a year to remember

Well, this Christmas came and went in a blur, as it does most every year. Especially the last week leading up to the big day. Once again I found myself in the last minute rush to finish up the shopping list. I must admit, the last minute thing really gets me in the holiday mood, call me crazy but I like the crowds. It's one of the few times in the year where we're all in it for somebody else. Whether it's a family member, a friend, a teacher or the mailman, we are all thinking of others during this time of year. Surrounding myself in such good karma can't possibly be a bad thing, it's the good that I'm drawn to and I feel it so strongly this time of year. I'm convinced this feeling is the underlining emotion in everyone that makes this season so fulfilling.

With less than a week left in 2009, I can't help but think about what this year has meant to me. I started this year in a completely different place than I find myself now. Kinda freaky when I break it down, the differences in my day-to-day are quite the contrast. It's a good thing because I feel that I am finally establishing my true self value, doing something I feel in the grand scheme of things is more important and so desperately needed. With the transformation that's occured, I've learned a lot about myself and others. Point is,,, I've learned. I am one who feels that we must continue to learn no matter what we think we know, this is the only way to gain complete understanding, if that's even possible. Establishing Each One for US All has been an incredible learning experience. there has been great strides made in the short time I've put my efforts forth in creating this corporation. As one may expect, along with moving forward there has been set backs. Things that come along and stop you in your tracks. Things like this were usually beyond my control but that didn't make it any easier to deal with. I've found that reminding myself of the reason I started this venture and the successes I've achieved brings me back.

The reason for the venture still looms as a tragic reality to this country. I can't tell you the actual amount of people who still suffer in this country from natural disasters that occured years ago. The stories of people still in temporary housing, the lack of volunteers to help and the complete lack of support from our government programs in place to help us in these times.

Each One for US All has been receiving donations for our first official "Call To Action" put into place earlier this month. This has solidified the feeling of true purpose to all the work I've put into this venture. With only three days left in the year, I am eager to see how the donations will positively impact the lives of others. This will be the pay-off for all the time and effort by so many and put us on the map as our official first project.

Wishing everyone a safe and prosperous New Year, 2010 is going to rock!

DD

P.S. There is still time to get in your donations for the Call To Action, for details, click here and get involved. Help make a difference in the lives of others in need.

call to action, 2009 year end donations for those in need

Open your hearts to others in need. Join in on this Call to Action - http://bit.ly/8zwkci
Make a difference this holiday season.
sign up for the mailing list, share with friends.

something to talk about.... The sequel

It's crazy, the things one goes through to become a non-profit. The details, the time sitting around waiting for others to tell you are OK to do the good you plan to do.....

Well folks,,, the time is NOW!!!!!!

Today, while discussing other matters with my gracious attorneys, I was informed that I have been approved by the Federal Government for 501(c)(3) status.

I am beside myself with all the opportunities that stand in front of me. I am humbled by the people who have always believed in me. And I am freaking out because this is finally in my eyes,,,,, REAL!!!!

Now, I can reach out to private foundations and the government for grants.
Now, I can reach out to corporations to develop sponsorships
Now, I can say, yes, you contributions are tax deductible.
Now,,,, I can really set out to do the good that is needed. To provide towns across our country with the support we all need and deserve.

Each one of us doing for all of us.... Isn't that what it's all about???

DD

another milestone reached

I am happy to report that the Each One for US All website is now live. I huge thank you goes out to Bob and Leigh Karsch at Karsch Creative for gettin' her done. Thanks also goes out to Rob Sims and Matt Cordes for their writing talents, great job everybody.

Although my blog has captured my visions and ideas for the developement of the organization, I feel the website really captures the goals. This will be a tool to update our progress and educate the visitor of what we're all about and in turn motivate those to get inolved.

I hope you will all stop by and check it out. Please feel free to let me know your thoughts, I have gained so much from so many just by listening to their point of view.

On another note, my interview will be running on Thanksgiving day in The Courier Times, The Intelligencer and The Burlington County Times, hoping for a huge push from the publicty, fingers crossed. You can also see it on http://www.phillyburbs.com/. Last week a preview was run online at this link, check it out.
http://blogs.phillyburbs.com/news/bcct/yardley-resident-founds-non-profit-to-help-flood-victims/

Wishing everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving holiday.

DD

blame all you want, what we need is a change

A great portion of my day is spent doing research, primarily on the internet, finding stories about towns across our country still in disarray from disasters mostly years after the fact. What I love about the web now is the ability to access it anywhere, anytime. In fact, right now I am writing this blog in a waiting room of a car service center, they have wireless access, meaning I don't have to page through the old copies of the popular rags on display and I can continue my quest to learn more about the goings on in our country at the moment.

I stumbled upon this article form the LA Times about the Army Corps. Of Engineers that I felt I needed to share - http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-na-katrina-flooding19-2009nov19,0,3370102.story. The events of Hurricane Katrina were like no other in our country. The news about how people are still struggling to rebuild can be found every day. We as a country all sat there and saw firsthand how unprepared we were with an event of this magnitude. This article to me really shows why we need to deal with natural disasters in a more proactive way. From what I understand about the Army Corps., they are a government agency. Like other government agencies, they are assigned a budget every year to deal with finding solutions and rebuilding to help alleviate the effects of natural disasters or to eliminate them altogether. Having to determine a budget for this type of need must be an unbelievable task. Frankly, this approach in my mind can only lead to more things being moved to the back burner and falling through the cracks. Think about it in terms of your family, we all have expenses, the car breaks down, the roof may spring a leak, the carpet needs replacing. Your budget will take care of needs and fixes that fall highest on the priority list. You may opt to fix the car and the roof but put off the new carpet until your budget opens up. We've all been there, that carpet replacement could take months or longer if something else pops up like it always seems to do.

