I am looking to start up a charitable event/foundation to improve Korean/American relations in the local communities near the bases/posts for Christmas. The main idea I have is to collect and distribute gifts for kids in orphanages or hospitals. I am looking for volunteers to be collectors/promoters. Here are the basic points:

1. I need volunteers from each base/post
2. These volunteers will go to a local orphanage/hospital and collect a list on names. If you have 50 kids, it is your goal to get 50 gifts. Basically, get their name and if they are a boy or girl.
3. The volunteers will solicit gifts from Americans outside the gate (set up a table or walk around with a clip board). Basically, have people “adopt” a kid for Christmas. Take down their e-mail/phone number and the best way to get the gift from them in the future. The volunteer provides contact information as well.

My goal is to collect the names of the kids by December 4th (this Sunday) and start collecting pledges until December 15. From December 15 until December 20 we collect the wrapped gifts and then deliver the gifts to the kids at the best date for the orphanage.

We could have some of our “larger” volunteers dress up like Santa Claus and bring in the gifts with his elves. I would like to meet with the volunteers or talk to them on the phone this weekend, if possible. Please post your thoughts or ideas here!

Here is a good list of orphanages in Korea:
http://www.koreanchildren.org/docs/o...ges-9-List.htm

Mike

Always a good thing to help others! I work in the same building as the chaplain in Camp Coiner, Yongsan. I think in most cases, coordinating with your local chaplains will make this type of volunteerism go easier, as they normally already have vehicles and drivers and collection points, etc. I think I would check with them first, to prevent duplication. Perhaps there is another orphanage or old folks home that is not sponsored, and is in need, and the Chaplains may direct you to where your giving spirit is needed most!

I will contact Chaplain Anderson today to see what the Chapel has planned for orphanages in the Songtan area.