Capstone Client Final Presentation of Flint Michigan Water Crisis Emergency Responder Group - Includes:
Risk Assessment
Strategy Assessment
Asset Assessment
Development Opportunities
Templates of Deliverables
Budget
Calendar
Field Interviews
Survey Analysis
Demographic Analysis
The document summarizes research on the recovery of the small town of Wadena, Minnesota following an EF4 tornado in 2010. It finds that Wadena was able to successfully leverage its various community capitals (e.g. social, human, financial, cultural) in both the response and long-term recovery process. Strong leadership mobilized volunteers and resources. Shared cultural values of self-help and cooperation helped drive recovery. The experience suggests that communities with engaged leadership and social cohesion may be better positioned to recover from disasters.
A short presentation for the AJEMC Scholastic Division Teach-in, Aug. 5, 2020 â "Ideas That Will Help Now." 1) Make use of government images and other public domain or Creative Commons images; 2) Think outside the box with your coverage focusing on issues and people; 3) Make use of consumer-generated content.
Kimblin NeSmith introduced herself as a candidate for county commission district three. She outlined three key issues she plans to focus on: improving recreation and parks, repaving roads, and partnering with businesses for community development and jobs to end the food desert and provide opportunities. NeSmith asked for voters' support so that together they can unify the district and bring about positive change.
The newsletter provides information on upcoming events related to land use and the environment in Cecil County. It summarizes a presentation on agricultural land preservation that discussed the mechanisms for establishing easements. It also provides updates on the charter government proposal and congratulates Rupert Rossetti for receiving a state water conservation award. Finally, it includes the regular "Cecil Watershed Watch" section with information on local watershed activities, projects, and a proposed quarry expansion.
After the closure of the Long Island Bridge forced the evacuation of a large women's recovery home, Victory Programs worked to restore lost recovery bed capacity. One year later, they have made progress but still need to raise funds to rehabilitate two properties into new women's recovery homes. The document discusses Victory Programs' history of serving vulnerable populations and their current efforts to rebuild after the disruption caused by the bridge closure.
Red Cross Disaster Update--Southeast Tornadoes Spring 2011EastGeorgiaRedCross
Â
Spring 2011 Tornado Diaster Services update as of May 9, 2011.
For more information on how you can help, visit:
www.eastgeorgia.redcross.org
or
http://www.facebook.com/redcrossega
The document provides information about the Carteret Local Food Network (CLFN) and its efforts to connect local farmers and consumers, help farmers comply with regulations, and increase production and marketing of local foods in Carteret County. Specifically, CLFN lists local farms and produces on its website and brochure, hosts farm tours and cooking classes, and oversees an underground farm that sells produce through a community supported agriculture program. The overall goal is to help local farmers continue operating and increase the availability of locally grown foods.
This document provides testimony from the Staten Island Interfaith and Community Long Term Recovery Organization in support of a proposed Hurricane Sandy recovery task force. The organization formed after Sandy to coordinate recovery efforts across 90+ organizations on Staten Island. It recommends that the task force ensure equal borough representation and consider leadership from Long Term Recovery groups due to their experience and knowledge of ongoing unmet needs. The testimony also outlines the various services provided by member organizations to thousands of Staten Island residents over the past two years of recovery.
The document summarizes research on the recovery of the small town of Wadena, Minnesota following an EF4 tornado in 2010. It finds that Wadena was able to successfully leverage its various community capitals (e.g. social, human, financial, cultural) in both the response and long-term recovery process. Strong leadership mobilized volunteers and resources. Shared cultural values of self-help and cooperation helped drive recovery. The experience suggests that communities with engaged leadership and social cohesion may be better positioned to recover from disasters.
A short presentation for the AJEMC Scholastic Division Teach-in, Aug. 5, 2020 â "Ideas That Will Help Now." 1) Make use of government images and other public domain or Creative Commons images; 2) Think outside the box with your coverage focusing on issues and people; 3) Make use of consumer-generated content.
Kimblin NeSmith introduced herself as a candidate for county commission district three. She outlined three key issues she plans to focus on: improving recreation and parks, repaving roads, and partnering with businesses for community development and jobs to end the food desert and provide opportunities. NeSmith asked for voters' support so that together they can unify the district and bring about positive change.
The newsletter provides information on upcoming events related to land use and the environment in Cecil County. It summarizes a presentation on agricultural land preservation that discussed the mechanisms for establishing easements. It also provides updates on the charter government proposal and congratulates Rupert Rossetti for receiving a state water conservation award. Finally, it includes the regular "Cecil Watershed Watch" section with information on local watershed activities, projects, and a proposed quarry expansion.
After the closure of the Long Island Bridge forced the evacuation of a large women's recovery home, Victory Programs worked to restore lost recovery bed capacity. One year later, they have made progress but still need to raise funds to rehabilitate two properties into new women's recovery homes. The document discusses Victory Programs' history of serving vulnerable populations and their current efforts to rebuild after the disruption caused by the bridge closure.
Red Cross Disaster Update--Southeast Tornadoes Spring 2011EastGeorgiaRedCross
Â
Spring 2011 Tornado Diaster Services update as of May 9, 2011.
For more information on how you can help, visit:
www.eastgeorgia.redcross.org
or
http://www.facebook.com/redcrossega
The document provides information about the Carteret Local Food Network (CLFN) and its efforts to connect local farmers and consumers, help farmers comply with regulations, and increase production and marketing of local foods in Carteret County. Specifically, CLFN lists local farms and produces on its website and brochure, hosts farm tours and cooking classes, and oversees an underground farm that sells produce through a community supported agriculture program. The overall goal is to help local farmers continue operating and increase the availability of locally grown foods.
This document provides testimony from the Staten Island Interfaith and Community Long Term Recovery Organization in support of a proposed Hurricane Sandy recovery task force. The organization formed after Sandy to coordinate recovery efforts across 90+ organizations on Staten Island. It recommends that the task force ensure equal borough representation and consider leadership from Long Term Recovery groups due to their experience and knowledge of ongoing unmet needs. The testimony also outlines the various services provided by member organizations to thousands of Staten Island residents over the past two years of recovery.
The United Way of the Adirondack Region 2-1-1 Campaignchyressewells
Â
The document summarizes a student presentation about raising awareness for the United Way's 2-1-1 service in the Adirondack Region. The goal was to increase call volume to the service by 300 emails and 1,000 calls by implementing an awareness campaign using on-campus and community events, social media, and traditional media. The campaign targeted college students and county residents, utilizing tactics like distributing flyers, bookmarks and creating social media pages and screen savers which resulted in over 24,000 impressions.
This document summarizes several stories from the Trinity Standard newspaper. It describes an adoptable dog named Sassy available from Paws of Trinity County animal shelter. It also summarizes the results of the 4-H shooting competition and cook-off, naming the winning teams. Finally, it provides a brief overview of items discussed at the Trinity County Commissioners Court meeting, including ambulance contracts, speed limit signs, and grant project updates.
The Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO) is a non-profit organization that represents neighborhoods and helps residents navigate city and county processes. CONO was formed 39 years ago to give neighborhoods a voice with local governments. CONO director Dave Munger and former city councilman Bernie Herpin talked with participants during a recent neighborhood cleanup. CONO provides training to members on issues like safety, beautification, and dealing with homeowners associations. It advocates for residents and aims to make fighting city hall unnecessary.
This article discusses emergency preparedness in Winnebago County and Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It notes that past research shows many people feel less prepared for disasters than they actually are. It then provides a brief timeline of past disasters in Oshkosh, including fires, tornadoes, floods, epidemics, and chemical spills. The article encourages residents to take preparedness more seriously and outlines resources available in Winnebago County to help with emergency planning, including the Local Emergency Planning Committee. It concludes by sharing lessons from the author's experience with military evacuation drills and provides a "Top Five" list of ways to prepare for recovery and resilience after a disaster.
This document summarizes a press conference held by Prince George's County and Maryland state officials to announce a partnership to improve healthcare in the county. The partnership between the state, University of Maryland Medical System, University System of Maryland, and Dimensions Healthcare System will redevelop Prince George's Hospital Center and build a new regional medical center. The multi-phase project aims to strengthen the county's healthcare system, facilities, and access to care. Officials expressed optimism about the impact of this collaborative effort on healthcare quality and outcomes for county residents.
This document is a proposal submitted to Dr. Don W. Stacks of the University of Miami for a Home Fire Secure Campaign by the American Red Cross chapter in Greater Miami and the Keys. The proposal aims to advance knowledge of home fire safety and prevention in local communities. It provides background on the Red Cross, describes the goals of the national Home Fire Campaign to reduce deaths and injuries from home fires, and identifies stakeholders and target audiences for the local campaign. The proposal will analyze the situation, identify target audiences, and provide recommendations and a timeline for how to efficiently reach target audiences to decrease deaths and injuries from home fires in South Florida.
The Winona County Climate Dialogue is the third in a series of projects aimed at supporting rural citizens to assert leadership and build resiliency in the face of extreme weather and changing climate conditions.
As part of this graduate level course in GIS, we researched problem properties in St. Louis City. We analyzed factors such as educational attainment, food access, job opportunity, housing affordability, and transportation, and their association (if any) with the prevalence of problem properties.
This was accomplished by creating GIS products visualizing these various factors, and then by visually analyzing whether certain community characteristics coincided with high levels of problem properties.
Our findings were presented to the City of St. Louis's Problem Properties Unit. We found strong, positive correlations between many of the factors that we evaluated, suggesting interdependencies among factors. Neighborhoods with high visual clusters of problem properties tended to have higher crime rates, poor food access, unaffordable housing, and lower quality schools. Black communities were disproportionately impacted across several measures.
âWe can no longer afford to minimize or ignore the contributions of women and girls to all stages of conflict resolution, peacemaking, peace-building, peacekeeping and reconstruction processes.
Sustainable peace will not be achieved without the full and equal participation of women and men.â1 Kofi Annan Wars in the past two decades have heightened awareness of the vulnerability of non-combatants in civil strife. Civilians in every major conflict â Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bosnia, Cambodia, El Salvador and others â have been regularly targeted as a tactic of war. Women have not escaped this targeting â in fact, in many conflicts, women have been particular targets, as armed forces attempt to demoralize their opponents.
At the same time, women have not participated in political negotiations to end their conflicts. Neither have they been included in many UN-sponsored mediations. As a result, a special concern for womenâs issues is often missing from peace settlements, hampering reconstruction and reconciliation processes. Contemporary analysis of war and peace issues often draws on the idea of human securityâin addition to national securityâ in order to focus on the individual as well as the connections between individuals and groups within societies.
In that way, peace depends on the belief by all those affected by the outcome of a negotiated peace or the resumption of war and violence (referred to as âstakeholdersâ) that their needs and aspirations will be taken into account. Increasingly, the inclusion of women is an essential element to understanding the roots of a conflict and also to developing innovative, viable solutions that can help establish sustainable peace. The importance of bringing gender into peacebuilding is not confined to redressing the violations of the human rights of women or addressing womenâs economic, social, or justice needs. Instead, for many, a gendered perspective represents peacebuilding as a process of inclusion.
The document summarizes homelessness in Montgomery County, Maryland. It finds that the county's point-in-time survey in 2013 counted 1,007 homeless individuals, including 117 families and 638 individuals. While this represented a 2.5% increase from 2012, it was an 11% decrease since 2011. The top causes of homelessness discussed are the lack of affordable housing, poverty, and disabilities among the homeless population. The county provides a continuum of services and housing options to assist the homeless, including emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing programs, and initiatives to end chronic homelessness.
This document analyzes funding options for transportation infrastructure in Boone County, Missouri. As the county's population grows, existing infrastructure is under strain and new development requires additional roads. Current funding sources for the county's Road and Bridge Fund, including property taxes, sales tax, state funding, and fees, are insufficient to maintain existing infrastructure and build new infrastructure needed to support growth. The document reviews literature on alternative funding mechanisms and criteria to evaluate options for improving Boone County's transportation infrastructure financing.
This amicus brief argues that the district court erred in granting summary judgment finding the City of New York intentionally discriminated against black and Hispanic applicants for firefighter positions. The brief asserts that the City presented evidence that it conducted proper job analyses, developed valid, race-neutral exams that were job-related in compliance with EEOC guidelines, undertook extensive efforts to recruit minority candidates, and made hiring decisions in a race-blind manner. Given this evidence creating factual issues, the brief argues summary judgment was inappropriate and the finding of intentional discrimination is unsupported and should be reversed. The brief also argues the remedial measures imposed exceeded the district court's authority and that reassignment to a new judge is warranted.
The document summarizes news from FEMA Region 6. It discusses visits by HUD representatives to discuss disaster recovery programs, a human services summit between FEMA and partner organizations, and a Region 6 employee who appeared on the TV show Antiques Roadshow to have Civil War artifacts appraised. It also provides a short biography of the Region 6 Deputy Administrator and notes that the Regional Administrator communicates through Twitter.
"I have never engaged in a sexual act with anyone under the age of 18...I have never engaged in any unlawful act." Michael Geilenfeld, May 5, 2013. --Michael Geilenfeld has been accused of sexually abusing children since the late 1980s in Haiti. Accused by multiple people, multiple times.
The document is a newsletter providing information about upcoming community events in Syracuse, Kansas during March 2013. It includes announcements for Bingo games, a Cub Scout banquet, a concert by the Armouraires Quartet, a marriage seminar, an Easter egg hunt, and an Oasis seminar. It also provides a local news story about a Colorado man being arrested for drug charges during a traffic stop. The newsletter serves to inform community members of social and civic activities happening in the area.