I guess as a society we want to have someone or something to blame, this gives us closure on some level so we can move on. However, as the article states, this ruling will open up our government to thousands of new claims costing the government and ultimately us as citizens, billions of dollars. Looking at it in that respect is why I have started my organization Each One for US All. My town of Yardley, PA had a solution in place to control the water on the Delaware River provided by the Army Corps. Of Engineers since the 60's and still to this day, they won't move forward in its implementation. We as a united front can tackle these situations with a proactive approach with charitable donations coming from each and every one of us that has been, will be or knows someone dealing with the effects of a natural disaster. Unfortunately they way things are set up; we are already footing the bill for a system that doesn't seem to work.

DD

something to talk about

I'm back and I'm sorry I've been away for so long. The truth is that for the past month or so I have been in a waiting mode. Not to say that I haven't been keeping busy but I didn't think every aspect of my research and every detail of my day-to-day was really that interesting. I was sure there would come a day that I could inform everyone of something new and today is the day.
I am very excited to announce that I have been interviewed by our regional newspaper for an article that will be published on Thanksgiving Day. I am scheduled for a photo shoot along the banks of the Delaware River on Thursday of this week,,, fitting to say the least. For those of you in Bucks County, you can find it in the Courier Times, for those of you that are out of town, you can see the article on the web at - http://www.phillyburbs.com/ A special thank you to Amanda Cregan for her interest and providing the stage for a broad audience to see my vision.

With this article I will also be launching the Each One for Us All website. Part of the details I referred to earlier was the building of this site. There has been a large amount of work done here. It is amazing what it takes to put something like this together. Frankly I never really thought too much about how web pages work and the planning that goes on behind its creation, but like almost everything else in life, you never really know until you actually do it. The website I feel is such an important part of the organization. The web has made the world a smaller place and with the launch I will be able to share my vision on a grander scale. I intend to utilize this tool to its fullest extent, to educate, to inspire and to gain support so needed for so many.

Throughout the past 5 months I will tell you that I have experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. With every risk one takes, you have to expect there will be a fair share of ups and downs. Those experiences for me have been the fuel to thinking outside of my comfort zone, something I believe is necessary to the success of my path. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I'd be remiss not to send out a huge thank you to all the folks along the way that have inspired, challenged and encouraged me to move forward with this vision. With your support, I am confident I will see every success I know that can be accomplished.

Leigh, Brenda, Fred and Rob, thanks for climbing aboard, you will all bring your special gifts that will make a huge difference in others lives.
Ron, thanks for spreading the word, you by far have been more than just a friend, you are a true advocate of this cause and I won't forget.
Ronni, Michiel and Richard at Dechert, I'd still be sifting through IRS forms without your intervention for sure.
Lorna for always asking how I'm doing in this process,, for sharing the link with your friends as well.
Facebook friends and Twitter followers, what a cool vehicle social networking can be.
Followers on this blog, email subscribers and folks that just pop in. Your comments are priceless.
Brittany, Bobby and Laurel, just seeing you all grow make me want to be a better person.
And finally my Jacqueline, none of this would have ever happened if it wasn't for your unconditional love and support. You've given me the greatest gift I could ever receive, the belief that I can achieve anything if I put my mind to it.

DD

the government crutch

Friday, October 2nd 2009. As an average American guy I greeted this morning with the same positive attitude that most have for a Friday, kind of funny when you think of it, how the last day of the work week for most of us just brings joy. On the other hand, I live in Pennsylvania and my happy thoughts were quickly cut short over the headlines I read in my local newspaper this morning.

For those of you who don't know it, Pennsylvania is the only state left in our country without a budget in place. In fact, the powers that be are now moving this stalemate into the 4th month. I can say to you that in the past I would have been someone who had no idea about the goings on in Harrisburg when it came to the yearly budget. However, this lack of coming to terms is affecting thousands of people and as you may have guessed me and my family’s business. You see, my wife and I own a daycare in Morrisville PA. The daycare industry happens to be one that is paid a subsidy from the state. Although our Governor, Ed Rendell signed a preliminary agreement to keep checks flowing to state workers and other state agencies, the agency that pays daycares was left off the list. This subsidy pays parents of low incomes so they can work and at the same time provide care for their children. This system is in place to better their situations and ultimately stop utilizing the system. We have seen it firsthand how the system has worked for so many families we've provided care for. Being a witness to that, we have vowed to those families we have in place that we would continue to care for their children so they could work and continue to build a better way of life. The reality is we haven't been paid by the state since July for these families. This represents roughly 33% of our business. I have heard of other daycare providers with a far higher percentage of subsidized families who are in the same boat. This lack of payment is forcing daycares across our state to lay off workers and in some cases shut their doors.

There lies the background and here's the point. Government is a crutch. To some it's a crutch they carry their entire lives, yes people will abuse the system. Others will use this crutch until they are well again to stand on their own two feet. Unfortunately when you are ailing and there is no crutch, it makes it that much harder to get well again. Some people say that government has no business even having programs like these in place. These are usually the lucky few that have been able to provide without government intervention or their ideals are clouded by their upbringing or other circumstances. The point is government on a state or a federal level is there to provide support for us, the citizens that make up this country. With the way of the economy and the state of unemployment in this country, believe me, no one is immune. Any one of us could find ourselves being one of those people we criticized yesterday, tomorrow. The actual control we think we have is really an illusion and the elected officials have so much control over so many and could yank away what we've come to rely on without notice.

