Two stories of interest from the New York Times:

Making a Child’s Life Better in Every Corner

from an interview with Caryl M. Stern, who after eighteen years with the ADL, joined UNICEF in 2006 and now is President and CEO of their United States Fund.

Q. After crises, there is such urgency about contributing money quickly and online. Why?

A. It’s not enough to get America to write that check. We’ve got to get that check in the system, we’ve got to be able to bank it, we’ve got to clear it and get it to where it’s got to go. If you make a donation on your credit card online, it transfers so much faster. Within 24 hours, that money can be actionable on the ground. Supplies like sheeting, water purification tablets and medical supplies can’t be ordered if there is no money.

Can the New Rich Buy Respect? One Ukrainian Oligarch Is Trying

There comes a time in the life of an oligarch when spending money becomes more important than making it. And for Victor Pinchuk, the controversial oligarch and Ukraine’s second-richest man after Rinat Akhmetov, that time is now.

eJP note: I can’t help but notice the absence of Jewish philanthropy on a Google search for Victor Pinchuk. Maybe Zeevik should invite him to the November board meetings. After all, JAFI’s current budget shortfall effects their work in the FSU.

and this, from The Wall Street Journal:

Charity Sites That Let Donors Call the Shots

A new breed of charities allows donors to browse descriptions of specific projects online before funding them.