SAHARO works without regard to creed, race, gender, or ethnicity, and is one of the reputed humanitarian networks.
SAHARO provides a beacon of hope for thousands of women, men and children in times of hardship and contributes to the development of social justice in times of peace. Saharoâ mandate includes integral development, emergency relief, advocacy, peace building, respect for human rights and support for proper stewardship of the planetâs environment and resources.
The SAHARO approach is based on the social teaching, which focuses on the dignity of the human person. Saharoâ work on behalf of the poor manifests Godâs love for all of creation.
SAHARO believes that the weak and oppressed are not objects of pity, but agents of change leading the struggle to eradicate dehumanizing poverty, unacceptable living and working conditions, and unjust social, political, economic and cultural structures.
What makes SAHARO unique is its ongoing presence in communities, before, during and after crisis situations. Important, too, is that being part of civil society and incorporating the perspective of the poor, Saharo can continuously adapt its strategies to an ever changing environment.
SAHARO fights poverty, exclusion, intolerance and discrimination. More importantly, it empowers people to participate fully in all matters affecting their lives, and it advocates on their behalf at national and international forums.
SAHARO promotes partnership: local autonomy is paramount in ensuring effective teamwork for the good of all. By pooling expertise and resources, SAHARO is able to identify issues at the grassroots, analyze them at national and international levels, and then take action locally, regionally and globally
This newsletter provides a summary of events from the Justinian Society of Lawyers from 2014-2015. It discusses the successful golf outing and installation dinner that raised funds for scholarships. It highlights several scholarship recipients and law students who received awards at the scholarship dinner. It also includes letters of thanks and congratulations to society members for their work and accomplishments.
Protests have emerged in the US against lockdown measures implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus. While some protesters argue the lockdowns infringe on civil liberties, others see the protests as politically motivated by conservatives seeking to undermine Democratic governors and blame others for the economic impact of the pandemic. Public health experts warn lifting restrictions too early could worsen outbreaks, but politicians are facing pressure to reopen economies despite hundreds still dying daily in the US.
US economy sinks 4.8% amid coronavirus shutdownsAadeshRajput1
Â
The US economy suffered its most severe contraction in more than a decade in the first quarter of the year, as the country introduced lockdowns to slow the spread of coronavirus.
The 10th annual Childhood Exposure to Violence (CEV) Prevention Week took place from April 18-22, 2016 with events hosted by Chicago Safe Start and over 20 partner organizations. Over 350 people participated in 9 events across 6 Chicago neighborhoods focused on raising awareness about the negative effects of CEV on young children and providing resources to help families and communities prevent violence exposure. Honorees were recognized for their leadership and efforts to address CEV. The week included art contests, training sessions, and a social media campaign to encourage support for CEV prevention.
This document discusses clean water and sanitation. It notes that access to clean water is essential for survival and a foundation for thriving communities. While infrastructure improvements require government assistance, individuals can help by donating aid and raising awareness through social media. Social media has helped give attention to cities with unclean water and fundraising efforts, though it took Flint, Michigan five years of protesting and $400 million to receive clean water after their crisis received widespread coverage.
This document summarizes a study on perceptions of affordable housing in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The study found that 80.5% of survey respondents felt there was a need for more affordable housing. When asked about solutions, the most supported was having the county work with private developers to build more affordable units. The study also reviewed census data showing housing costs have become less affordable over time in Brunswick County as incomes have not kept up. It recommends establishing a housing task force to create a strategic plan to address the affordable housing need through various means like supporting affordable rental units and requiring a percentage of affordable units in new developments.
The United Way of the Adirondack Region 2-1-1 Campaignchyressewells
Â
The document summarizes a student presentation about raising awareness for the United Way's 2-1-1 service in the Adirondack Region. The goal was to increase call volume to the service by 300 emails and 1,000 calls by implementing an awareness campaign using on-campus and community events, social media, and traditional media. The campaign targeted college students and county residents, utilizing tactics like distributing flyers, bookmarks and creating social media pages and screen savers which resulted in over 24,000 impressions.
This document summarizes several stories from the Trinity Standard newspaper. It describes an adoptable dog named Sassy available from Paws of Trinity County animal shelter. It also summarizes the results of the 4-H shooting competition and cook-off, naming the winning teams. Finally, it provides a brief overview of items discussed at the Trinity County Commissioners Court meeting, including ambulance contracts, speed limit signs, and grant project updates.
The Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO) is a non-profit organization that represents neighborhoods and helps residents navigate city and county processes. CONO was formed 39 years ago to give neighborhoods a voice with local governments. CONO director Dave Munger and former city councilman Bernie Herpin talked with participants during a recent neighborhood cleanup. CONO provides training to members on issues like safety, beautification, and dealing with homeowners associations. It advocates for residents and aims to make fighting city hall unnecessary.
This article discusses emergency preparedness in Winnebago County and Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It notes that past research shows many people feel less prepared for disasters than they actually are. It then provides a brief timeline of past disasters in Oshkosh, including fires, tornadoes, floods, epidemics, and chemical spills. The article encourages residents to take preparedness more seriously and outlines resources available in Winnebago County to help with emergency planning, including the Local Emergency Planning Committee. It concludes by sharing lessons from the author's experience with military evacuation drills and provides a "Top Five" list of ways to prepare for recovery and resilience after a disaster.
This document summarizes a press conference held by Prince George's County and Maryland state officials to announce a partnership to improve healthcare in the county. The partnership between the state, University of Maryland Medical System, University System of Maryland, and Dimensions Healthcare System will redevelop Prince George's Hospital Center and build a new regional medical center. The multi-phase project aims to strengthen the county's healthcare system, facilities, and access to care. Officials expressed optimism about the impact of this collaborative effort on healthcare quality and outcomes for county residents.
This document is a proposal submitted to Dr. Don W. Stacks of the University of Miami for a Home Fire Secure Campaign by the American Red Cross chapter in Greater Miami and the Keys. The proposal aims to advance knowledge of home fire safety and prevention in local communities. It provides background on the Red Cross, describes the goals of the national Home Fire Campaign to reduce deaths and injuries from home fires, and identifies stakeholders and target audiences for the local campaign. The proposal will analyze the situation, identify target audiences, and provide recommendations and a timeline for how to efficiently reach target audiences to decrease deaths and injuries from home fires in South Florida.
The Winona County Climate Dialogue is the third in a series of projects aimed at supporting rural citizens to assert leadership and build resiliency in the face of extreme weather and changing climate conditions.
As part of this graduate level course in GIS, we researched problem properties in St. Louis City. We analyzed factors such as educational attainment, food access, job opportunity, housing affordability, and transportation, and their association (if any) with the prevalence of problem properties.
This was accomplished by creating GIS products visualizing these various factors, and then by visually analyzing whether certain community characteristics coincided with high levels of problem properties.
Our findings were presented to the City of St. Louis's Problem Properties Unit. We found strong, positive correlations between many of the factors that we evaluated, suggesting interdependencies among factors. Neighborhoods with high visual clusters of problem properties tended to have higher crime rates, poor food access, unaffordable housing, and lower quality schools. Black communities were disproportionately impacted across several measures.
âWe can no longer afford to minimize or ignore the contributions of women and girls to all stages of conflict resolution, peacemaking, peace-building, peacekeeping and reconstruction processes.
Sustainable peace will not be achieved without the full and equal participation of women and men.â1 Kofi Annan Wars in the past two decades have heightened awareness of the vulnerability of non-combatants in civil strife. Civilians in every major conflict â Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bosnia, Cambodia, El Salvador and others â have been regularly targeted as a tactic of war. Women have not escaped this targeting â in fact, in many conflicts, women have been particular targets, as armed forces attempt to demoralize their opponents.
At the same time, women have not participated in political negotiations to end their conflicts. Neither have they been included in many UN-sponsored mediations. As a result, a special concern for womenâs issues is often missing from peace settlements, hampering reconstruction and reconciliation processes. Contemporary analysis of war and peace issues often draws on the idea of human securityâin addition to national securityâ in order to focus on the individual as well as the connections between individuals and groups within societies.
In that way, peace depends on the belief by all those affected by the outcome of a negotiated peace or the resumption of war and violence (referred to as âstakeholdersâ) that their needs and aspirations will be taken into account. Increasingly, the inclusion of women is an essential element to understanding the roots of a conflict and also to developing innovative, viable solutions that can help establish sustainable peace. The importance of bringing gender into peacebuilding is not confined to redressing the violations of the human rights of women or addressing womenâs economic, social, or justice needs. Instead, for many, a gendered perspective represents peacebuilding as a process of inclusion.
The document summarizes homelessness in Montgomery County, Maryland. It finds that the county's point-in-time survey in 2013 counted 1,007 homeless individuals, including 117 families and 638 individuals. While this represented a 2.5% increase from 2012, it was an 11% decrease since 2011. The top causes of homelessness discussed are the lack of affordable housing, poverty, and disabilities among the homeless population. The county provides a continuum of services and housing options to assist the homeless, including emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing programs, and initiatives to end chronic homelessness.
This document analyzes funding options for transportation infrastructure in Boone County, Missouri. As the county's population grows, existing infrastructure is under strain and new development requires additional roads. Current funding sources for the county's Road and Bridge Fund, including property taxes, sales tax, state funding, and fees, are insufficient to maintain existing infrastructure and build new infrastructure needed to support growth. The document reviews literature on alternative funding mechanisms and criteria to evaluate options for improving Boone County's transportation infrastructure financing.
This amicus brief argues that the district court erred in granting summary judgment finding the City of New York intentionally discriminated against black and Hispanic applicants for firefighter positions. The brief asserts that the City presented evidence that it conducted proper job analyses, developed valid, race-neutral exams that were job-related in compliance with EEOC guidelines, undertook extensive efforts to recruit minority candidates, and made hiring decisions in a race-blind manner. Given this evidence creating factual issues, the brief argues summary judgment was inappropriate and the finding of intentional discrimination is unsupported and should be reversed. The brief also argues the remedial measures imposed exceeded the district court's authority and that reassignment to a new judge is warranted.
The document summarizes news from FEMA Region 6. It discusses visits by HUD representatives to discuss disaster recovery programs, a human services summit between FEMA and partner organizations, and a Region 6 employee who appeared on the TV show Antiques Roadshow to have Civil War artifacts appraised. It also provides a short biography of the Region 6 Deputy Administrator and notes that the Regional Administrator communicates through Twitter.
"I have never engaged in a sexual act with anyone under the age of 18...I have never engaged in any unlawful act." Michael Geilenfeld, May 5, 2013. --Michael Geilenfeld has been accused of sexually abusing children since the late 1980s in Haiti. Accused by multiple people, multiple times.
The document is a newsletter providing information about upcoming community events in Syracuse, Kansas during March 2013. It includes announcements for Bingo games, a Cub Scout banquet, a concert by the Armouraires Quartet, a marriage seminar, an Easter egg hunt, and an Oasis seminar. It also provides a local news story about a Colorado man being arrested for drug charges during a traffic stop. The newsletter serves to inform community members of social and civic activities happening in the area.
SAHARO works without regard to creed, race, gender, or ethnicity, and is one of the reputed humanitarian networks.
SAHARO provides a beacon of hope for thousands of women, men and children in times of hardship and contributes to the development of social justice in times of peace. Saharoâ mandate includes integral development, emergency relief, advocacy, peace building, respect for human rights and support for proper stewardship of the planetâs environment and resources.
The SAHARO approach is based on the social teaching, which focuses on the dignity of the human person. Saharoâ work on behalf of the poor manifests Godâs love for all of creation.
SAHARO believes that the weak and oppressed are not objects of pity, but agents of change leading the struggle to eradicate dehumanizing poverty, unacceptable living and working conditions, and unjust social, political, economic and cultural structures.
What makes SAHARO unique is its ongoing presence in communities, before, during and after crisis situations. Important, too, is that being part of civil society and incorporating the perspective of the poor, Saharo can continuously adapt its strategies to an ever changing environment.
SAHARO fights poverty, exclusion, intolerance and discrimination. More importantly, it empowers people to participate fully in all matters affecting their lives, and it advocates on their behalf at national and international forums.
SAHARO promotes partnership: local autonomy is paramount in ensuring effective teamwork for the good of all. By pooling expertise and resources, SAHARO is able to identify issues at the grassroots, analyze them at national and international levels, and then take action locally, regionally and globally
This newsletter provides a summary of events from the Justinian Society of Lawyers from 2014-2015. It discusses the successful golf outing and installation dinner that raised funds for scholarships. It highlights several scholarship recipients and law students who received awards at the scholarship dinner. It also includes letters of thanks and congratulations to society members for their work and accomplishments.
Protests have emerged in the US against lockdown measures implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus. While some protesters argue the lockdowns infringe on civil liberties, others see the protests as politically motivated by conservatives seeking to undermine Democratic governors and blame others for the economic impact of the pandemic. Public health experts warn lifting restrictions too early could worsen outbreaks, but politicians are facing pressure to reopen economies despite hundreds still dying daily in the US.
US economy sinks 4.8% amid coronavirus shutdownsAadeshRajput1
Â
The US economy suffered its most severe contraction in more than a decade in the first quarter of the year, as the country introduced lockdowns to slow the spread of coronavirus.
