



[UPDATE 6.20.11] Thanks to a staff member who was able to have her host mother in Japan contact JRC directly, we were able to get a definitive answer. Unfortunately, JRC does not issue solicitation letters which means we cannot donate to the organization. However, it was suggested that we donate the funds to the Peace Boat organization as they are actively involved in the earthquake and tsunami relief. Hopefully we have better luck and can get this money working to help people.

[UPDATE 5.03.11] Some of you might be wondering why we have not posted any finalized receipt of the donation yet. As of date, we are still struggling with PayPal and the Red Cross (I note the Red Cross in general since we have been trying to contact the Japan Red Cross and have been in contact with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent and American Red Cross). Ironically, due to the success of the donation drive, PayPal limited our account in the fear that we might be scamming people under a charitable guise. Through many frustrating calls we were able to satisfy all of PayPal's questions and documentation demands save for one, a solicitation letter from the Japan Red Cross (JRC). This is an official letter from JRC giving us specific permission to fundraise in their name. Despite numerous emails, including ones in Japanese, we have not received one single contact from JRC. Currently we are working with the IFRC to see why no response has been received from JRC and if a letter can be obtained through them. As of such, PayPal will not budge on this requirement. We thank everybody for their patience as we work through this situation.

In light of the recent and ongoing tragedy that has occurred in Japan, we will be raising money in support of those affected. As a global community, SONEs not only support the girls, but we support each other.

More images and photos can be found: http://ti.me/gFykRo, http://nyti.ms/gELQFx, http://bit.ly/hkoHiY

There has been so many heartbreaking stories about the damage being done by tsunamis, earthquakes, volcano eruptions, etc in Japan right now that our hearts go out to everyone there and we hope to make a difference through this project for them. Because of the urgency and severity with everything happening in Japan right now donations will only be open until the end of the month for this project, so hopefully everyone can try to donate what they can.

****************************************************************************

WHO
Soshified will be collecting funds to be donated to Japanese Red Cross: http://bit.ly/gXU5SI Peace Boat: http://bit.ly/j9oHj1

One of the members of Soshified works for Google, and so what we're trying to do is raise funds and he donates the amount and then if possible Google will match the amount, therefore giving twice the amount of aid.

*Also one of our Project Leaders bbzidane said that he will match Soshified's donation up to $2500, so if Soshified donates $2500, he'll add his own $2500 to match our forum total.


HOW
1. Due to the short collection period, we will only be accepting Paypal donations. (Paypal DEADLINE: March 31st, 10pm EST)
2. Paypal

a. Send payments to
b. Click the 'personal gift' option to minimize fees. If a fee does appear, please pay it.
c. Please include the following in the Paypal subject box: [JAPAN] SSF display name (NOT your log-in user name).
3. Use the below format to post your donation in this thread:

Username:
Country:
Amount:

4. Once your donation has been confirmed, your name and donation amount will be listed below. If you wish to remain anonymous, you do not have to post your donation on the thread, but please make sure to include your SSF username in your Paypal payment as well as making a note that you wish to remain anonymous.

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FAQS
Q: I can't donate much, should I even bother?
A: Yes! Every donation helps.

Q: Do I become a Donor if I donate?
A: If you make a net donation (after Paypal fees are subtracted if applicable) of $10 USD or more, you will become a Donor [color="#DDA0DD"](Premium Economy) as long as you are not a color already.

Thank you everybody for your continued support for all the projects Soshified has been doing. Please keep it up in 2011 so that together as a SONE community, we can continue to make a difference!