Tsunami Relief Fund in Honor of Ben Abels provides humanitarian aid, rehabilitation and reconstruction to the people affected by the tsunami. More than a quarter of a million people are now known to have died, and millions of people have been left homeless and in need of aid. In the tsunami affected areas, relief continues to be a pressing need in order to rebuild infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and affordable homes. Your contribution is still needed and very much appreciated.

For reasons of simplicity, we chose to open a fund with The Rotary Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation that supports international humanitarian efforts. We chose The Rotary Foundation because it is headquartered in Evanston, Ben's hometown. The fund is called a "Donor Advised Fund" (hence the "DAF" on the checks). All money flows through The Rotary Foundation (hence the "TRF" on the checks) and charitable contributions are tax-deductible, subject to legal restrictions based on individual tax situations.

The Tsunami Relief Fund in honor of Ben Abels the fund has now grown to over $100,000. So far, we have directed Rotary International to distribute $25,000 to Save the Children and $25,000 to Habitat for Humanity and $25,000 to Mercy Corps which brings the total funds distributed to date to $75,000. We are working with Rotary International to distribute the approximately $35,000 balance plus other contributions as they come in.