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Donate Direct |
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Friday, 24 July 2009 |
Danni Franks, founder of myisrael, a charity that supports grassroots projects in Israel, is appealing for the support of the Leeds Jewish community.
 Myisrael shines a light on the notion that a small donation can make a big difference: “No donation is too small; 63p pays for a hot meal at the foodbank we support so a few pounds can go a long way,” explains Danni Franks, who left a career in media marketing in the UK for a new life in Tel Aviv over a year ago. She was inspired to launch a no-frills charity with a focus on direct giving, transparency and helping lesser-known charities reach a UK audience, after witnessing at first-hand the need for vital funds. “When I moved to Israel I became aware of the gap between what is happening and what the tourists see; one in three children live in poverty; there are many worthwhile projects that don’t receive the attention they deserve.”
Since launching in March 2008, myisrael has raised more than £450,000 for charitable projects in Israel. It vets each and every project, allowing donors and fundraisers the option of choosing a specific project to support. The charity’s far-ranging causes include a dental clinic in Jerusalem, emotional support for partners of fallen soldiers and animal therapy for Holocaust survivors; it currently supports 19 projects in Israel.
With Danni the only paid worker and without an office or large marketing budget, myisrael has grown through word of mouth and it communicates primarily through its website and holds various fundraising events and activities. “Those involved in raising funds for myisrael’s projects can be secure in the knowledge that 100 per cent goes to charity. All administration costs are covered separately and our overheads are kept low,” says Danni.
So far, much of myisrael’s fundraising has taken place in London where Danni has most of her contacts. She is urging the Leeds Jewish community to get involved, whether its synagogues, groups or individuals. “We’re looking for volunteers in Leeds to administer events and to donate. Anyone can get involved, from people setting up committees and Bar/ Bat Mitzvah boys and girls donating some of their gift money to individuals donating a one-off or regular amount.”
For further details, visit www.myisraelcharity.org |
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