Take FEMA for example. If you were hit by a natural disaster, losing all your belongings, would you expect to be paid for rebuilding your home? Of course you would because the majority of us don't have the resources to do it by ourselves. Is this a crutch? Some would say yes,,,, actually I would say yes. It's something I relied upon when I was a victim of a natural disaster and without it, my family and most throughout my town would still be in shambles. Does FEMA cover everything? Absolutely not. In fact as I've demonstrated in previous blogs, coverage we expect falls short, leaving thousands of people wondering what they can actually rely upon. If you look back at my September 4th post, "changing the rules" you will see that FEMA is in the midst of making a change that will drastically reduce the amount of funding they will provide on the third occurrence.

The reality is this. We as a country have things in place but we can only rely on them to a certain extent. September's NPM, that is, National Preparedness Month has come and gone and I wonder how many actually took it to heart. How many of us thought about our own vulnerability and took steps to be better prepared in case of an event beyond our control. I am trying to do my part. I am convinced that we as a society need to come together to support our fellow citizens. The crutch being offered is not the end-all-be-all to getting our lives back to normal after an event. I am also convinced that no one is untouchable. If you haven't been affected by a natural disaster, I'm sure you know someone who has. The fact is, we as a people sometimes fall into that false sense of security. We live our lives unaffected, doing our day-to-day. We sometimes judge others based upon what we see on the surface and never take the time to look at the full picture of their circumstances. And we all too often think that things will just work out.

I for one, think we need to think again.

DD

georgia on my mind

Many of you may have heard about the recent heavy rains and flash flooding in Georgia over the past couple days, for those of you who haven't, here's a link to the story as of this morning.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090922/ap_on_re_us/us_heavy_rain_southeast

This was some serious rain in these areas, almost 2 feet of water in a two day span. Believe me; this type of downpour would leave any area in disarray. My heart goes out to the families affected and the people doing all they can to get the situation under control.

As of this morning, this has not been added to FEMA's list of Federally Declared Emergencies but I'm sure Georgia Governor, Sonny Perdue will be writing his request if he hasn't done so already. This request will springboard the Federal Government into action to help these communities on a grander scale. I can only hope the counties affected have an up-to-date Hazard Mitigation Plan. This is the key to funding from FEMA for the town and the people affected.

More to come I'm sure,,, I'll keep you posted.

DD

change,, the only constant in life

There's a chill in the air and a change a brewin', you can feel it. As this day marks the official last day of summer, I look into fall as the real season of change. This will be the time of year when all this work of the summer will payoff and I'm sure even more work ensue.

Today I find myself with a long "to do" list which is exciting because with every task checked off, leads me closer to the reality of Each One for US All. Here's what I'm working on today.

1. The Website - The timeline is now official. If you've had a chance to click on the site for Each One for US All what you've found is only a logo. Soon this tool will be the true window to the organization. I am working hard with my designer to capture all the elements to make it as user friendly and as comprehensive as possible. A challenge like most things but all challenges can be overcome with proper planning which we have. The overall outline is my big chore today and I'll be meeting with my writer this week as well.

2. Printing - The designs for my stationery, letterhead and business cards are complete. Off to the printer today to get some ink on paper. It's funny,,, I spent 26 years in the printing industry, running machines for 11of those and selling for the rest, now I find myself on the other side of the table. This should be interesting to say the least.

3. The Video Clip - Over the weekend I put together the storyboards for a video about the organization. This was really cool and I can't wait to complete it. I spent hours sifting through video clips that would capture my vision. I'm amazed at all the resources out there and I'm thrilled to put this project together. I will release it first on this blog when it's complete, so stay tuned.

With the seasons changing, I reflect on the changes we all encounter. I send my thoughts to others going through changes in their own lives and hope that you all find the strength to get through. Like so many people told me,”everything happens for a reason". I've found the best thing to do is to find that reason and start making things happen.

DD

conquering the 1023

"Hey,,, I have an idea,,,,, I want to form a non-profit to provide relief for natural disasters".

Sounded pretty simple when the idea jump into my mind but like most things, the details can be the killer. One would be killer in this process is the dreaded and all consuming 1023 form created by the IRS. This form is the key to 501(c)(3) status otherwise known as being tax exempt. Two beautiful words in the non-profit world. The ability to offer a write-off to the contributors, the true status of a public charity.

Yesterday marked the day that I pressed send on an email addressed to my attorney (pro-bono by the way,, 2 more beautiful words) attached with my completed 1023 form. To say that this was a load off my shoulders would be an understatement,,, this my friends was the biggest step in my mind to make this venture a reality. The details of this form can make people second guess their decision to actually form a non-profit. It makes you think out and state every move you are going to make as an organization. You need to provide details as if you have already been doing this for years and provide financial projections for years to come. As far as challenges one experiences to form a non-profit, this rises to the top of the list. I'm happy to see it moving forward allowing me to continue working on other details.

DD

yard work therapy

Some people pay others to take care of their lawn, some people pay others to listen to their thoughts and sort out their problems. Not me. I use the power of what I call yard work therapy. I find yard work to be very therapeutic. Really,, it gives me time to focus on my thoughts, allowing me to organize other tasks at hand. I spent hours this past weekend trimming and planting at the daycare my wife runs and an equal amount of time at my home. Hours of work means hours of thought. Here's a little more insight.