The 10th annual Childhood Exposure to Violence (CEV) Prevention Week took place from April 18-22, 2016 with events hosted by Chicago Safe Start and over 20 partner organizations. Over 350 people participated in 9 events across 6 Chicago neighborhoods focused on raising awareness about the negative effects of CEV on young children and providing resources to help families and communities prevent violence exposure. Honorees were recognized for their leadership and efforts to address CEV. The week included art contests, training sessions, and a social media campaign to encourage support for CEV prevention.
This document discusses clean water and sanitation. It notes that access to clean water is essential for survival and a foundation for thriving communities. While infrastructure improvements require government assistance, individuals can help by donating aid and raising awareness through social media. Social media has helped give attention to cities with unclean water and fundraising efforts, though it took Flint, Michigan five years of protesting and $400 million to receive clean water after their crisis received widespread coverage.
This document summarizes a study on perceptions of affordable housing in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The study found that 80.5% of survey respondents felt there was a need for more affordable housing. When asked about solutions, the most supported was having the county work with private developers to build more affordable units. The study also reviewed census data showing housing costs have become less affordable over time in Brunswick County as incomes have not kept up. It recommends establishing a housing task force to create a strategic plan to address the affordable housing need through various means like supporting affordable rental units and requiring a percentage of affordable units in new developments.
This paper examines the institutional and political constraints that
inhibit multilateral and bilateral donor agencies supporting poverty reduction
initiatives on the ground. These include the constraints related to their own structures
and the political systems in which they are embedded, and those related to
their relationships with recipient governments. The paper also considers how
current trends in development assistance towards greater donor harmonization
and the associated processes within Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs), the
shift from project support to budget support, and the drive for greater âefficiencyâ
may further limit donorsâ capacity to support pro-poor local initiatives. It also
discusses how these trends in development assistance are marginalizing support
for those aspects of development that require relatively little external funding but
also require that this funding be used carefully and strategically, engaging directly
with poor groups and their organizations, and enlarging their scope for influence
and action.
New York City, NY | Spring 2013 | SIX-MONTH UPDATE ON HURRICANE SANDY RELIEF ...Elizabeth LoNigro
Â
The Mayor's Fund allocated over $10 million toward repairing homes damaged by Hurricane Sandy. As part of this effort, over 1,700 households completed intake for a mold treatment program funded by the Mayor's Fund, which aims to treat mold in 2,000 homes across New York City. To date, mold treatment has been completed in nearly 500 homes, with over 750 currently undergoing treatment. The Mayor's Fund is also supporting mold awareness training and the distribution of over 1,100 mold clean-up kits to help residents safely address mold issues in their homes.
Annual report of the Chicago Community Trust, a community foundation dedicated to improving our region through strategic grant making, civic engagement and inspiring philanthropy.
2014_Philanthropy and Hurricane Sandy_Steven LawrenceSteven Lawrence
Â
Institutional philanthropies provided over $380 million in response to Hurricane Sandy, including $328.4 million in cash commitments from 593 foundations, corporations, and other donors. Corporate giving accounted for the largest share at $136.4 million, while public foundations contributed $131.1 million. Funding focused heavily on human services (44%) and housing (11%). New York and New Jersey received nearly half the funding, while the American Red Cross received 23% of support overall.
Tracing the Impact of Media Relations andTelevision Coverage.docxjuliennehar
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Tracing the Impact of Media Relations and
Television Coverage on U.S. Charitable
Relief Fundraising: An Application of Agenda-Setting
Theory across Three Natural Disasters
Richard D. Waters
School of Management, University of San Francisco
Fundraising practitioners have often expressed the desire to gain media coverage of their nonprofit
organization because it will result in increased donations. Although this folklore is commonly
believed by many fundraisers, there is little evidence to support this claim. This study uses the
agenda-setting theory as the framework to test whether television news coverage of 3 natural disasters
and the nonprofit organizations working to provide charitable relief in wake of the events results in
increased donations to the nonprofit organizations. Using the 2004 Asian tsunami, 2005âs Hurricane
Katrina, and the 2010 Haitian earthquake to test the publicâs response to relief efforts, the study found
little support for increased donations to the 5 leading organizations providing relief in relation to gen-
eric news coverage of the disasters. However, when the organizations were specifically mentioned by
reporters in the newscasts, noticeable same-day spikes were seen in donations to the organizationsâ
fundraising efforts. Similarly, when organizations were able to place spokespeople in the newscast
to talk about their efforts, increased donations resulted from these proactive media relations efforts.
As 2004 ended, one of the strongest earthquakes on record occurred along the floor of the Indian
Ocean. The resulting tsunami devastated 14 nationsâ coastlines and killed more than 250,000
people from these nations and tourists from 54 other countries around the globe. Less than 9
months later, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast from central Florida to Texas, causing more
than $108 billion in damage and causing 1,833 confirmed fatalities. In January, 2010, the island
nation of Haiti was rocked by an earthquake measuring seven on the Richter scale, which
government estimates claim resulted in 316,000 deaths and the destruction of 250,000 residences
and 30,000 commercial and government buildings. Despite the widespread geographic distance
between these three locations and the causes of the damage, these three natural disasters share
one thing in common: Within hours of the events, nonprofit organizations began raising funds so
they could provide immediate humanitarian aid to those in need.
Annually, Americans donate close to $300 billion to nonprofit organizations. According to
the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Americans gave $1.6 billion in cash in the year following the
2004 Asian tsunamis, $3.3 billion to 2005âs Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, and $1.4 billion
to the 2010 Haitian earthquake response. More than 130 nonprofit organizations raised funds
Correspondence should be sent to Richard D. Waters, PhD, University of San Francisco, School of Management,
2130 Fulton Street, San Franc ...
Citizens of Wichita participated in 102 community meetings to discuss survey results and provide input on priorities and funding. Creating a reliable long-term water supply was the highest priority for funding. Improving streets and establishing passenger train service were also high priorities. Meeting needs of the homeless and encouraging economic development were discussed. Vision statements focused on job creation, cultural amenities, and ensuring opportunities for future generations.
Department of Environmental Quality - A digital reputation management case st...mbilawchuk
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This document provides a case study of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality's (DEQ) handling of the Flint water crisis in two phases. In phase 1 from 2014-2016, the DEQ was slow to respond to complaints, disputed findings, and lost public trust. In phase 2 from 2016 onward, the DEQ hired a PR firm, established clear communication channels, and began rebuilding trust through community programs. While making progress, the water crisis continues and the DEQ still works to fully regain public confidence in the state environmental agency.
Story OutlineExposition when we learn important background info.docxrjoseph5
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Story Outline
Exposition: when we learn important background information about the protagonist (the main character) and their ânormalâ life. (Youâre âexposingâ the reader to the back story.)
Characters: the characters involved in the story include the media, the public (the people living in the Flint in Genesee, Michigan), and authorities (the United States Environmental Protection Agency).
Setting: the flint water crisis hit the city of Flint in Genesee, Michigan and started in April 2014. This is after the authorities decided to change the supply of drinking water from Detroit system to Flint system in an effort to save on costs.
Basic Situation: the water crisis at flint resulted from poor assessment and decision making by the local water authorities. The water was inadequately treated and tested, leading to numerous health issues because of its poor quality and contamination.
Conflict: the conflict started when the authorities shifted the source of water supply to the city, thus exposing thousands of residents to lead poisoning from the discolored, foul-smelling, and off-tasting water that caused hair loss, skin rashes, and itchy skin to its users for several months. Despite numerous reports and coverage by news agencies such as the Detroit Free Press, MLive, and independent reporters, authorities largely ignored the public outcry.
Rising Action: sequence of events that happen because of the conflict. They usually get more intense over time.
⢠People started complaining that the water smells like rotten eggs, is brown, and tastes funny.
⢠people started noticing the effects of consuming the poisoned water. Some of the effects included hair loss, skin rashes, and itchy skin to its users for several months.
⢠the editorial board of the Detroit Free Press ran a report on October 8, 2015 showing how the government had failed to curb the water crisis
⢠Several other media houses run stories showing the failure by government to address the issue
⢠the authorities deny claims that the water is contaminated and assures the public that it is safe for consumption.
Climax: a pediatrician releases a frightening report regarding the impact of the contaminated water on children. This is after carrying out some blood tests on the communityâs children.
Falling Action: the events after the climax (usually quicker than the rising action).
⢠The governor of Michigan calls for a crisis meeting.
⢠Authorities start brainstorming for ideas on what should be done to solve the problem and save the situation.
⢠The government, with the help of other organizations, starts distributing bottled water that is safe for drinking and supplies lead filters across the country.
Resolution: the governor of Michigan requests legislators to allocate the state funds which will be used to change the cityâs water supply back to Lake Huron just like it was the case before the crisis set in.
Title: Flint Water Crisis and Water Safety Regulation
Characters
Char.
Nonprofits in the San Francisco Bay Area have long struggled to find and keep affordable space in the regionâs red-hot real estate market. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new array of space challenges for nonprofits. Nonprofits now face new challenges - renegotiating leases, shedding unused space, adapting spaces to meet physical distancing requirements, even expanding to meet increased demand for services. Even without the staggering economic consequences of the pandemic, the future of nonprofit workspace is in flux as many nonprofits have moved to remote working arrangements and are considering alternatives to the future of workspace.
In late 2020, in collaboration with Community Vision and the Nonprofit Displacement Project, NCG commissioned a survey to better understand how COVID-19 has impacted the operations and workspace needs of Bay Area nonprofits. NCG engaged Harder+Company Community Research to design and conduct the survey, which explored 3 core areas: how the pandemic has impacted Bay Area nonprofitsâ programming and operations; impending eviction and financial concerns; and nonprofitsâ future workspace plans. These findings will inform NCG and their partners as they develop strategies to support nonprofits in their current and future workspace needs.
The document provides an introduction to the Defense Manufacturing Assistance Program (DMAP) which works with communities severely affected by Department of Defense downsizing to develop recovery strategies. It then analyzes Muskegon County, Michigan which has experienced job losses due to reduced defense contracts, noting its population, housing, poverty rates, and other demographic data to understand the economic challenges it faces. DMAP will use this community assessment to create an advisory plan to help Muskegon County diversify its economy and promote future growth.
This document discusses California's homelessness crisis and efforts to address it using the Housing First model. It finds that while California has invested billions in Housing First, homelessness has increased, unlike in Houston which has reduced homelessness by over 50% through more effective coordination and a greater housing supply. The document recommends California centralize coordination, permanently fund programs, reform zoning to increase housing, and enforce Housing First compliance to better emulate Houston's success.
Ensuring environmental stability is necessary for humanity and all life on Earth. The author argues that clean drinking water should be a basic human right everywhere. While some progress has been made in providing access to clean water, places like Flint, Michigan still lack this basic necessity. As individuals, voting for representatives who prioritize environmental issues and donating to relevant organizations can help contribute to stability. Social media allows people to raise awareness of environmental problems and alert others to disasters through hashtags and geotagging.
The document discusses the need for reform in the water and sanitation sector. It argues that the current approach focuses too much on charity rather than development, leading to high rates of project failure. Communities are expected to contribute through "sweat equity" but this does not create a sense of ownership and ensure long-term success. The CEO of Water For People calls for a new partnership between philanthropists and development agencies that leverages donations to instill financial responsibility in communities and governments. He advocates for new metrics that assess long-term functionality and sustainability beyond just counting initial access.
The document summarizes community issues related to population growth and affordable housing in San Diego, California. It discusses how population growth of 18% by 2050 and economic globalization have strained affordable housing development. Advocacy efforts have led to programs that developed over 15,000 affordable housing units and helped over 40,000 individuals. Current strategies include expanding permanent supportive housing and strengthening partnerships between organizations.
A Presentation on "NGO's Role in Disaster Management" Presented by Mr. Deepak...CDRN
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A Presentation on "NGO's Role in Disaster Management" Presented by Mr. Deepak Bharti, Secretary - Samajik Shaikshanik Vikas Kendra (SSVK ) at Workshop on Preparedness & Response for Emergencies and Times of Natural Disaster, Patna, Bihar - India, Organised By :-Corporate Disaster Resource Network, For Report please go to :-http://www.cdrn.org.in"
Unforgettable Rough Draft Essay ~ Thatsnotus. Rough Draft Example For Kids : Essay Draft â English Composition 1 / I .... Rough Draft Example - 023 Rough Draft Essay Example Narrative High .... How to write a rough draft research paper. Rough Draft Examples : Rough Draft Examples : Revising and Editing the .... Writing Mini Lesson #22- Writing a Rough Draft for a Narrative Essay .... Rough draft essay examples - needwriters.x.fc2.com. How To Write A Rough Draft Essay â Telegraph. 010 Essay Rough Draft Example For English Maxresde Persuasive Outline .... Rethinking the Rough Draft: A Simple Strategy that Leads to Better .... Rough Draft Examples / College Essay Rough Draft Example - Essay .... What Does A Rough Draft Essay Look Like | Sitedoct.org. Rough Draft Examples - Writing Mini Lesson 22 Writing A Rough Draft For .... 009 Essay Example Rough Draft ~ Thatsnotus. Rough draft essay - baseballmoli. Rough Draft Examples - Rough Draft Essay Example Akcja Grecja Blog .... Rough Draft Examples : Essay Rough Draft Examples - Section 3.2 .... Rough Draft Paper Examples / How To Write A Killer Research Paper Even .... Rough Draft Example For Kids - Research Paper Rough Draft Examples .... Rough Draft Example Of A Draft Essay - Rick James.
