Thanks to all chapters that planned fundraising events in their communities to support the victims of the earthquake and tsunami disaster in Japan. Collectively, APAMSA chapters raised more than $11,000! We saw a variety of creative ideas and partnerships, from local bar nights featuring raffle prizes to sushi-making workshops and special seminars. Many chapters also found matching funds within their own schools or with local businesses. The success of these fundraisers is truly inspirational and a testament to what APAMSA chapters and members can accomplish.

Congratulations to the Albert Einstein School of Medicine chapter for raising the most funds overall in our National APAMSA Japan Relief Fundraiser Contest! Their amazing bake sale and origami sale garnered more than $5000 and was described in the National APAMSA newsletter in the spring. However, the group didn’t stop their fundraising efforts there. Partnering with the Einstein Japanese Community Group and a variety of other groups including local musicians and businesses, the Einstein APAMSA chapter planned an additional series of fundraising events including a jazz night, book sale, origami class, sake night, and a special concert featuring Japanese artists.  In total, they raised $6508.32 for the Japanese Red Cross, which uses 100% of their proceeds to help the disaster victims directly. In honor of Einstein’s achievements, National APAMSA will also be donating $1500 to the Japanese Red Cross. 

Thank you again to all chapters for your hard work, which will surely make a difference to those that need it most! Even though it has been half a year now since the disaster, please remember that the affected areas of Japan have far from recovered. Many victims are still without homes or belongings, and it will take a long time for entire prefectures to rebuild. Please continue spreading word about their need. We encourage APAMSA members to stay updated and to help as much as possible.