Assistant Editor's Note: The following is a letter from ATTA Member APTA (Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa) NorthEast, about their efforts to raise aid for the Japan crisis. Please note ATTA's original coverage of the Japan disaster, including a list of reputable charitable organizations, as well as statements from our Japanese members requesting that donations be made to the Japan chapter of the Red Cross. More recent updates on Japan can be found here.
Dear Members:
We need your help URGENTLY!
PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) has launched an appeal through its Foundation to raise funds for disaster relief in Japan, following the devastation caused by the earthquake and ensuing tsunami.
Donations will be channeled to the affected area through the PATA Japan Chapter.
As members of the APTA North East Chapter involved in the travel and tourism industry, we are especially aware of the calamity in Japan and its multiple consequences - so many people killed or wounded, families separated, homes destroyed, land laid waste, and so on. I urge you to unite behind this cause in a spirit of humanitarianism and compassion to support the PATA Foundation in this worthwhile effort.
Checks should be made to NY PATA and mailed to Marlene Melton, Treasurer APTA NE. African Ventures, Inc., 50 West 97 Street, Suite # 10V New York, NY. 10025, Important: the reference should read: APTA : Japan Relief Fund.
PATA Foundation is a US Not -for-Profit Tax Exempt Organisation described in Section 501 © (3)
US donors may claim tax exemption for their donations. PATA Foundation E.I.N.94-2955325
At APTA, we always get behind a just cause.
I urge you to act promptly and generously by sending your donation immediately.
With much appreciation,
Tiru Irani,
President, APTA NE