Perception of Affordable Housing in Brunswick CountyOLIVIA DORSEY
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This document provides a summary of a study on perceptions of affordable housing in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The study found that the majority (80.5%) of survey respondents believe there is a need for more affordable housing in the county. Common supported solutions included having the county work with the private sector to develop affordable housing (62.4%), having non-profits develop affordable housing (35.6%), and requiring a percentage of units in new developments be affordable (32.3%). The document notes that while Brunswick County is considered affluent, 15.7% of residents live in poverty. It recommends establishing a housing task force to create a strategic plan to develop more affordable housing options through various means like public-private partnerships
Abasse Twalal Harouna: The Maestro of Digital Marketing - His Journey and Ach...Abasse Twalal Harouna
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Abasse Twalal Harouna, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in the digital marketing industry, has made significant strides in empowering small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to achieve remarkable growth. With a career marked by numerous accolades and a trail of success stories, Harouna's journey from a passionate student of marketing to a renowned digital marketing expert is both inspiring and instructive.
Abasse Twalal Harounaâs early life laid a strong foundation for his future success. Born and raised in a family that highly valued education and innovation, Harouna was encouraged to pursue his interests from a young age. This supportive environment fueled his passion for technology and business, leading him to pursue higher education in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at a prestigious Canadian university. His academic background provided him with a comprehensive understanding of business principles and marketing strategies, setting the stage for his remarkable career.
Upon completing his degree, Abasse Twalal Harouna quickly recognized the transformative potential of digital marketing. He understood that the digital landscape was rapidly evolving and that businesses needed to adapt to remain competitive. With a clear vision, Harouna entered the digital marketing field, driven by a desire to help businesses grow through innovative online strategies. His early career was marked by hands-on experience with various digital marketing agencies, where he honed his skills in SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, and PPC advertising.
Abasse Twalal Harounaâs expertise spans multiple facets of digital marketing, making him a versatile and highly effective strategist. One of his key areas of specialization is Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Harouna understands that SEO is crucial for enhancing online visibility and driving organic traffic to websites. By employing advanced SEO techniques, such as thorough keyword research, on-page optimization, and building high-quality backlinks, Harouna ensures that his clients' websites rank high on search engine results pages (SERPs). This not only attracts more visitors but also improves the overall online presence of the businesses he works with.
Content marketing is another domain where Abasse Twalal Harouna excels. He firmly believes that content is king in the digital world and leverages it to create compelling, value-driven content that resonates with target audiences. From blog posts and articles to videos and infographics, Harounaâs content marketing strategies are designed to engage and educate potential customers. This approach not only drives brand awareness but also fosters customer loyalty, contributing to long-term business success.
In todayâs connected world, social media marketing is vital for brand promotion, and Abasse Twalal Harouna has mastered this art. He crafts tailored social media campaigns that enhance brand visibility and foster engagement.
Explore the key differences between silicone sponge rubber and foam rubber in this comprehensive presentation. Learn about their unique properties, manufacturing processes, and applications across various industries. Discover how each material performs in terms of temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Gain insights from real-world case studies and make informed decisions for your projects.
2. 1
Farrow Capstone 2017
Executive Summary
Current Situation: Crossing Water is a volunteer nonprofit that is committed to providing
essential services, particularly water, to the residents of Flint, Michigan in the wake of the Flint
Michigan Water Crisis (The Crisis). Crossing Water teams are unaffiliated and unencumbered by
government officials, who have poor rapport with the community as many of the households feel
abandoned by government authorities (Adams, 2017). The nonprofit relies entirely on donations
and volunteer labor, so Crossing Water is actively searching for ways to increase funding and
their volunteer base. Crossing Waterâs communication channels are limited to free social media.
The nonprofit is attempting to apply for more grants, however most of the nonprofitsâ volunteers
are experienced in emergency response and social work, not public relations.
Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and other authorities are depicting the Crisis as a series of
mistakes that have since been solved (Fonger, 2017). This narrative, as well as the lack of
thorough coverage about The Crisis in the media, is jeopardizing Crossing Waterâs relevancy in
the disaster nonprofit sector. The households in Flint that need Crossing Waterâs help the most
are far from getting safe tap water, and will not be getting their corroded pipes replaced for
months, even years, from now. Crossing Waterâs dwindling resources and national attention of
The Crisis may compromise their mission in aiding these households in Flint.
The Solution: In 2017, Crossing Watersâ âTaking Real Action in Flintâ Campaign will build
awareness of the ongoing struggles of Flint residents and how Crossing Water is a trustworthy
source of aid to those in desperate need. This will be done by highlighting Crossing Waterâs
unique history to position the organization as a trustworthy lifeline to those who have lost safe
water and will face lifelong consequences to lead exposure.
By activating their empowering message to those who are intrigued at the growing national
movement of citizen action and volunteerism, Crossing Water can leverage their independence in
a tone consistent with their grassroots history. This is where âTaking Real Actionâ bridges social
media and positive societal change. Crossing Water can use the heightened media attention of
social inequality to individuals and foundations as a call to action for financial contributions or to
join their team. Foundations and individuals driven towards social justice can learn of what
Crossing Water encounters in their field work to Flint households and contribute financially
while sharing their story.
The key publics would certainly care about this organizationâs mission, but need to be aware of
Crossing Waterâs existence and activities. Because of Crossing Waters minimal communications
resources and budget, the campaign relies on free social media platforms, photos, and videos
featuring volunteer citizen advocates taking real action to connect technology with tangible
change. Provided that volunteers complete these campaign strategies, production costs will be
minimal. It is through these pro-bono donations from dedicated Crossing Watersâ staff that this
campaign can strengthen the nonprofitsâ operations.
3. 2
Farrow Capstone 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive SummaryâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ....âŚ...1
ContentsâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.2
BackgroundâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚ..âŚ.....âŚâŚâŚ3
SWOT AnalysisâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ...............âŚ.âŚ..9
Situation AnalysisâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...........âŚ..âŚ.âŚ...9
Problem StatementâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚ.âŚ.âŚ.9
GoalâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚ..âŚ.âŚ9
ObjectivesâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚ10
Key PublicsâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...10
Big IdeaâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚ..13
Brand PositioningâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚ..13
FramingâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ....âŚâŚ..14
MessagesâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚ.âŚâŚ.14
Strategies and TacticsâŚâŚ....âŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚ.....16
Future OpportunitiesâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚ......18
CalendarâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ.âŚâŚâŚ..âŚ19
BudgetâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...25
EvaluationâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ......âŚ..26
Creative MaterialsâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚ.......27
ReferencesâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚâŚ..33
Appendix 1âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ..âŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚ..39
The Flint Michigan Water Crisis in Detail
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Appendix 2âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ.âŚ..40
SWOT Analysis Graph
Appendix 3âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ...âŚ41
Focus Group with Veteran Volunteers and Recently Trained Volunteers
Appendix 4âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ...âŚ.42
Interview with Crossing Water Directors Michael Hood and Laurie Carpenter
Appendix 5âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ....âŚ43
In-Depth Interview with Crossing Water Veteran Dennis Atkinson
Appendix 6âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚ..âŚâŚ.44
Interview with Kristina Marchu, Development Associate, Sustainable Fisheries Partnership
Appendix 7âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ......âŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.45
Interview with Brittany Zeman, Global Communications and Philanthropy Officer, Relief
International
Appendix 8âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚ..45
Dispatch Day Notes
Appendix 9âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ.âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚ....âŚâŚâŚ.46
Interview with Director Liz Harp, Documentary Filmmaker for Pantsuit Nation
Appendix 10âŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚâŚ...âŚâŚâŚ46
Summary of Survey Sent to Crossing Water Mailing List
4. 3
Farrow Capstone 2017
Background
External Environment
The Flint Michigan Water Crisis: (The Crisis)
The City of Flint, Michigan has been recovering from a disastrous series of events since 2014. In
a failed attempt at cutting costs by changing the cityâs drinking water source from Detroit to the
Flint River, emergency managers and water engineers failed to take proper corrosion control
measures, triggering a chemical reaction that polluted the water system with lead. These resulted
in lead poisoning and the death of 12 people from Legionnairesâ disease. Two emergency
managers have been charged with felonies (Stack, 2017).
Flintâs drinking water is now within safe federal standards as of early 2017, however filters are
still required. Many residents have found the filters to be delicate and unreliable (Edwards,
2017). There are an estimated 20,000 lead corroded water pipes in Flint and 6,000 pipes are
scheduled to be replaced by the end of 2017 (Stack, 2017). Flint residents are weary of
impromptu visits from unknown groups that do one-off door-to-door visits and then fail to follow
up on households. Many households fear looting and distrust city officials (Adams, 2017). These
residents are still struggling to pay high water bills and will lose access to door-to-door bottled
water and filters provided from the state starting in June 2017, causing further animosity between
residents and their government (Zaniewski, B. L., 2017). A deep distrust of government has
made Flint residents doubt the veracity of statements about water security, even if the water is
safe (Dennis, B., and Greeson, B., 2016).
On March 27, 2017, a civil lawsuit ensured that Michigan and the City of Flint would be
financially responsible for pipe replacement and has given $87,000,000 dollars in funding. Door
to door bottle and filter delivery service will not be paid for after June 2017. There is anger about
the time that it took for this lawsuit to conclude and the lack of comprehensive care for those
poisoned (Dupnack, 2017). As of April 2017, Flint still has more lead in its water systems than
98% of Michigan, and there is strong resentment about how Governor Rick Snyder is portraying
the Crisis as a success story in public health. This is leading to the false assumption that the
Crisis is now solved (Fonger, 2017).
To See a Detailed Explanation of the Flint Michigan Water Crisis, Please Refer to Appendix 1
Flint, Michigan
Flint Michigan has a high poverty rate- over half of the population lives on less than $24,000 a
year. The average household income is $55,775, and the official household poverty threshold is
$24,339 (Cuthbertson, C. A., Newkirk, C., Ilardo, J., Loveridge, S., and Skidmore, M., 2016).
Michigan State, specifically the Detroit area, has the highest poverty rate of all densely populated
US cities (US Census Bureau, 2017). Many companies and residents left after the 2008
recession, leaving residents with a low opinion of businesses that moved (Dennis, B., and
Greeson, B., 2016). Aging infrastructure for post-industrial cities has shown patterns of
compromised utilities, while racial and income inequality is prevalent (Dennis, B., and Greeson,
B. 2016).
5. 4
Farrow Capstone 2017
Industry
Disaster Relief Nonprofits
Crossing Water is volunteer run and all funds go directly to operating costs. Like many disaster
relief nonprofits, Crossing Water is heavily dependent on individual giving and competitive with
similar organizations, whether they are addressing the same problem or another crisis entirely.
(Schimmelpfennig, 2011). The Red Cross and the Michigan State Police have created a 211
hotline for residents in dire need of water delivered to their houses, however reports have
indicated that the system is facing a lack of resources and are not responding to all water requests
in a timely manner. To compensate, Crossing Water has delivered cases of water to the houses.
The misallocation of efforts has contributed to confusion about how Flintâs residents are getting
safe water (Farrow, Appendix 4, 2017).
A house in Flint with a collapsed roof. Many neighborhoods have rows of houses with collapsed
roofs or are burnt to the frame. Some of these houses are still inhabited, but overlooked by many
aid organizations.
Nonprofits in this field have large amounts of attention based on media reports, but funds and
interest are fleeting once the crisis is out of the news and social media. Similar examples are seen
in crises like Hurricane Sandy, Hurricane Katrina, and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, where on
the ground accounts fueled discourse and storytelling so the audience could empathize with those
affected (Stewart, M. C., and Gail Wilson, B. 2016, Brengarth, L., and Mujkic, E. 2016, Gurman,
T. A., and Ellenberger, N., 2015).
Disasters that are poorly handled from the authorities are related to distrust in government,
compromised infrastructure safety, and inequality (McCoy, T., 2015). However, Flintâs crisis
was man made, not a natural disaster, which makes Crossing Waterâs role unique from
hurricanes and earthquakes.
Charitable Giving
Giving USAâs 2016 Annual Report explains that to maintain an engaged donor base, it is
necessary to keep contributors updated on the nonprofitsâ activities and to keep messages in
specific, tangible amounts. A good example would be to explain that $20 in donations can give a
family an immediate benefit of a monthsâ worth of water. Giving contribution funds in large,
abstract amounts is vague and off-putting to donors (Joslyn, 2016). There has been a call by
contributors and grant giving foundations for improved communication and disclosure about
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where and how donations are spent- nonprofits have since increased their transparency on
operations (Giving USA 2016).
Client: Crossing Water started in 2013 by Michael Hood, a wilderness survival expert, in
response to water safety concerns after Flint city officials cancelled its water contract with
Detroit. The co-directors Michael Hood and Laurie Carpenter are former Emergency Medical
Technicians and social workers who have designed a comprehensive training program for
volunteers. Crossing Water provides basic needs such as food and clothing, as well as child,
medical, and home repair services. To implement their volunteers and supplies, the organization
has designed a comprehensive rapid response dispatch system, which includes logistics for
public health emergencies.
Every training session and dispatch day ends with a debriefing for the response teams. In an
interview, Michael Hood explained that it is essential for the volunteers to decompress what they
have seen in the field. Michael Hood strongly advocates these support sessions to avoid burnout
for volunteers who have encountered with social work and emergency response. These sessions
help both the volunteers alleviate stressors from what they may have experienced and helps the
leadership get a better picture of what conditions in the field are like. (Farrow, Appendix 3,
2017).
Service: Crossing Water specializes in dispatching disaster relieve to vulnerable communities
with compromised water, specifically in Flint Michigan. Multiple Crossing Water documents
have been used in lawsuits to support the case that resources from state and federal agencies are
not being distributed to severely impoverished homes in dangerous neighborhoods.