1. The Board of Directors for Each One for US All is now complete. In the midst of ripping out weeds in the flower bed on Pennsylvania Ave in Morrisville, PA,,, I determined my final selection.

2. The list of key contributing corporations has been determined. As I planted a new maple tree smack dab in the center of that very same flower bed, my top 5 prospective targets came into view.

3. A new idea for the formatting of my website was created. Something about the hum of that weed-whacker really gets me thinking.

I guess it all comes down to who you are. Some people find they think best with isolation and silence. Not me,,, give me a lawn mower and a patch of land needing some attention and I can solve any problem at hand.

DD

getting back to normal

After a natural disaster rips through a town, it makes sense that time will be needed to clean up and repair. This is a given and something that can take its toll on you. When it comes down to it, a structure can be replaced, new furniture can be purchased and new plants can be grown. The hard part is seeing all the memories destroyed, those intangible items that can never be replaced. I experienced this type of loss in the flood of 2005. Our basement was a storage area for family memories and seasonal decorations. Unfortunately, we lost our share. It took a complete year to understand exactly what was lost. Every season had us going back down to the basement in search of another decoration, only to find that it was swept away and trashed with all the other debris. This is a sad reality but one unavoidable leaving you to buy new things and create new memories being sure to store them in safer places this time.

A quick response to clean up and rebuilding helps drastically when recovering. When things are brought back to the way they use to be, the sense of normalcy comes back allowing you to focus on your everyday things again. When these things are drawn out for whatever reason, you are trapped in the event, causing continuing reminders of the loss and the devastation.

To further add to my point check out this article about Hurricane Ike, one year later - http://www.marionstar.com/article/20090914/UPDATES01/90914006/-1/newsfront2

A year after an event with a blue tarp still on your roof has got to be agonizing. A constant reminder of loss without closure. The article clearly addresses the insurance industry, an industry with billions and billions of dollars given by folks like us in case of an event for piece of mind if something was to happen. This lack of urgency to fix not only the possessions of the people but a portion of their lives is a complete slap in the face. We are constantly being told by the insurance industry to be prepared. In fact, I recall that my home owners insurance goes up every year. The least they can do is be there for us when we're in need.

This all serves as another example of the cracks in the system that will be filled with Each One for US All. Our approach would be a charitable donation to the town that can disperse funds directly to the people to pay contractors to do the rebuilding needed. This will bring closure to the event itself. This also will reduce the amount of claims saving millions in the long run by keeping insurance premiums at a reasonable level. More importantly, it will make the town whole again at a faster pace so people can go on living and enjoying their lives.

DD

september, friends and a coffee mug

When September rolls around it usually brings a few things to mind for me. The end of summer, football season (GO EAGLES!!!), Green Day, (thanks Billy Joe) and back to school. Wednesday night our school district hosted Back to School Night and I ran into a fellow baseball coach I hadn't seen since the beginning of summer. We stood in the hallway amongst the elementary school projects catching up on things. Talked about the kids and fall baseball and as always, work. Part of the reason we fell out of touch was our mode of communication. We, like many out there tended to only use email, this works fine until your email no longer exists. I explained the change which naturally led to the question, "So, what are you doing now?" "I am developing a non-profit for disaster relief", I replied. Suddenly, that all to familiar look came over his face,,, "Uh,,, how does one go about doing something like that?" I answered my usual way, "It's a long process but I have great support backing me up along the way" An easy reply to set my friends mind at ease. Fact is, the details of this venture are staggering.

I was up very late Wednesday night, thinking about the question posed to me and what I'm working on everyday. The research, the marketing, the details of the business plan. Building a Board of Directors, prospecting for a funding base, not to mention, the stress of keeping my family afloat as I follow this dream. I could go on and on but here's the deal. I AM NO DIFFERENT THAN ANYONE ELSE WHO HAD OR HAS A DREAM. I have the same excitement of building something with all the fears that comes along with it. I try to recognize my weaknesses and look for guidance from those who can turn them into strengths. I am driven but what I've seen and learned and the coffee mug that fuels my caffeine fix everyday pictured above, says it all. (thank you very much Gandhi)

If you see that change is needed,,,,, it's has to start somewhere. We all have the power, we just have to unleash it.

DD

P.S. September is also known as NPM or National Preparedness Month, check out the site developed by FEMA and Citizens Corps to better prepare ourselves, our children and our businesses for just about anything - http://www.ready.gov/

the new identity, t-shirts anyone?

The list seems never ending when it comes to what needs to be done when forming a new business. This especially stands true when you're choosing your identity or branding as they say. I knew from the start that Each One for US All needed something powerful, a statement of it's own. Something recognizable when seen,,,, who am I kidding, I just wanted something that would look cool on a T-Shirt. So here it is,,, I'm thinking this will work on any color shirt in one color or two as you see it but I'm open to suggestions and I'm willing to produce one for anyone who wants one. Just send me your size and mailing address in the comment section below and I'll be sure to oblige.
A huge thank you goes out to my longtime friend and colleague Leigh Woolston Karsch who created this artwork. She was able to show me in 5 minutes with a bic pen and a cocktail napkin that she understood my vision as she always seems to do. Leigh and I met in my previous life in the print world. In fact I knew her when she was only known as Leigh Woolston and she's one of those people who knows what she knows, owns it and doesn't make you feel bad about not knowing the same thing. She will take the time to help you understand but make you feel like you understood all the while. Do yourself a favor and check out her business at http://www.lapetitefleuronline.com/ Taking wedding and special event planning to a new creative level. Thanks again Leigh,,, you're too cool.

