Do you want to be a part of something bigger?

 The photo above is pretty scary to think about.  Homes, like the ones that you and I live in... destroyed, belongings lost.  Children, moms, dads, and siblings lost.  By now, you have heard, I am sure, about the crisis facing Japan.  My heart goes out to everyone involved.  They say it will likely take years to rebuild what has been lost, and it is no wonder.  The destruction was devastating!  But you can help those who are struggling to pick up the pieces, and here is how:

 

Origami birds.  Yep.  Birds, but not just any birds.  Cranes to be exact.  Cranes are a symbol of healing and hope, something Japan could definitely use right now.  That is why Students Rebuild has teamed up with DoSomething.org and is asking for your donations of paper cranes.  For every paper crane that they receive in the mail, the Benzos Family Foundation will donate $2 (up to $200,000!!!) to the Architecture for Humanity's reconstructive efforts in Japan.  I don't know about you, but I think that is pretty amazing.

Wonder what will happen with all those cranes?  They are going to be woven into an art installation as a gift to Japanese youth.

Now if you are like me, you would love to help, but are having trouble affording even gas to get to work.  No biggie, if you have enough paper (old magazine pages would work) to make 50 or more, then email Students Rebuild at info@studentsrebuild.org and they will gladly send you a free pre-paid shipping label.  Just put it on your box and shipping is free.  It's a great way to be a part of something bigger than yourself and to feel like you have really done something to help, even if you can't afford to.  All cranes should be mailed to:

Students Rebuild
1700 7th Avenue
STE 116 # 145
Seattle, WA 98101

And if you do make some, feel free to snap some pics and post it to the Paper Cranes for Japan Facebook page, and check out some other cranes while you are there!