Many houses in Flint look abandoned and uninhabitable, so organizations like the Red Cross are
not visiting these homes. However, Crossing Water teams have found people living in these
homes and have given them essential items (Adams, 2017, and Farrow, Appendix 4 and 5, 2017).
Crossing Water has been mindful not to publically disavow law enforcement and other
government organizations, however these sentiments have been insinuated in multiple online
posts.
Crossing Watersâ financial resources are dwarfed by these government agencies. Currently the
nonprofit has only raised $22,570 on Crowdrise in April 2017. There has been no follow up to
individual contributors through their crowd funding account. Based on the resources and labor
accessible to Crossing Water, there is limited capability to implement a full communications
overhaul. However, the organization recognizes the importance of using a reinvigorated and
streamlined communications plan to stakeholders so additional funding can be accessed.
Water hording from concern about the long-term safety of the water has caused houses to
collapse from the weight of bottled water stored in homes. Crossing Water has been trying to
find a way to improve trust with the community and government to reduce water hording, but
residents are still maintaining stockpiles (Pellicer and Judge, 2017). No posts on social media can
contain confidential information about Flint residents out of respect and privacy.
Promotions: The predominant communications promotions that Crossing Water implements are
about crisis communications, such as how to avoid lead poisoning, as well as public education
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about current lawsuits involving The Crisis. There has been a consistent campaign encouraging
Flint residents to rely on filters, not bottled water, until pipes are completely repaired. This
matches Michiganâs goal to pay back infrastructure projects by residents using the utilities and in
turn paying bills (Sanchez, 2017).
Crossing Water leadership will be emulating Virginia Tech Professor Marc Edwardsâ emerging
educational campaign about identifying when tap water is dangerous to consume. Marc Edwards
has garnered international acclaim and was named one of Time 100âs Pioneers in 2016 and a
Time Person of the Year finalist (Lutz, 2016). Crossing Watersâ leadership will be meeting with
Professor Edwards at his laboratory in May 2017, which can give the nonprofit an opportunity to
increase their legitimacy.
Previous campaigns include 22 billboards displayed throughout the Flint area in English and
Spanish, as well as PSAs on local radio and TV stations. There is a common misunderstanding
with immigrants from Spanish speaking countries that if water is boiled, it is safe. This applies to
some bacteria, not lead (Zarowny 2016). To address this barrier, Crossing Water made all
materials in both English and Spanish. The nonprofit distributed 15,000 flyers in low-income
neighborhoods to educate people about lead contamination and available resources- filters are
unfamiliar to many in Michigan, particularly the elderly, according to observations from
response teams (Farrow, Appendix 3, 2017).
The lack of comprehensive water safety to houses that are dilapidated is rarely explained in the
news, which can lead to the false assumption that lead pipes are not as severe of an issue as it
still is. (Edwards 2017) Some, but not all, of Crossing Watersâ emergency PSAs have little to no
information about the organization itself. This is a key opportunity to encourage the audience to
learn more about Crossing Water and perhaps contribute to it and get media exposure. Crossing
Waterâs billboards are featured in news articles (Zarowny 2016).
Market share: As of April 2016, Crossing Water relies entirely on individual donations from its
crowd funding site. While grants have been given to Crossing Water in the past 7 months
reaching over $35,000, the Internal Revenue Service has not granted the organization a tax
exempt 501c3 status to completely accept these funds. The response time for determination
letters can range anywhere from two to nine months, and Crossing Water sent in their application
forms in February 2017.
The most predominant bottled water donations to the city of Flint have been contributed from
The Mott Foundation and General Motors Foundation, which have reported in-kind contributions
of $610,000 and $3,000,000 respectively. A GuideStar report notes Greater Flint Health
Coalition and United Way of Genesee are the two largest nonprofits that provide health services
to Flint residents and have assets of $1,000,000 and $8,800,000 dollars respectively. These
figures make Crossing Water a very small player in the Flint Michigan Water Crisis. It is
important to note the upcoming funds from a court mandate that state and local government must
contribute over $87,000,000 to the water rehabilitation program.
Competition: There have been multiple government organizations and humanitarian
organizations, specifically the Red Cross, US Army, and National Guard, that have established
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Points of Distribution (PODs) for free water. However, the National Guard left POD
maintenance to state and local government in May 2016 (Adams, 2016). The Flint Sherriffâs
office is being relied upon to operate a 211 service to give water to civilians, however multiple
Crossing Water documents indicate that this 211 system is unreliable and slow to households
facing dire water shortages (Farrow, Appendix 4, 2017).
Genessee Health Systems is the biggest medical provider in the area, but unlike Crossing Water,
does not deploy staff to the field. This health provider has acquired much of the funds towards
Flintâs public health needs, but dedicated new funds to internal administrative operations, not
house calls (Farrow, Appendix 4, 2017). This is a key differentiator that can be addressed when
reaching out to key publics. Genessee Health Systems has an IRS 501c3 status and an entry in
Guidestar. Crossing Water has neither of these elements.
Resources: Intervening publics include fellow individual contributors, previous volunteers, and
activist organizations. The most notable trend for Crossing Water to consider when identifying
intervening publics is the value of peers. As will be discussed in Key Publics, the importance of
individuals vouching for a cause or event by sharing on social media has been a growing trend.
A key opinion leader that has found an interest in Crossing Water is the Facebook based, Hillary
Clinton activist organization Pantsuit Nation. Pantsuit Nation sees Crossing Water as a part of
the growing trend of humanitarian activism after the 2016 election (Farrow, Appendix 9, 2017).
Pantsuit Nation will be featuring Crossing Water in their online documentary series about
volunteerism and social change in America. As of April 2017, there has been no posting of
Pantsuit Nationâs video interviews of the Crossing Water leadership and volunteers, which was
shot February 25, 2017. Pantsuit nation has approximately four million Facebook members
(Desmond-Harris 2016).
Current resources that can be leveraged are the efficiency of Crossing Waterâs âdollars to
services,â which are dedicated entirely towards operational costs for emergency equipment and
distributing supplies. Communication costs need to be kept to a bare minimum, as most public
speaking events are paid for out-of-pocket by the Directors. Crossing Water stores equipment
and water throughout Flint with the help of neighbors, however most gear and its dispatch center
is held in Methodist Westwood Heights Church. The facilities boast two large floors with
multiple community rooms and storage. Dispatch days are very busy at the dispatch center, but it
is an impressive sight to see.
Market research:
Demographics: A comprehensive focus group was conducted on February 25, 2017 and
incorporates two key publics of individual contributors and volunteers that already exist in
Crossing Waterâs database. 82% of the volunteers in Crossing Waterâs list serve are in social
work. Of those in social work, 17% are retired, 14% are professional social service workers that
are employed outside of Flint, 60% are in undergraduate programs that major on social service
work, and 7% are in graduate programs of the same degree. The other 18% of the volunteers
classify themselves as engineers or liberal arts students, as well as other miscellaneous
professions. Survey respondents reflected these demographics as well. Approximately 80% of
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the respondents are female, and a connection to a family, friend, or social workers association
were the leading reasons why the respondent was familiar with Crossing Water.
Psychographics: The independent focus group conducted shows that the predominant catalyst
for volunteers to sign up for response teams was a need to take action against news reports of
poverty and income inequality for vulnerable communities. Many talked fervently about their
concern about possible public policy changes because of the 2016 election on local, state, and
federal levels. Most are closely attuned to political news and consider themselves progressives.
Veteran volunteers concurred in the focus group that there is a physical and psychological toll to
visiting Flint homes. However, the reason why veterans return to volunteer is the altruistic and
immediate sense that they are helping alleviate suffering from people that were âwrongedâ by the
institutions that were supposed to provide basic services. Similar opinions were reflected in
online surveys (Farrow, Appendix 3 and 10, 2017).
Information Sources and Preferred Media Channels: Crossing Water volunteers and individual
donors have gotten most of their information about events and Flint news from the organizationâs
Facebook page. Some of the older volunteers have cited that the only reason they got a Facebook
account was to keep up to date on Crossing Water activities (Farrow, Appendix 3, 2017).
Because of the limited experience and resources Crossing Water leadership has for social media,
the organization prefers to keep only its Facebook account updated. All key publics want to see a
maximum return of their contributions by seeing a disclosure of how cost effective the
organization is. (Farrow, Appendix 6 and 7, Faulk, L, and Ashley, S. 2014).
There is a secret Facebook group that volunteer veterans use to communicate with Crossing
Water leadership. This network is specifically used for coordinating about dispatch logistics,
including where new shipments of materials will be stored. Because of concerns about looting in
the Flint area and the subject matter of field operations, this group is kept to a minimal amount of
members.
Opinions about Crossing Water: Crossing Water is not well known outside of the Flint area. The
organization and its leadership is not explicitly referenced in the media, even though the Crisis is
reported on in national and international news. Most news sources do not have extensive
coverage detailing ground reports from Flint, as most national news organizations do not have
full time journalists in the Flint region (Smolkin, 2009). Many would not even have the chance to
know about Crossing Water, let alone the extreme conditions that Flint residents are
experiencing even after the Crisisâ lawsuit concluded in late March 2018.
Many Americans are unaware of how fragile water infrastructure can be, or how much water an
average household needs per day (Bump, 2017). Large media organizations such as USA Today
and The Daily Show have featured the tenuous status of lead in Americaâs water systems and
accentuate the need for civilians to test and identify water independently from government.
(Ungar, 2016, and Noah, 2017). However, most news stories do not provide a specific call to
action for aiding or connecting civilians to volunteer or donate to organizations such as Crossing
Water.
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SWOT Analysis: Crossing Watersâ leading challenges with reaching potential volunteers,
contributors, and foundations are the limited resources that the nonprofit has at their disposal to
break through the misconception that The Crisis has been solved. Disasters have a very short
news lifespan, and there are few media outlets that focus in detail about Flintâs most vulnerable.
Because of the minimal resources that the leadership has at their disposal and the high risk
activities that Crossing Water teams face, the directors are dedicated to the operations, not the
communications of the program. Requests for money are also problematic for individuals and
foundations who require the disclosure of financial activity of a nonprofit and assurances that
they are going to use resources in a legitimate manner.
To See a Detailed SWOT Analysis Graph, Please Refer to Appendix 2
Situation Analysis: Crossing Water has a steadfast volunteer base and is addressing water
infrastructure, a concern that many other American cities have. Crossing Waterâs mission is
connected to a growing national trend of citizen action and volunteerism and wants to be a part
of this movement. The nonprofit understands that their outreach needs to be improved, but
resources are limited and the topics they address are sensitive. By not designing a comprehensive
understanding of what current volunteers, previous individual donors, and foundations are
looking for in nonprofit organizations, Crossing Water may miss key opportunities to reach their
audiences and give them the most effective story.
Crossing Water wants to expand their reach in public outreach and education about safe tap
water in American areas that are prone to lead corrosion, but the organization needs to solidify
their base in Flint right now. Crossing Water does not get large emergency funds from the
federal or state government, unlike established mental health systems run by the state like
Genessee Health Systems- the organization needs to leverage their work to the necessary
audiences to ensure they are seen as unique and essential in their mission statement. Crossing
Water does not have a formal nonprofit account, whether it is from Guidestar or Charity
Navigator. These disclosure databases could increase visibility and legitimacy of the
organization.
Problem Statement: Citizens on a local and national level are unaware of Crossing Watersâ role
in aiding the residents of Flint after the citiesâ water crisis. If Crossing Watersâ lack of public
awareness is not addressed, the organization cannot maintain operations from lack of finances
and a skilled volunteer base.
Goal: Build awareness of Crossing Waterâs mission to help Flint residents and acquire a
sustainable level of private financial support and skilled volunteer base, which will fulfill the
organizationsâ operational needs.
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Objectives:
1) Raise awareness about Crossing Waterâs comprehensive Rapid Response Team training
and field work among social service schools by 15% in fiscal year 2017.
2) Raise awareness about Crossing Waterâs role in the Flint Water Crisis to current
individual contributors by 25% by fiscal year 2017.
3) Increase brand awareness and credibility among grant giving foundations by 15% by the
end of fiscal year 2017.
Cases of water loaded up in the back of the researchersâ car for distribution to six Flint
households. There were over 96 gallons of packed, weighing over 800 pounds.
Key Publics:
In all Key Publics: There has been a nationwide sentiment of dismay about the loss of clean
water in The Crisis. A feeling of collective shock about how access to safe water in America can
be so easily compromised, indicating that all key publics are interested in learning more about
lead poisoning nationwide (Edwards, 2016). There is a lack of awareness of how often
Americans take safe tap water for granted, how much is needed in each household per day, and
how challenging it can be to rely on filters and bottled water. A crate of bottled water is
approximately 30 pounds, and it is even more logistically challenging for the disabled and
homebound to get safe water (Bump, 2016, and Edwards, 2016).
Scandals from Wounded Warrior and American Red Cross have highlighted the importance for
disclosure in financial activity. Calls for highly efficient operations with minimal overhead
reflect the barebones approach that Crossing Water implements (Grassley, 2015 and Cavna, M.,
2016). Both volunteers and individual donors are happy to donate to Crossing Water, however as
reflected in Appendixes 3 and 10, the subjects were interested in donating after the key publics
had a basic understanding of what Crossing Waterâs role is in The Crisis.