Another special thanks goes out to my one true inspiration and the love in my world, Jacqueline. You listen, you suggest, you challenge, you care, you believe. I couldn't do this without the love you show everyday. You've put me back on track so many times,,,, thanks again for this one.

DD

common sense right??

If you woke up in the morning and you noticed you had a flat tire,,, would you change the tire before you drove?
Silly question right? Of course you would, because driving a car with a flat tire would cause even more damage than the flat tire itself. Simple right? If you can take action to prevent further damage or injuries you take it.

Now take a look at the article attached.
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090907/ARTICLE/909079989/-1/NEWSSITEMAP

We have seen the effects of natural disasters, specifically hurricanes in the past. As the article states "Hurricanes pose the most dangerous, destructive and widespread natural threat to the nation". Still, when it comes to funding for solutions to reduce or eliminate damage of this type of natural disaster, we are in a reactive mode. How is it that we can afford the additional costs after the fact when we can't afford the upfront costs for prevention? More importantly, it's not just money we're talking about, there's a life factor as well. Prevention WILL SAVE LIVES!

Now is the time to look at a different approach.

DD

changing the rules

The mitigation process for natural disasters from what I gather is a staggering effort on the part of the Emergency Manager in towns across our nation. Plans must be updated on a continual basis to assure coverage and grants from FEMA. With all that said, it still gives the town no guarantee that they will be approved for funding and if they are, still no guarantee as to when the money will arrive. The waiting list is long and as time goes by, people across our country continue to deal with the events of a natural disaster sometimes years after the fact. Remember, mitigation is to help reduce or eliminate the effects of a reoccurring natural disaster, waiting for funds only guarantees that if the town is hit again, there will be nothing in place to prevent further damage, leading only to more damage.

If this wasn't hard enough to deal with, now FEMA is considering a new policy to reduce it's contributions starting on the third similar occurrence over a ten year period. Now don't get me wrong, I agree that if towns aren't using mitigation funds to actually prevent the affects of a disaster, we as tax payers shouldn't be footing the bill over and over again. However, this reduction of contribution is going to leave gaps for finding solutions and ultimately hurt the town and towns people in the process. I would think this type of pressure will only lead to more property buy-outs instead of investment in finding and implementing new solutions.

Here's the article - http://www.gsnmagazine.com/cms/features/news-analysis/2509.html

FEMA is looking for opinions on this policy change and will be accepting them until October 13th, so let your voice be heard at www.regulations.gov and citing docket number FEMA-2008-0006.

Remember, another approach to this is in the works. Each One for US All has been established to fill the void where government grants fall short or fall off completely. Now more than ever the support from each one to help all is needed. Together we can provide the funding for new ideas, solutions and a solid future.

DD

spreading the word

Like I said before, "Inspiration comes in many forms" the trick I guess is allowing yourself to be inspired.

Today I was inspired by an old friend, when I think back she is one of the people that I can say that I've known the longest in my life. We met when I was three years old, a toddler moving out of the row homes in Northeast Philadelphia, entering the new adventure of the sprawling suburbs. We were close in age and she became my sister's close friend, but we shared a lifetime as next-door neighbors growing up as we all do. Had our share of ups and downs but really experienced growing up together. She, like many others I grew up with, still refers to me as Danny, to some, that will never go away. Yesterday she reached out to me as a fellow blogger now 3,000 miles away. Her words of support reminded me once again what I'm trying to accomplish and the importance of staying on the path. I thank you Shady Lady.

This morning I awoke to yet another message from my old friend, doing not just what old friends do but doing what any inspired individual would do if they allowed themselves to be inspired. Her Blog - http://behindbigshades.blogspot.com/ had a post about me today. I encourage you to check out her blog, not just to read about me but, just to see her blog. Shady Lady has a multitude of posts and an extremely creative site. Believe me, she could find other things to write about. But she didn't today. Today she did her part, she did what she could to spread the word about something she cares about. She read my words, gets it and is doing her part to tell others. Once again I thank you Shady Lady, I am truly humbled.

This all serves as a reminder to me and hopefully to others that real change can be inspired by one but it sometimes takes many more to reach the goal. If you're tuning in to something and you like it,,, share it. If you disagree,,,, communicate that as well. The power of all this technology doesn't have to stifle our communication skills, it can and should enhance it, allowing our words to be heard, louder than ever before.

DD

the power of one

When I look back on the first day I decided to take on this new direction in my life. Two things were very clear and have kept me on my path. The simple belief that people need help and that people have the need to help others. Simple as that. They may be friends, family or complete strangers. The fact remains that when a story touches a place in your heart, it makes it impossible to just sit back, we as human beings have to get involved. This is what I call, the power of one. One event to inspire one's involvement to create one change.

One, to me, is the largest number in the world. To me, it signifies a united bond. If we all join in to support a cause, this makes us one. One force that can conquer anything.

Every non-profit has it's challenges to attract support and get people involved. This is a factor I've been dealing with as I create my organization but again it all boils down to one. I feel a natural disaster has the ability to effect each and every one of us in our live time. If you haven't been a victim yourself, I'm sure you may know a neighbor, friend or family member that has been there. We all see the donation levels to the major organizations rise right after an event but what if we created a fund to research the reasons for the tragedies themselves before they happened? What if we could champion the costs and put an end to a tragedy before it happens? Better yet,, what it we created that fund in a cost effective way, making it affordable for everyone? Again,,, I call this the power of one.

