ALERT: Ready for Irene — A message from CEO Richard Walden

Like you, Operation USA is closely monitoring reports of Hurricane Irene’s path of destruction as it makes its way north.  65 million people are in its path.

We want you to imagine that you are here with us at Operation USA headquarters in Los Angeles as we watch the storm–and prepare to be useful in the most effective way we can. We’re a small but agile relief group which uses private support from individuals, companies and foundations. We match corporate donations of products with actual needs in clinics and schools after disasters here and abroad.

Recently, we responded to the tornado and flood disasters which struck the south and mid-west.  After sending a large truckload of shelter supplies to a local social sevices group in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, we considered what we could do for Joplin, Missouri, which was so devastated by a powerful tornado. We are making grants to an after-school program and a community clinic in Joplin. While not a massive response, area-wide, like that of a government agency or government relief contractor, our donors felt a connection with our process and our work. We pride ourselves on ‘smart aid’–making the maximum impact where it is needed the most.

Operation USA aspires to work in equal measure here and abroad. The needs of our fellow Americans have always been an essential part of our mandate. We will most certainly be ready to help as needed following Hurricane Irene.

Watching the storm’s progress–and hoping for the best…
Stay safe,
Richard Walden
President & CEO