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As referenced in the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, there is a reduced perception of fairness,
and that âthe systemâ is not going to enforce justice. This is reflective of Crossing Waterâs work
with families who have not received aid from the Red Cross or National Guard. The government
sector and government officials are seen as least credible, which is applicable to distrust in
Michigan officials in the Flint Water Crisis. The anti-establishment sentiments from the Edelman
Trust Barometer reflects similar trends in the mediums and channels Americans prefer to get
their information, because the survey found that the highest credibility of communication is
from peer-to-peer from friends and family members, which matches Crossing Watersâ citizen
advocacy. Traditional media has lost a significant amount of trust. 59% of Edelman Trust
Barometer respondents prefer a search engine over a human editor, indicating that nonprofit
directory listings will be helpful for grant applications and individual contributions.
There is a broad call to action in social media about income, environmental, racial, public health
crisis and the need to take action and to finance those who are able to make a change to alleviate
inequality in America (Piven, 2017). There is a similar underlying momentum for citizen action
in reaction to crisesâ related to income inequality and water security. Survey respondents and
focus group members see Crossing Water as an example of an organization empowering citizens
to participate take action against inequality (Greene, D., and Inskeep, S. 2017, and Covert, B.
2016).
Volunteers to Aid in Crossing Water Field Operations
1) Motivating Self-Interests: Concern over public health and the welfare of Flint residents,
especially the most vulnerable, and the desire to take action in the community, as well as
professional and academic experience.
2) Relationship to Crossing Water/The Crisis: Familiarity with Michigan and the
economic turmoil Flint has been facing, as well as a connection to social work and
environmental challenges.
3) Influencers: Crossing Water leadership, fellow volunteers, Flint residents, social
workersâ associations and schools advocating for volunteer work, friends.
4) Channels: Crossing Water Facebook posts, local and national media, family and friends,
opinion leaders, academia.
There are a wide variety of skill sets that both veteran and new volunteers provide Crossing
Water, from engineers to Michigan residents, but most are from the social service background or
study social service in graduate and undergraduate school. This indicates that anyone can help,
even if it administrative. The volunteers that are âveteransâ and the rotating groups of visiting
teams of social workers are representative of the social worker workforce as a whole. The
Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that 82% of social workers are female, and predominantly
white. While the independent survey conducted by Crossing Water did not ask for ethnicity,
results indicated that 80% of volunteers are female.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the demand of social workers will increase in the next ten
years, and is driven by the increased need for healthcare and social services. Candidates with a
masterâs degree and licensure have the advantage when being hired, and require completing a
practicum or internship. Crossing Waterâs response teams have required training for fieldwork
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that is in alignment with social service employees. Many of the reviews on Crossing Waterâs
Facebook account are from social service graduate and undergraduate students.
There is an increased interest in contributing diverse, valuable skills pro-bono, from legal advice
to fundraisers from hair stylists. This interest is correlated with the 2016 United States election,
in which many volunteers sought to take action in the community and not passively read about
political problems on social media. Examples can be seen in the Womenâs March in January
2017 (Cornish, 2017, and Lithwick, 2017).
Based on primary research interviews with Crossing Water leadership, volunteers are interested
in social justice, specifically in how to give immediate aid to those who have been lost in the
cracks of the Red Cross or National Guard. (Farrow, Appendix 3, 2017). All volunteers are
required to complete extensive training about water filtration safety and identifying dangerous
circumstances while in the field. This can be of particular interest to those who are interested in
taking action in âuncharted areasâ where standard volunteerism cannot give an immediate sense
of need and urgency to societal problems in America (Kamenetz, A. 2017).
Online Individual Contributions to Crossing Water
1) Motivating Self-Interests: Contributors had distrust over whether their financial aid was
going to the residents of Flint that were not being helped by traditional big nonprofits and
government organizations. Crossing Water is volunteer led and grassroots based, so they
have more confidence that the organization is reliably advocating for Flint residents.
Many survey respondents cite concern about lead poisoning as an ongoing nationwide
public health crisis.
2) Relationship to Crossing Water/The Crisis: Dismay over the systematic failure of
public health and economic support for the needy.
3) Influencers: Crossing Water leadership, family and friends, traditional media, social
media, sites concentrating on humanitarian and environmental issues.
4) Channels: Crossing Water Facebook posts, local and national media, family and friends.
Most individual contributions to Crossing Water strongly align with a progressive agenda that
correlates with alleviating what has been called âinjustice, pain and sufferingâ to impoverished
communities according to Crossing Waterâs online donation records. Individual contributions
range from $10 to $250 and are commonly given in memoriam to a Flint resident or a child who
has been exposed to lead. Many individual contributors expressed a desire to financially support
Crossing Water volunteers because they were physically unable to help, or they were too far
away from Flint to make deployments. Individual contributors were interested in learning more
about how their financial support is going back into the Flint community. Several comments
from contributors asked for Crossing Water leadership to empower the nonprofitsâ online
followers to mobilize politically.
Humanitarian Focused Charitable Giving Foundations and Organizations
1) Motivating Self-Interests: The desire to advance their foundationâs goals and mission,
generally in a humanitarian and environmental way. The foundation wants assurances
that any grant money is effectively implemented by the nonprofit. A key reason why a
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foundation approves grants is if the nonprofit is able to carry out operations that the
foundation does not have the expertise to implement on their own.
2) Relationship to Crossing Water/The Crisis: Familiarity with environmental and public
health sciences, generally when confirming that Crossing Water is a legitimate and
reliable organization to contribute money to.
3) Influencers: Independent reports about fiscal responsibility, academic journals, peers,
research through the required disclosure forms a nonprofit submits, history of effective
yields, experts.
4) Channels: Documentations from both the nonprofit and independent verification of the
nonprofit through official documentation from charity sites, academic journals focusing
on philanthropy, news sites focusing on humanitarian and environmental justice.
According to secondary research and interviews with philanthropic experts, most foundations are
using their own independent research to confirm that their funds will be put to the highest return
on social investment (Farrow, Appendix 6 and 7, 2017). Foundation researchers are looking for
financial and operational stability and reliability, as well as responsiveness to the publics that the
nonprofit is serving (Faulk, L., and Ashley, S., 2014). This can work to Crossing Watersâ
advantage, as the organization has a strong rapport with both the residents of Flint, but the
volunteers that compromise it. Foundation researchers are interested in seeing the nonprofitsâ
intent strongly matching and advancing their own missions (Mann, V. J. 2015). Financial and
social components of the applicant are key, and secondary research indicates that if financial
stability in an application is not an option, foundations will also value a strong probability of
social impact (Epstein, M. J., Yuthas, K., p 39, 2014).
Big Idea: Crossing Water has a unique history of a grassroots volunteer organization that has
consistently provided care and advocacy for all Flint residents. The organizationâs empowering
story of taking citizen action to help others will resonate with individuals and organizations who
are driven by social justice.
âClicking âLikeâ wonât change anything.
Take real action in Flint by helping Crossing Water.â
Strategy: Promote Crossing Water as an organization that represents socially active citizens.
Brand Positioning: Those who are interested in volunteering in a social service and public
health perspective are politically engaged and altruistic. Crossing Water is unknown to many
outside of the Flint region, especially outside of the field of social workers. However, those who
have contributed outside of the area are quick to be convinced that the grassroots organization
reliably advocates and cares for the underserved residents of Flint once Crossing Watersâ
mission is explained.
Crossing Water wants both individuals who can contribute their time or money and foundations
to choose to support their volunteer efforts and gain a comprehensive understanding of what is
happening in Flint. A key message Crossing Water wants to get across is the households of Flint
that have little to no resources coming to their aid for the immediate future and the organization
is here for these residents.
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Framing: Use the framework of News to inspire and inform those who are unaware of the
ongoing challenges Crossing Water is facing in Flint. By giving to Crossing Water, key publics
can do more than sign an online petition or hit âLike;â they can aid Flintâs most vulnerable.
Explain the Issues of how Crossing Water is directing essential needs, from food to medical
services, to the citizens of Flint.
Use the Attributes framework to differentiate Crossing Waterâs fieldwork and training from the
grassroots level from local and national aid organizations that are also addressing the Flint Water
Crisis. Crossing Waterâs comprehensive knowledge of lead poisoning in impoverished portions
of the United States is a program that can be emulated across the country to strengthen other
Foundationsâ mission statements.
Messages:
Volunteers to Aid in Crossing Water Field Operations:
Primary Message 1: Hear the call and join our movement: Crossing Water needs your valuable
knowledge to provide critical aid to the community of Flint, Michigan.
Secondary Message 1: Crossing Water deploys volunteers like you to the 100,000 homes of Flint
to provide essential items such as food and clean water while bringing the community together.
Secondary Message 2: In the wake of the Flint Michigan Water Crisis, the community has a
strong need for essential services, from plumbers and medical professionals to social workers.
Crossing Water is deploying Rapid Response Service Teams to 100,000 homes in Flint who need
you the most - will you join us?
Primary Message 2: What can you to fight injustice? Crossing Water trains and deploys
volunteers into the community of Flint, Michigan to distribute safe water filters, education, and
care to those who need it most.
Secondary Message 1: Flintâs Water Crisis is not over yet, and state emergency providers have
not reached some of Flintâs most vulnerable households. Crossing Water needs your help to give
essential services to those who need it most.
Secondary Message 2: You too can take real action by volunteering for Crossing Water, a
grassroots organization based in Flint to help alleviate those suffering from the Flint Water
Crisis. Your time and skills can help those in need.
Online Individual Contributions to Crossing Water:
Primary Message 1: Take action to right a wrong: Give to Crossing Water and help us provide
clean water and essential care to the citizens of Flint.
Secondary Message 1: Many of Flintâs residents have gone three years without safe water and it
will take at least two more years before Flint can drink from the tap. By donating Crossing
Water, you can show America what itâs like to see citizens take real action.
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Secondary Message 2: Crossing Water has an operations center that deploys essential medical
and technical services to those who need it most in Flint, Michigan. $10 will provide water to a
family for two days, $20 will provide clean water to a family for a month, $140 will provide
clean water to a household for a year, $1500 will provide an institutional filter to an organization
to support the drinking needs of a neighborhood.
Primary Message 2: Be a part of something real. By giving to Crossing Water, you are
supporting community leaders who provide safe water and essential services to Flintâs most
vulnerable.
Secondary Message 1: Many of Flintâs residents still do not have access to safe reliable water
from the tap and will not have their homes repaired for at least a year. Crossing Water has been
distributing water, filters, and other essential supplies for over two years and will be able to
sustain their operations with your financial help.
Secondary Message 2: Flintâs residents are relying on unreliable water filters and bottled water
for at least another year to dodge lead poisoning. Many of these residents are infirm and struggle
to get enough safe water to their homes, but Crossing Water gives safe water to these residents
through individual donations.
Humanitarian Focused Charitable Giving Foundations and Organizations:
Primary Message 1: Flintâs Water Crisis is far from over, and those suffering cannot wait.
Crossing Water is in need of grants to ensure that the most vulnerable are given drinkable water
for all residents and lead testing to provide reliable medical care.
Secondary Message 1: Crossing Waterâs grassroots Rapid Response Teams are given
comprehensive training to provide essential items and educational outreach to Flint households
who are still exposed to lead in their water. All proceeds go to operational costs to keep Crossing
Waterâs Teams deployed in the community.
Secondary Message 2: Crossing Water is going to the homes of Flint who are still exposed to
lead and advocating for families who have not received the comprehensive care they need.
Crossing Water always ensures that those who are the most vulnerable are represented and
respected.
Primary Message 2: Support a grassroots solution to a terrible crisis: Crossing Water is a
volunteer led nonprofit that is independent of political interests, and their top concern is those in
need.
Secondary Message 1: After the Flint Water Crisis, the residents of Flint have lost faith in their
government. Crossing Water is a grassroots organization that is free of any political agenda from
the government and exists to ensure that every household has safe water.
Secondary Message 2: Many of Flintâs houses are still reliant upon bottled water and have
limited resources and to provide safe water for their families. Crossing Water is providing
immediate care and resources to those who need it the most at the grassroots level.
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Strategies and Tactics:
*Note: Due to confidentiality requirements and security concerns, all posts would not be case-
specific to households that Crossing Water visits, nor will posts reveal where water storage sites
are.
Volunteers to Aid in Crossing Water Field Operations:
Strategy 1: Raise Michael Hoodâs awareness via Facebook and Twitter that Crossing Water is
seeking activist-minded students and professionals wanting to advance their experience and
accreditation for social work in Flint, Michigan.
Tactic 1: Create specific Facebook series about the training process and how it is used in
real scenarios. Ask that Crossing Water veteran volunteers repost to their social media
accounts.
Tactic 2: Create an E-Newsletter that highlights the backgrounds of Crossing Water
volunteers in social media posts and how they connect with the organizationâs mission.
Send to current and past volunteers and request that they forward the E-Newsletter to
their friends.
Tactic 3: Create engaging social media posts about what Crossing Water volunteers do in
their professional and educational work and how their volunteerism advances their goals-
Ask that Crossing Water veteran volunteers repost to their social media accounts.
Strategy 2: Showcase current Crossing Water volunteersâ sense of dedication and camaraderie
with other deployment team members to highlight potential volunteers of the opportunity to bond
with fellow grassroots activists.
Tactic 1: Post interviews highlighting the backgrounds of Crossing Water volunteers on
social media posts. Ask that Crossing Water veteran volunteers repost to their social
media accounts.
Tactic 2: Create an online series highlighting what brings veteran volunteers back to
dispatch team days. Accentuate that the work is hard, but rewarding. Ask that Crossing
Water veteran volunteers repost to their social media accounts.