Each One for US All will accept donations based on one. Here's an example. Say you make $35,000.00 a year. You can offer a donation of 1%. Meaning that your contribution would be $350.00 a year, less than a dollar a day.

That's just one example of a donation based on one. We plan to honor any donation based on one. One percent of a products profits, one month of pay, one day of pay, one nights proceeds from an event. It's amazing what can be accomplished based on one, I can't wait to see the creative approaches contributing one to be one.

DD

katrina,,, 4 years later

What are you're memories of 4 years ago?

I remember the news coverage showing people trapped in their attics, that was scary as hell. I thought, with all the advanced notice on the storm of storms coming, how was it that so many were still in their homes?

I remember being pounded with media coverage, showing grisly images capturing the reality of the flood waters.

I remember the kids down the street having a lemonade stand so they could send the proceeds to New Orleans. We all seemed to get how huge this was and how many were in need in the storm's area.

This was the worst natural disaster of our time, killing 1600 people. Today, the towns of New Orleans, Biloxi and many in between are still in tatters, like many others across our land waiting on assistance to rebuild and restart.

The reality of 4 years and still waiting kills me,,, how long can one put their life on hold?

Please see this attached link showing the efforts of non-profits and the affects of Katrina. So much work with still so much to be done.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/08/28/rebuildling.lower.ninth.ward/index.html?section=cnn_latest

DD

gaps in the system

Here's a link that I stumbled on today, the perfect example demonstrating the situation across our country.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/28/us/28cedar.html

This is complete insanity!!! Unfortunately this is what we all have to deal with when it comes to a natural disaster. There is no good reason I could think of to have people go through this.
My heart goes out to all affected in Iowa. Sometime soon there will be a solution, a change so desperately needed.

DD

challenges??? bring it on.

In the past 2 days, I've spent time with 3 former colleagues from my past life in a different career. It was great seeing them, hearing their thoughts and talking about this new page in my life. This blog has been an awesome tool in respect to adding clarity in my approach for this new venture. I AM NOT A WRITER, things very rarely flow from my brain to my keyboard but this blog has forced me to concentrate on my thoughts so now talking about it has become that much easier. The talks I've had with these folks have inspired and reinforced why I'm doing this in the first place,,, thanks to everyone for their opinion and challenges, this has only made things better.

Forming a non-profit has one huge challenge different from forming a standard for profit business, acquiring the ever encompassing and brain racking 501(c)(3). This application form is enough to make most mortals run from the philanthropic hills and look to invest their time and money into a soft pretzel franchise. People familiar with this process have looked me square in the eye and asked "Do you really know what you're getting yourself into???" However, tax exemption is key to any public charity and luckily I have a great support team in a huge law firm doing lots of the work. They will process it for me when all my ducks are in their rows. One of the more difficult phases I am working on now to complete the application is building my Board of Directors. The Board must be established for completion of the application. This brings on it's own challenges but I am moving forward with the tools I feel will give me a better chance to attract the target Board members needed to make this venture a success.

Currently my website and logo are being developed, this has been exciting to say the least. The elements of each are so important to success of the overall feel for my venture. Tools that promote the image, values and function of this organization couldn't be more important to it's success. Seeing the website and logo concepts come to life adds a reality to all the work I've invested into this organization, one step closer to being real when I see them coming together. I am actually going back and forth with my designer as I type this to finalize my logo,,, can't wait to share it with the world.

DD

the plan

Experience and research has convinced me that we need a new way to deal with natural disasters in this country. Our government as well as the majority of all disaster relief organizations are reactive to events that occur almost everyday. This approach is absolutely needed when a disaster strikes however, a plan to reduce the effects or to eliminate the recurrence of events, prior to the events happening must be put in place. A new approach to disaster relief.

Each One for US All has combined the reactive and proactive approach to offer a complete service to those affected by a natural disaster, here is the plan.

To provided immediate funding for relief of victims. To supply immediate grants to cover unexpected costs for life’s basic necessities. Funding for food, shelter, security, equipment and work force to allow a cushion that will lessen the immediate effects of a natural disaster. We further dedicate our cause to continue the effort after the tragedy. To provide funding for education and finding solutions. Funding those solutions to alleviate or eliminate recurrence. To further discuss plans in place to reduce the effects of reoccurring disasters and to champion those projects without government intervention. To work with planners to provide resources to help in their efforts to rebuild smarter and faster. To monitor the ongoing events within our country to be proactive in providing our resources. To develop knowledge from past experiences and develop educational tools to help prepare for future events.

Like I mentioned earlier, a reactive approach is necessary, fact is, you can't fully predict what a town will need or the exact damage they may experience so monitoring daily events will give us the ability to reach out, determine the need and provide immediate funding. This gives the town the resources to provide for their citizens without dipping into their own coffers set aside for other things. This funding will always be needed as a reactive solution.

The proactive approach to me is a far more important need and the gap in our system. Towns across the country, much like the town I live in, know that some kind of disaster WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. Whether it's flooding, wildfires, tornadoes, mudslides,,,, pick a disaster, any disaster, there are ways to alleviate the effects. Whether it's to better prepare for the event such as building a new shelter or purchasing more buses to get people to the shelter. Or to build something to prevent the disaster, like a new dam or retaining wall, this will reduce the costs when the disaster happens and more importantly let people get back to the normalcy in their lives faster. In all cases and our ultimate goal will be to eliminate the recurrence.

