- AFIRM has zero overhead given its volunteer board, so 100% of all contributions go directly for assistance.
- AFIRM efforts are applied directly and specifically to fishing communities most severely impacted.
“Japan is Alaska’s largest trading partner, with the majority consisting of Alaska seafood. In one way or another, everyone involved in any aspect of the seafood industry in Alaska and the West Coast has strong ties and relationships with Japan. Our hearts and prayers are with the Japanese people as they seek to recover from this terrible tragedy, and we will look for guidance from them on best to use the resources we raise to assist their fishing communities,” said Larry Cotter, AFIRM’s Chair.
“We are also aware of damage suffered by fishing communities in Brookings, Crescent City, Fort Bragg and other Oregon and California North Coast communities, and we intend to apply some of our efforts to help their communities as well,” said AFIRM Secretary-Treasurer Mark Vinsel.
AFIRM, a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity, was first formed to assist the Gulf fishing communities following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. The group coordinated the donation of a Marine Travellift to refloat thousands of vessels grounded far inshore by the hurricanes, as well as providing for an ice-making facility.
AFIRM will seek in this effort to repeat this success by communicating directly with the affected fishing communities to ascertain needs, and leveraging cash donations with equipment or other obtainable assets to directly meet these needs. This website is to provide information on our efforts, and to provide an easy and secure way for you to contribute individually.
To make a fully tax deductible contribution, send your contribution to :
AFIRM – 211 Fourth St Ste 110, Juneau AK 99801. To contribute by credit card without using PayPal, donations may be made by phone through United Fishermen of Alaska at (907) 586-2820.
Or Donate Online through Paypal:
We thank you for your support.
Larry Cotter, Chairman
Mark Vinsel, Secretary/Treasurer
Press Releases:
Alaska Fishing Industry Announces Assistance to Fishing Communities Affected by Japanese Earthquake (March 25, 2011)
Alaska Donates Icemaking Equipment to Mississippi (June
6, 2006)
Alaska
Exports 16-Ton Helping Hand To Gulf Relief (February
9, 2006)
AFIRM in the News:
Alaska
fishermen unite and rock to help brethren in Gulf by Laine
Welch Alaska Journal of Commerce (October 9, 2005)
Alaska
fishermen donate next year's catch to hurricane victims
by Margaret Bauman
Alaska Journal of Commerce (October 9, 2005)
|