Tactic 3: Create a video of Michael Hood explaining the work that Crossing Water
volunteers do before and after a dispatch day at the dispatch center. Highlight the work
that administrative and support staffâs work that is not house visitation but still essential.
Ask that Crossing Water veteran volunteers repost to their social media accounts.
Online Individual Contributions to Crossing Water
Strategy 1: Reinforce that there is still a dire need for Crossing Waterâs services to gain support
from individual contributors who may be unaware of the underserved residents in Flint who are
still at risk of lead poisoning.
Tactic 1: Create a factsheet featuring Crossing Water leadership highlighting how the
recently settled lawsuit is not going to be fully implemented for years in some Flint
neighborhoods and that their services are important now more than ever because the
lawsuit will cut funding to home delivery service. Ask that Crossing Water followers
repost to their social media accounts.
Tactic 2: Pitch to MLive an opportunity for Director Michael Hood to be interviewed by
journalist Ron Fonger to talk about the underserved houses in Flint who will not be
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getting access to safe water for over a year. Accentuate the story of Crossing Water
consistently helping households that have not seen any compensation from recent
lawsuits, and that Crossing Water is run by citizens and financed by donations.
Tactic 3: Select a volunteer to give a tour of Crossing Waterâs dispatch center to
showcase what items are directly distributed to homebound residents and how the
supplies are still sorely needed. Ask that Crossing Water followers repost the video to
their social media accounts.
Strategy 2: Raise awareness among individual contributors that Crossing Water is taking real
action to help right the wrongs in Flint, thereby encouraging individuals to contribute financially
so they too can enable positive change.
Tactic 1: Pitch to MLive that Crossing Water was featured in a Pantsuit Nation
documentary that was highlighting citizen action. Offer interview access with Crossing
Water leadership. Be sure to sync any multimedia with Crossing Watersâ social media
accounts.
Tactic 2: Create a factsheet that tells the story of how Crossing Water began and the
highlights of their recent successes and achievements in the past year. If possible, design
a timeline of Crossing Watersâ history.
Tactic 3: Create a graphics based factsheet that showcases the highly efficient ways
Crossing Water uses their resources and finances to ensure to online contributors that any
donations are going towards Flint residents. Repost to Facebook and feature in an E-
Newsletter and link Guide Star and Charity Navigator entries.
Charitable Giving Foundations and Organizations
Strategy 1: Convince grant giving foundations through increased visibility on nonprofit network
sites that Crossing Water is a legitimately established organization committed to effective
management of resources.
Tactic 1: Design a Guidestar entry page for Crossing Water to format the dollars to
services that Crossing Water has with minimal overhead. Feature information about
Crossing Watersâ use of specifically individual donations and in-kind donations from
volunteers, and how every helps.
Tactic 2: Apply for a nonprofit status on Charity Navigator in efforts to get a rating from
the website, which encourages transparency of the financial operations of cause
organizations.
Tactic 3: Design an annual report of the financial activity of Crossing Water for 2016.
Place links on Crossing Waterâs website and feature links on both Facebook profiles and
E-Newsletters.
Strategy 2: Showcase to grant giving foundations through external facing media that Crossing
Water has cultivated a rare rapport in the Flint Water Crisis and is advocating for underserved
homes.
Tactic 1: Feature in Crossing Waterâs annual report that the organization has been
consistently and reliably advocating for Flint households that have been forgotten in the
Flint Water Crisis. Have special posts of any upcoming progress with representatives in
lawsuits where Crossing Water has assisted in improving relations with officials and
residents.
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Tactic 2: Design an advocacy timeline about Crossing Water Leadershipâs evolution
about aiding underserved households in the field and through litigation and policy.
Specifically talk about the recent news that Michael Hood and Laurie Carpenter are now
in negotiations with the City of Flint and Michigan officials to implement better outreach
to all households impacted by lead.
Tactic 3:Highlight Crossing Waterâs appearance in documentaries from Pantsuit Nation
in a special post on the organizationâs Charity Navigator and Guidestar entry page when
the documentary is completed.
Future Opportunities
As of late April 2017, Crossing Water has still not received an acceptance letter from the IRS for
a tax-exempt status, however leadership meetings with pro-bono lawyers report that the process
is in the final stages. Should these efforts be successful, Crossing Water can benefit from
increased funds for a more robust communications campaign. Future potential progress, such as
a partnership with Marc Edwards about educational outreach and developments from future
lawsuits, are events that can be highlighted in 2017. The federal lawsuit that was concluded in
April 2017 is still in the preliminary stages for implementation, and can significantly impact
Crossing Watersâ mission. Should Crossing Water leadership find it prudent, Facebook ads and
official partnerships with social service schools in the Michigan area are additional opportunities
for this nonprofit to spread its message. However, this is only possible if Crossing Water has
bolstered their finances.
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Evaluation
1) Objective: Raise awareness about Crossing Waterâs comprehensive Rapid Response
Team training and field work among social service schools by 15% in fiscal year 2017.
Metrics:
o Pre-campaign awareness numbers vs. post-campaign awareness numbers
o Number of unique users via Facebook Analytics
o Social media impressions/ psychographics using analytical tools provided by
Facebook Analytics
Evaluation:
o Conduct pre/post campaign survey within the specified demographics to gather
awareness data and if users are considering to train and volunteer for Crossing
Water.
! Compare volunteer turnout before and after campaign implementation.
o Conduct digital/social media audits throughout the campaign to see if potential
volunteers are now considering training and volunteering for Crossing Water.
o Monitor Facebook reviews
2) Objective: Raise awareness about Crossing Waterâs role in the Flint Water Crisis to
current individual contributors by 25% by fiscal year 2017.
Metrics:
o Pre-campaign awareness numbers vs. post-campaign awareness numbers.
o Number of unique users via Facebook Analytics
o Social media impressions/ psychographics using analytical tools provided by
Facebook Analytics
o Impressions and psychographics using analytical tools from Guidestar and
Charity Navigator software.
o Monitor online comments on news articles pitched to MLive
Evaluation:
o Conduct pre/post campaign survey within the specified demographics to gather
awareness data and if users are considering contributing to Crossing Water.
o Conduct digital/social media audits throughout the campaign to see if potential
volunteers are now considering training and volunteering for Crossing Water.
o Number of referrals and shares on Guidestar, Charity Navigator, and Facebook
platforms.
o Tone of online comments on news articles pitched to MLive
3) Objective: Increase brand awareness and credibility among grant giving foundations by
15% by the end of fiscal year 2017.
Metrics:
o Pre-campaign awareness numbers vs. post-campaign awareness numbers.
o Impressions and psychographics using analytical tools from Guidestar and
Charity Navigator software.
o Monitor online comments on news articles pitched to MLive
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Evaluation:
o Number of referrals and shares on Guidestar, Charity Navigator, and Facebook
platforms.
o Conduct focus group with Crossing Water leadership in charge of grant writing to
see if this communications plan improved their outreach to foundations.
o Tone of online comments on news articles pitched to MLive
Creative Materials
Note: Exact numbers are still pending. The following are templates for possible final drafts.
1: Print and Online Brochure Materials for Volunteers and Individual Contributors: 3
Design Concepts
To feature quick facts about Crossing Waterâs Mission Statement, quick numbers about activity,
and how Crossing Water is funded.
Concept 1
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2: Social Media Post for Facebook
Followers on Public and Secret
Account
3: Volunteer Highlight Sample
for Facebook Post
Interview a volunteer and have
brief quotes about why they like
to return to Dispatch Days. Have
a direct link to Crossing Waterâs
site. Applicable for Volunteers
Strategy 2 Tactic 2.
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4: Crossing Water Programs for Foundations
Update with lawsuit details, if possible, as well as programs and partnerships. Applicable for
Foundations Strategy 2 Tactic 3
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Image and design credits: Crossing Water website, Canva images, all designed using Canva
Platform
All images of Flint, Michigan were taken by the author in February 2017.
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Appendices
Appendix 1
The Flint Michigan Water Crisis in Detail
Â
⢠The Crisis began after Flintâs water source was transferred from Detroit to the Flint River
to reduce costs, triggering lead contamination to Flint. (Michigan Civil Rights
Commission, 2017)
Â
⢠State provided bottled water in early 2015- Environmental Protection Agency confirms
high levels of lead in June 2015. (Michigan Civil Rights Commission, 2017)
Â
⢠Michigan government only issued states of emergency three months after independent
analysis found unsafe water in December 2015. U.S. federal emergency declared in
January 2016. (Edwards, 2016)
Â
⢠100,000 people have gone almost three years without access to safe water. (Berman, M.,
and Dennis, B, 2017)
Â
⢠There is no safe level of lead in water- exposure can cause rashes, baldness, miscarriage,
neurological damage, and is fatal at high levels. (Taylor, K, 2017)
⢠Children exposed to lead have increased risks of brain and nervous system damage,
development problems. Lead poisoning causes learning, behavior, hearing, and speech
problems that are permanent. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016)
⢠The crisis has caused a Legionariesâ outbreak, which spread to over 100 Flint residents
and caused 12 deaths. (Sanchez, 2017)
Â
⢠There are over 14 lawsuits at state, federal, and local levels addressing state officials and
businesses involved in the misconduct- the filers might not receive any compensation.
(Sanchez, 2017)
Â
⢠Michigan has been urged to spend $4 billion dollars a year to all infrastructure systems,
however the funding gap is largest in transportation. A call for federal funding has been
made, but is unlikely to close the budget gap significantly. (Bond Buyer, 2016)
o The proposed program to repair Michiganâs infrastructure costs $50,000,000,000;
Flint has received $400,000,000 in aid for infrastructure and health care programs.
(Scharping, 2017)
o Most additional financial resources will not be dedicated to the immediate Flint
area. (Bond Buyer, 2016)
⢠Flint is not the only American city facing an infrastructure crisis, specifically with water:
over 33 American areas have been in some variation of a water crisis, in which tap water
was not safe to either drink or wash with. (Democracy Now, 2016)
⢠Water pollution is a poorly misunderstood topic for many Americans, as it is difficult to
detect and presumed to be safe nationwide. (Democracy Now, 2016)
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Appendix 2
SWOT Analysis Graph
Strengths
⢠Leadership has strong public speaking skills
⢠All costs go directly to operations, which
makes for easy disclosure
⢠Mission statement has an empowering story
about grassroots citizen action
⢠Organization is active in public education
campaigns for adults and youth
⢠Excellent and unique rapport with local
community
Weaknesses
⢠Michiganders familiar with The Crisis have
limited resources to contribute
⢠Pending IRS 501c3 status, which complicates
grant application process
⢠Most resources are dedicated to operations,
not communication and outreach
⢠Directors are burdened with many various
communication requests
⢠Previous social media posts insinuate
animosity towards law enforcement
Opportunities
⢠Dedicated local volunteer base can be
expanded
⢠Featured in Democracy Now and Pantsuit
Nation documentaries about grassroots
organizations
⢠Water security interest is in drought prone
states and cities with aging infrastructure
⢠Increase in call to action for grassroots action
after 2016 Election
⢠Vocational schools in area have shown
interest in volunteering skilled labor
Threats/Challenges
⢠Flint is seen as âold newsâ
⢠Water infrastructure is complicated and
misunderstood by the public
⢠Strong mistrust in all levels of government
and local businesses
⢠Pending lawsuits for those involved in water
crisis cover-up and will not be concluded soon
⢠National media does not consistently cover
Flintâs ongoing crisis
⢠Federal bills to give additional aid pending
and may insinuate that The Crisis is solved
⢠Competition for funding from similar
organizations
⢠Many Americans are not familiar with Flint
households in extreme conditions
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Independent Research
Appendix 3:
Focus Group with Veteran Volunteers and Recently Trained Volunteers
Dispatch Day February 28, 2017, Crossing Water Dispatch Center
Attendance:
Pantsuit Nation Documentary Filmmakers: 3
Administrative Staff Members: 5
Volunteers: 28
⢠Returning Volunteers: 9
⢠Retired Social Service Workers: 5
⢠Fully Employed Social Service Workers: 4
⢠Undergraduate Students: 17
⢠Graduate Students: 2
Questions Asked:
1) How did you learn about Crossing Water?
2) What drives you to volunteer?
3) Do you see the Flint Water Crisis as a part of a larger theme in the political climate
nationwide?
4) How do you get your information about international and national news?
5) How do you get your information about Flint?
Key Quotes:
âIâm appalled. Iâm appalled that a basic element of life was denied to these people who did
absolutely nothing wrong. They paid their taxes, and they are expecting their government to
provide these very straightforward services. And they were poisoned, some permanently, some
even died. And in America. I know this happens in other parts of the world, but this is supposed
to be the greatest country on Earth, and these people are now sick.â
âWe should not have to be doing this. This was something that never should have happened.
What frustrates me is that what I am seeing in these homes are not what is getting to the news.