As of today, there have been over 40 federally declared disasters in our country in 2009. Through FEMA, billions of dollars have been spent on clean-up and rebuilding efforts. FEMA's spending also covers, pre-disaster mitigation programs. These programs deal with prevention but tend to offer property buy-outs for open space. This happened in my town and 2 properties were purchased leaving holes in the neighborhood, one has been turned into a community garden. This approach also took away tax base from the town, leaving the rest of us to pick up the costs. FEMA will also pick up costs to retro-fit existing buildings and elevation of at risk buildings but the process is long. The research I've done with Emergency Managers across the country tells the same story of double and triple work to justify the funding and in some cases after all the work, they are still left without the funding. Three years after our last flood we, as a town, just received funding for 4 more homes along the river. Three years????? Also, in our current economic state and deficit at record levels,,, can we actually expect that the government will be able to provide this funding? Again, my research says no. Spending cuts will be forced on FEMA, leaving them to provide on a reactive basis as a government needs to but will reduce the plan for prevention or at least reduce the spending in that arena.

DD

let's catch up

If you've been following the blog, what you've seen is the inspiration for what I'm trying to accomplish. If this is your first time,,,, here's the gist.

I have had 3 first hand encounters with natural disasters, that is 3 floods in the town I live in within 18 months. I did my part to help the community, was inspired by the others in the community and I'm currently disillusioned with the support we all have in our communities within this great country to fight the recurrence of natural disasters. Believe me,,, I am not saying we can stop a tornado or a flood from happening. All I'm saying is that there are gaps in our structure in dealing with such recurrences.

We as a society deal with these situations on a reactive basis. I guess it goes back to the old theory, "Don't fix it if it ain't broken". Frankly,,, it all boils down to what side you're viewing from. I'm not taking away from those who lend a hand to help their fellow neighbor when they are in need. A flood hits, you jump in and work, the waters return to normal and your life goes on. I get it because I've lived that. What I'm saying is there's a need to look closer at the causes of the disasters themselves and do more to eliminate recurrences.

Take a look at this link - http://www.buckslocalnews.com/articles/2008/01/17/archives/20080117-archivejrc-21.txt

An early warning system to the residents of the town. Speakers placed on telephone poles to warn us of the impending doom. I can tell you that I still live within this community and to this day almost 20 months later, there are no speakers, in fact, three years removed from the last flood, some people,,,,, have forgotten. Not the folks that were hit over and over again. Not the people who still haven't received the funding to elevate their homes. Believe me, these people are thinking about that river and canal differently than most every time they see them and although an early warning system may give folks enough time to bring their belongings to higher ground, a proposal to eliminate the recurrence of the flood would do more. Take a look at this article, I was shocked to find out about a proposal dating back to the 60's to eliminate recurrence but here it was being discussed again after the fact, as a reaction to the most recent problem.
http://www.buckslocalnews.com/articles/2005/06/09/pennington_post/top%20stories/14666490.txt

This first hand encounter led me to dig a little about other towns. If we, this small river community in PA had a solution in place and no way to pay for it,,,, maybe we weren't alone. Maybe towns across our country are in the same boat. Solutions in place without a way to get them completed. Here's the gap in our system I've been referring to and I believe I have a solution.

DD

Dan,,, they're evacuating the town again

Those were the exact words as I pulled into the resort in Orlando, late June 2006. I took a deep breath,,,, the family just drove 17 hours and were looking for a little leg stretching time out of the confinements of the family van. We checked into the beautiful Caribe Royale and found our room. This was my families first 2 week vacation EVER and suddenly I'm faced with the reality of another major flood hitting Yardley now 1700 miles away.

In the back of my mind I kept thinking that maybe this wouldn't hit our portion of the town,,, maybe we'd be lucky like we were during the first hit a mere 18 months prior. I tried to relax, found the remote and flipped on the tube as the family browsed the resort to get a feel of our surroundings. Surfing the channels, I was drawn in by a familiar site on CNN. The reporter was standing on the end of Afton Road just 3 blocks from my house,,, the view of the Delaware in the background, running high and extremely fast wasn't new to me it was just something I had a hard time dealing with while on so called,,,,, vacation.

Keep in mind,,, this was late June 2006. Since the last flood of Yardley in April 2005, we all experienced the wrath of Hurricane Katrina and the reality of how a catastrophe could happen. Think about it,,, all the weather reports and radar and all the technology in the world told the people of New Orleans what was coming and still our federal government, local governments in New Orleans and Biloxi and the people as a whole weren't prepared. The storm, like many others before came, did it's business and left the government and anyone else who cared to pick up the pieces after the fact. Scared to death almost captures the emotions.

I kept receiving updates from friends and neighbors about the events going through Yardley as I made the best of the vacation. Truth is, I realized that with the town evacuated, there was nothing much to think about,,, when the town was let back in, I would know what was actually going on.

Day 3,,,, "Dan,,, the good news is that they have let us back in our homes,,,,, the bad news,,,,, sorry to say but there is about 4 feet of water in your basement again" That call came when I was in the China section of Epcot. Funny when I think about that, 1700 miles as well as half a world away from reality at the same time. We finished our visit and went back to the resort. I booked the first flight in the AM back to Yardley to do what I needed to do.

