Mother Nature has reared her head and in a predictably unpredictable manner struck at the Gulf Coast with a vicious blow. In a more orderly fashion there is a common place where people seek solace and healing--in their faith. America, itself, is a country founded on faith, and this article will chronicle the birth and rise of just one of the efforts, by people of faith, to help their fellow man. Realizing the immediate need for spiritual and financial support for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, Rodney Sampson, a well-respected expert in faith-based marketing involving some of the biggest names in the African American community, is launching a national campaign to address these specific needs. When I interviewed Sampson, I found him to be a steadying influence and quite focused. 'Early in the Bible, from the story of Cain and Abel we learn that we are our brother's keeper,' said Sampson. 'Our brothers and sisters in New Orleans and all along the Gulf Coast are hurting and in need. It is our collective responsibility to take care of not only their spiritual needs, but also their physical needs.' Sampson, founder of The World Christian Times (www.worldchristiantimes.com) and Intellectual Currency Exchange, (www.intellectualcurrency.com), is mobilizing the hip hop, entertainment, business and faith based communities to encourage industry colleagues to donate money and offer strategic organized support for the relief efforts in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. 'At this point, we are organizing a global grass roots campaign to encourage people to donate money to OPERATION S.A.V.E., which is focusing on both immediate and ongoing transitional support' said Sampson. Clearly Sampson is looking to the future and trying to anticipate the needs of over a half million newly displaced people.
HURRICANE KATRINA VICTIMS RELIEF FOCUS
In talking with Sampson he discussed Operation S.A.V.E. and its specific focus. Realizing that tens of millions of dollars will be donated but may never directly affect the persons most affected, monies raised by Operation S.A.V.E. will be distributed in four strategic areas:
SAFETY ' Monies will be donated to faith-based organizations to assist with making direct contact with families in transition. Medical supplies, prescribed medications, toiletries, and other necessities will be purchased and provided directly to families in transition.
ATTITUDES ' Bibles and other encouraging books will be purchased and provided to families in transition; Internet broadcasting technology will be used to distribute encouraging messages of hope from faith based and entertainment leaders.