Sound laws and progressive legal reforms promote good governance, improve the overall socio-economic conditions in countries, and protect human rights. But there are other, more direct ways to contribute to human development and well-being. The charitable sector (civil society organizations) brings together a large number of people all around the world who work towards valuable causes. Every month I make several donations. Here is a partial list of organizations or causes which I am supporting:
Save the Redwoods. These majestic and unique trees once covered much of the planet, but are now confined to a narrow area of the West Coast of the USA. There is nothing like a walk through a redwood forest. This treasure must be preserved for future generations. See http://www.savetheredwoods.org
Rainforest Trust: Preserving rainforest for the future is an excellent way to protect nature, promote human well-being, and support our planet. Rainforest Trust purchases and sets aside rainforest land in a sustainable fashion in key and strategic locations. See www.rainforesttrust.org
Bat Conservation International. Bats are amazing and unique mammals. They make a major contribution to insect control and pollination, and are key members of many ecosystems. But their habitats are being destroyed, they face serious diseases, and many species are threatened. See https://www.batcon.org
International Medical Corps. Sometimes basic medical assistance can make a major difference in people’s lives. International Medical Corps sends physicians to places where they can save lives and make a real difference. See https://internationalmedicalcorps.org/
Union of Concerned Scientists. The scientific method is the best way to separate fact from fiction and promote sustainable development. And science is the best foundation for policies and laws which will help people and solve the major problems faced by humanity, through democratic processes. The Union of Concerned Scientists is working to promote respect for science and support for scientists. See https://www.ucsusa.org/
The World Wildlife Fund. The WWF works to protect the natural heritage of this unique and precious planet, which humans depend upon and are responsible for safeguarding. See www.worldwildlife.org/home-full.html
PATH. PATH is a leader in global health innovation, with a focus on women and children. It works on vaccines, medicines, diagnostics, and systemic innovation. See www.path.org
The GAVI Alliance. GAVI works to save lives and promote the health of children through vaccines and other preventive treatments. It is proven that modest investments can save numerous lives. See www.gavialliance.org/
Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC). Rabies is not a widely publicized health issue, but it causes 55,000 deaths and large economic losses every year. This can be minimized in a very cost-effective manner through inoculating and controlling animal (and particularly dog) populations. See www.rabiesalliance.org
The Divers Alert Network. DAN provides services and supports people who engage in this popular sport, and others as well. See: http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/
Wikipedia. This is a fabulous source of information which is utilized by large numbers of people every day without cost. But contributions are helpful, to further the patrimony of human knowledge. See: https://donate.wikimedia.org
End Seven. Hundreds of millions of people suffer from seven Neglected Tropical Diseases, and even small donations can make a big difference. See: www.end7.org
The Nature Conservancy. Rainforests are crucial for bio-diversity and the survival of life on our planet, and their preservation is our duty for future generations. See: http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/urgentissues/rainforests/index.htm
Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontièrs). MSF provides crucial medical care for people throughout the world, and encourages the finest in public service. See: http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/
Legal Aid Society of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Pro Bono Publico and subsidized legal services are crucial for ensuring equal access to justice and promoting the rights of all citizens. See: http://www.lasp.org/
Ecologic Development Fund. Community-based projects are one of the most effective means for protecting fragile environmental resources while promoting sustainable development and social progress. See: http://www.ecologic.org/
UNICEF. Children are the future, and we must do as much as possible to support the next generation. Support for children can be provided at www.supportunicef.org
Mark Segal 