Arriving in town was the all to familiar site at this point, mud everywhere, personal belongings on the curb sides, Red Cross vans handing out water and sandwiches. Neighbors of mine were kind enough to start the pump in my basement so the water was just about gone when I arrived. Fact of the matter was that we were getting good at this around Yardley, we had our share of practice and we could get our surroundings water free and ready for power to be replaced with the workforce we developed, friends helping friends. The real scary thing is that the areas closer to the river and canal were virtually destroyed again. some of these folks now lost their homes 3 times in 18-20 months. How the government responded was even scarier.

Let me first say that FEMA did provide for the people who had flood insurance. In a flood plain you can't hold a mortgage without flood insurance and it covers belongings above the first floor and things in basements that belong in basements. Adjusters spent weeks in our town taking reports and checks were cut. That portion I can say went smoothly, as smooth as one could expect. However, being as this was the 3rd flood in our area, FEMA did what it usually does. FEMA started looking at properties to be purchased and turned into open space. And believe me, when you've been hit so severely in such a short period of time, the prospect of leaving sounds good, sure,,, pay for my property and I'll go to higher ground. Unfortunately, this brings on it's own problems to towns.

What kept troubling me in this whole process is, I saw the money that was going out to make repairs, I was reimbursed for basement items twice totaling more than I paid in premiums and my payout was small in comparison to an entire house full of belongings that some folks lost three times. I kept remembering the articles and the town meetings with the prospect of a solution to end the floods. This to me made so much more sense. I am sure the cost to prevent recurrence would cost less than paying out insurance claims every time this happened. And from the looks of things,,, it WILL happen again.

DD

the waters return

Just seven months after the the flood of 2004, the waters returned with a vengeance. This time the water level rose so high that the canal running through Yardley was breached, now forcing a new flow of destruction throughout the borough. Unlike the first flood, now my property and my immediate neighbors were suddenly victims,,, a total of 250 or so homes affected.

It is unnerving to say the least when you walk into 4 feet of water in your basement but I still considered myself to be one of the lucky ones, the folks who were originally hit just seven months ago were hit again, some losing their homes for the second time. I couldn't imagine the feelings they were going through, how this quaint river town had turned against them, leaving them to pick up the pieces twice in less than a year.

Again, the human spirit rose from the carnage. We all, as a neighborhood went to work for ourselves and for the ones we call friends. One neighbor rented a pump, the other purchased a generator, a purchase of a power washer and away we went. Lending ourselves to each other we created an unrelenting workforce going from home to home to ease the pain of the reality of our situation. Hard work never felt so rewarding, everyone doing their part to ensure we would get back to some sense of normalcy as soon as possible.

I remember the overhead shot in our local newspaper, the beautiful homes looking like tiny man made islands in the newly widened Delaware River. Shocking to see but it really gave you the true perspective of the power of mother nature. All of the local newspapers had their view but now the stories started to change. The big question on every one's mind was why. why was it that a hundred year flood zone was now hit twice in seven months?
Another big question was how can we stop this from happening? (http://www.buckslocalnews.com/articles/2005/06/09/pennington_post/top%20stories/14666520.txt) The local politicians vowed their undying support expressing our plight to the Federal Government and promised the we would be taken care of, insurance claims would be paid and they would begin to rebuild houses. The waters again receded and lives in our little town went on. Not the same as it was before the tragedy but time as they say, heals all wounds. Still inside we all worried about the next time and what that would be like.

DD

true inspiration

Each One for US All was an inspiration that started from a personal experience. One day my town of Yardley, PA was hit by a pretty serious flood, affecting the areas of our town close to the banks of the Delaware River. This flood didn't actually affect any of my personal belongings but I was affected personally. First hand I saw the displacement of families, the wonderment of outsiders and how something so terrible could bring out something so inspiring,,, the core of what we are as human beings, the need to help others who are less fortunate.

My wife Jacqueline is a great person, some call her a saint based on her everyday activities at our daycare but bottom line, she is a great person. That one day in September she showed me how one person can change many by just offering to help.

During what was suppose to be her 40th Birthday bash, planned for months but falling just days after the flood, she couldn't just celebrate as others in our town were devastated. She decided to utilize her celebration as a central meeting place in our town to connect people, people in need and people who wanted to help. No technology, just a table on the corner of our street with a piece of paper, one side showing people's needs, the other, what people could offer. We purchased a roll of raffle tickets for a 50/50 and invited all to take their minds off of the flood, grab a bite to eat and connect with those eager to help. With amazement, a buzz was created and we found ourselves being bombarded with support and offerings to help those truly affected. People donated sofas from their living rooms, beds from guestrooms, televisions, appliances, toys, clothes,,,, the list went on and on, we crammed a garage donated by a local church and spread the word.

We spent night after night manning the garage as the donations poured in and townspeople picked from the items to get their lives back in order, a true testament of how we need to help others but more importantly, how we want to help others. The flood waters receded but the flood of human spirit grew and changed me forever.

DD

the journey

When you're inspired by something, you should go with it. When you're consumed with an idea you should make it real. I'm not one to live my life with regrets so I'm working on making a change. A change that is needed, a change for good.

A good friend and colleague suggested this blog to document my journey and I thank her again for pushing me in this direction.

This blog will be a running journal of my day to day experiences in making my change, my contribution, my hope for something better.

Each One for US All is a non-profit organization for disaster relief. My vision based on first hand events and the never ending need throughout this country for a new way to deal with these situations. As of today, I am still at the beginning phases of making this a reality. I am currently in the process of aquiring tax exempt status, building my board, figuring projections and working with a wonderful designer and writer to make clear my direction.

This is my journey and I welcome all along for the ride.

DD

P.S. Happy 8th Birthday to my Pumpkin Pie, Laurel Ann