The filters are not cutting it, but it is the filters that all of these government officials and lawyers
are relying on to cover their own skin.â
âI heard about Crossing Water from those billboards on the sides of the highways when I drove
through Flint- the lead warnings were really only coming from them for a while. I was so
frustrated at the news making me feel so useless, and when I saw these National Guard troops
distributing water I thought âI can do that too, who else is in?â Sure enough, Mike was the only
one really grappling on a citizen level. It is great work.â
âI learned about Crossing Water through my grad school program at University of Michigan. I
am studying social work, and I am mad as hell about this entire situation, and it blends
everything together perfectly. It is hard work, physically and just emotionally, but I am glad that
I do these response days.â
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âIâm a retired social worker. Some of the things Iâve seen in the homes are really not just the
lead- it is the depression, the despair, and the really infirm people that I feel for. Some of these
homes really were already on thin ice, the lead just was the latest bad event for them. Some days
I really donât want to go, whether it is cold outside, Iâm tired, I just want to spend my afternoon
at home. But then I keep thinking about all those elderly people and kids that really are spending
their entire lives like this, and I realize that the least I can do is spend one of my days giving
back. I never regret going on dispatch days. And Mike is what helps me get back out there.â
âI study social work at University of Chicago, me and three other volunteers here. I think
Crossing Water is a way better volunteer option for me because the training I am getting here is
not wrapped up in academic theory- these are real people, real houses, and real problems that you
are trying to help with.â
âInitially I just gave 20 bucks to Crossing Waterâs crowd funding page, but I realized that my
time and attention was just as important. A lot of these people know that they need the filers and
they know where the PODs are, but they are sick, infirm, homebound. I donât do social work, I
am a water engineer, but frankly sometimes you just need to get a strong back, load up your car,
and get out there. It was way better than just clicking âLikeâ on Facebook if a friend ranted about
Flint.â
âI am worried that these impromptu protests that are being posted on social media will not be
sustainable. We need some sort of structure. We need to be educated, trained, and then we can
really have change come. Running around with a protest sign was great for The Womensâ
March, but Crossing Water has long term options to make a difference.â
âSeveral of the older volunteers really only have Facebook accounts to check in on Crossing
Water activities. E-mail would be easier for me, but we understand that the setup for Facebook
with [the leadership] is more straightforward, so Facebook is good enough for me.â
Appendix 4
Interview with Crossing Water Directors Michael Hood and Laurie Carpenter
February 28, 2017, Crossing Water Dispatch Center
âI started Crossing Water in 2013. It was initially an educational outreach plan that me and my
partner, Laurie, wanted to use as a labor of love. We had already read reports about funds
dwindling in the state, and lead exposure is a silent killer in America.
Weâve been seeing and hearing stories that are just not covered in the news. Partially because
there arenât many journalists in Michigan, let alone Flint. It is also hard to explain without
exploiting those who are victims of poverty and poisoning. People use wet wipes for months on
end because of lack of safe water, some people are ashamed that they are living in condemned
buildings, and law enforcement is not prevalent enough in the very dangerous areas to make a
significant difference. There is just no trust, no rapport.
And that is law enforcement, we havenât even gotten to the fly by night religious organizations.
They show up randomly, knock on peoplesâ doors, and they are never heard from again. This
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work is hard. The water is heavy, the weather is bad, and the resources are low. PODs are getting
shut down, and this 211 service is being treated as a golden goose.
Genessee Health Systems is the main health provider for people in Flint, and they have gotten
the lions share for health funding. The main issue is that they donât actually go to houses. The
homebound, the disabled, the people who may have used drugs or are not citizens, they rarely go
to their buildings. Those people need it the most, but Crossing Water can only refer them to
Genessee.â
Appendix 5
In-Depth Interview with Crossing Water Veteran Dennis Atkinson
February 28, 2017, Flint, Michigan, Response Team Duties
I was the âwater donkeyâ for Dennis Atkinson, a retired engineer who lives in Ann Arbor,
Michigan and frequently volunteers in Flint. I hauled approximately 27 crates of water, equaling
over 800 pounds, in a car that shadowed Mr. Atkinson. We visited 7 houses and visited 2 PODs.
âThere was a study that tried to put a price tag on the entire generation of children that were
exposed to lead in Flint. They put it at around 200 million dollars. How can you try to calculate
that kind of damage when these kids will be permanently limited mentally and physically for an
entire town? And it was not their doing, it was through officials trying to penny pinch. It was
completely just bad luck, and the children got the short straw. Itâs just crass how they proceeded.
Youâll see that a lot of the houses look abandoned. You see that those houses over there have
roofs that caved in from the heavy snow, the owner couldnât afford to fix the roof, so it caved in.
Others like that one have a lot of black soot on the walls or the porch. They canât afford to use
heating, or their heating got shut off from lack of bill payment, so they are using stoves. We try
to get them off the stoves, but itâs in the single digits so they get desperate. Then the house gets
caught on fire, they suffocate, or they canât repair the house after the fire department takes the
fire out. Those houses are still inhabited, but they have people squatting in them. If they donât
then people set the rest of the structure on fire to keep warm.
The problem with these houses is the Red Cross and law enforcement donât go anywhere near
them. Mike will tell you the same thing- its in a lot of houses here. Unfortunately, those people
need the water and filters and food more than anyone else, so if we have enough volunteers and
feel safe, we can go in and check in on them. It is really risky, but the residents are so weary of
random people that show up and knock on doors and the homeowner has no idea who they are.
Weâve gotten through to a good amount of people though.
I volunteer here because I have fond memories of Flint when I was here in college decades ago.
It used to be a beautiful town, lovely people, and good jobs. Then the car companies fled, the
recession hit, and these peopleâs lives just collapsed. It was a series of bad events for them, and
when the Crisis hit, it was like a death knell. I want them to get back on their feet, I really do, but
I think it will take a lot more than a lawsuit. They need young blood coming back. I hope that
what we are doing right now can get them at least through this rough time before the pipes get
replaced. Itâs just the least I can do.â
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Appendix 6
Interview with Kristina Marchu, Development Associate, Sustainable Fisheries Partnership
March 10, 2017, Washington, DC.
1) Are there particular news sources that grant writers and grant committees use?
Chronicles of Philanthropy and Foundation Center are the two biggies, along with nonprofit
membership organizations, ie APRA Association for Prospect Research) or others depending on
if you are in development, programs, etc. I set Google Alerts for key words that are useful to my
organization or foundation I am interested in so I can keep up with news that way as well.
2) How common do you like to see updates about the activities of non-profits? Monthly?
Quarterly? After a major event concerning the organizationâs activity?
Definite updates and from where. I get news daily from the above as well as industry-related
news (ie I work for sustainable seafood so I get SeafoodSource News). I am also on foundation
news blasts. If it was for some major event then I would see it reporting in just about all news
sources for a short while before tapering off to other topics.
3) Are there additional components that grant committees search for in an organization that is not
in the application itself?
Too variable to say. Each grant committee has set rules agreed upon for the foundation which
can be unique to themselves. Imagine each foundation as a country; they all have set boundaries
and interests but behave in their own specific manners dependent on where their interests lie,
what political situation they are in, who their neighbors are (in this instance perhaps what other
foundation is in the same sphere/topic as they are) and what their natural resources are.
5) Do you think that the leadership of a nonprofit can increase the perceived sustainability of the
organization?
Broadly speaking yes. The more an organization can have staff that find themselves in a larger
leadership position or position of authority on an issue the more respected they seem and
potentially more reliable.
6) Do you think that particular categories of news articles featuring the organization could help
or hurt the application process?
Oh both for sure! Positive news can help with proposals and negative news can keep proposals
from progressing into accepted grants. Positive could be great work done on a project ('tooting
their own horn') whereas negative could be grant mismanagement, poor funding allocations, etc.
Negative news does not necessarily mean from project failure if spun correctly (ie look at charity
water mentioned below)
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Appendix 7
Interview with Brittany Zeman, Global Communications and Philanthropy Officer, Relief
International
March 12, 2017, Washington, DC.
1) Tell me some of the inner workings of foundations that give grants.
I canât speak for all foundations, but many of the grant writers and evaluators do only just that.
That's literally their entire job and they are very specialized (for example, there's one guy who
works almost exclusively on a certain type of grants from UNICEF). My understanding is
international development grants are pretty thorny and require a high level of expertise to be able
to navigate successfully.
2) Do you see any patterns of grant applications as a whole?
Grant writing that is done on a domestic level is less complex. The international projects can get
really tricky because there are a lot of political factors that come into play- sometimes an
international incident occurs and an entire grant can be seen as unrealistic to execute.
3) For a project that is working on a very basic need that is seen usually in developing countries,
clean water, but is domestic, would you see any specific factors that can be in play?
Iâve noticed that with the emergency response projects that the people on the ground are
extremely difficult to get in touch with. They really arenât going to give the Communications
Team a lot of detailed input because of technological and time constraints. I think for them they
kind of get caught up in the end product and can quickly get impatient at the planning stages.
Appendix 8
Dispatch Day Notes
February 28, 2017, Flint, Michigan
⢠There are a lot of elements of Crossing Watersâ dispatch days that are not online,
partly out of the sensitive and proprietary nature of the training criteria, but also
because of the highly sensitive nature of what dispatch teams encounter in the field.
⢠There is a lot of reliance of the dependability of volunteer resources that are not
entirely explained, such as simply having the carrying capacity to haul a lot of water
for a long period of time in extreme weather.
⢠Crossing Watersâ unique approach to crisis response at a grassroots level specializing
in water security, which is a growing threat nationwide- Crossing Watersâ program can
be used in other cities with water security problems. (Morris 2017)
⢠Rapid response teams have on average three people per team, with a total of six teams
being dispatched at a time. Most dispatch days are two Saturdays a month with
additional follow-ups if needed.
⢠Many of the Crossing Water households that need the most amount of attention are
from the elderly, disabled, homebound, and ill. The average weight of a crate of
bottled water is 30 pounds, which is difficult to transport for these households.
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⢠There is an extensive email list of donors who have contributed on Crowdrise,
however there have been no updates sent to contributors in E-Newsletters following up
on Crossing Waterâs activities.
⢠The resources needed to provide emergency equipment and operations are expensive
and needs consistent funding. This expendable income is not in the immediate area,
where the crisis is well understood, but from Michigan volunteers and contributors
outside of Flint.
Skilled Volunteer Organizations Include:
⢠National Association of Social Workers - Michigan
Â
⢠University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration
⢠National Resources Defense Council
⢠Syrian American Medical Society-there is a large Syrian immigrant community in
Michigan. (Ramirez, 2016) The organization wants to take an active role in aiding
communities prone to poverty.
Informal and Impromptu Fundraising Contribution Sources Include:
⢠Big League Impact recently contribution of $10,000- still uncertain how the grant
writer found Crossing Water
⢠School book drives from local area schools have contributed funds- Crossing Water
staff have gotten their attention through word of mouth
⢠The Annenberg Foundation is in the process of finalizing a grant for Crossing Water
after Michael Hood presented to the University of Southern California about water
safety and Flintâs Water Crisis. California faces series of water shortages from drought
cycles. (Hardin, 2016)
⢠While The Mott Foundation offered a $12,000 dollar grant to Crossing Water in 2016,
the grant offer was declined due to the restrictions that Mott required to accept the
funding.
Appendix 9
Interview with Director Liz Harp, Documentary Filmmaker for Pantsuit Nation
February 28, 2017, Crossing Water Dispatch Center
âWhat Crossing Water is doing is the epitome of citizen action and humanitarian work not for
money, not for glory or fame, because clearly they are not getting any of that. They are doing it
because this Flint Water Crisis was not only an abject failure to provide this basic service all for
cutting costs, but the powers that be, both the government officials and companies, lied about it
when they were caught.
This element of humanitarian aid for [The Crisis] hit on so many problems in America, like poor
infrastructure, poor social service options, the elderly, and just the economy as a whole, Pantsuit
Nation took notice. We want to highlight their work and feature them on the site, but it takes a
long time to edit and get the green light from the administrators of [Pantsuit Nation].
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Appendix 10
Summary of Survey Sent to Crossing Water Mailing List
A survey was administered via Survey Monkey to Crossing Water volunteers, contributors, and
Facebook followers. This survey asked for basic demographic and psychographic information as
well as suggestions and comments for communication insights. The graphs were synthesized
using Google Spreadsheets. The following contains responses from 52 people, as well as
highlights of some comments for Crossing Water.
Key Findings from Independent Research Based on Surveys
⢠Most respondents preferred to get news about Crossing Water through Facebook or
email, while e-newsletters were the third most common preferred media channel.
⢠The most common way respondents learned about Crossing Water was through a family
or friend, through social media, or the National Association of Social Workers in
Lansing, Michigan.
⢠Contributors and volunteers consistently said that what motivated to give their time and
or financial aid to Crossing Water was the organizationsâ leadership and dedication to the
residents of Flint.
⢠Many comments noted anger at government officials and concern that other activist
groups were only policy based, not action based.
⢠Both individual contributors and volunteers expressed interest in the need to take
positive, grassroots action and not to just learn about it in the media.
⢠Most respondents found a connection with The Womenâs March and wanted to continue
taking political action or enable people to enact change.
Key Comments:
âI think you should mobilize the considerable number of volunteers at CW to communicate with
politicians. Send out phone scripts/letter templates that we can use to reach out to our federal and
state representatives. Unfortunately the Flint water crisis is starting to fade away from public
consciousness not only nationally but here in Michigan too in areas outside of Flint. If my
Congressman or State Rep in Lansing or wherever else knows that their constituents are
concerned with Flint, then they are more likely to take action. Applying pressure on politicians at
every level of the government is important.â
âNever give up, regardless of what may or may not happen with government. Flint residents will
have several years of suffering and needs all the help they can get.â
âContinue developing ways to expand Crossing Water's presence and accomplishments with the
citizens of Michigan and the Nation in print and in prominence as a hard-working, effective
agency.â
âCrossing Water consistently supports our community against formidable odds (weather, a
legion of resident issues, temporary housing of commodities, distribution) They are extremely
welcome in our community.â