Because Hurricanes Gustav and Ike have severely impacted the tourism and event industry in the Gulf Coast region this summer, the International Special Events Society has teamed up with
Special Events magazine in order to create an online resource with which to assist storm victims.
While
Special Events builds the online resource—which will connect Gulf Region event professionals who need help with industry colleagues who can provide it—ISES has published an informational Web page for individuals who wish to assist with hurricane relief efforts. Located at
www.ises.com, the Web page was announced today via a special ISES bulletin and includes information on donating blood, supplies and money to hurricane victims and their families.
"The International Special Events Society wishes to extend its heartfelt sympathies to those individuals whose lives have been disrupted or changed due to the recent tropical storms and hurricane to hit the Southeastern United States," reads the ISES Web page. "We would like to pass along information to all ISES members should you wish to assist in the relief efforts."
According to ISES, the most urgent needs among storm victims are for portable electric generators, tarps, ice chests, potable water and food, although blood and cash donations are also needed.
Meeting planners who are in need, or who want to help hurricane-affected colleagues, are encouraged to contribute to ISES's and
Special Events' online hurricane resource by sending an e-mail to
[email protected]. Those who wish to donate blood, meanwhile, are encouraged to find a blood bank in their area by visiting
www.givelife.org.
For a complete list of national and local relief agencies, including contact information, visit
www.ises.com.