Points of Light Institute Helps Raise Over $1.4 Million for Japanese Relief Efforts

Japanese Ambassador Ichiro Fuisaki joins a star-studded event celebrating President George H. W. Bush's life of service

WASHINGTON, March 22, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Last night, Ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki of Japan joined Points of Light Institute and all four former presidents at the Kennedy Center for "All Together Now: A Celebration of Service" in honor of President George H. W. Bush and volunteer service to thank the American people for their outpouring and generosity.  President George W. Bush recognized Ambassador Fujisaki during the program, and assured him that the American people would continue to support his nation in the aftermath of the disastrous earthquake and tsunami.  

Points of Light Institute has helped raise more than $1.4 million for Japanese relief efforts through MissionFish, a division of Points of Light that allows people to direct a portion of their online sales and purchases to their favorite charities. Of the $1.4 million, more than $170,000 has been designated by donors to specifically fund the volunteer efforts of Hands On Tokyo, an affiliate of Points of Light Institute, which is working with other U.S. and Japanese-based non-profits to support a major supply chain into the most devastated regions of the country.  In addition, Points of Light Institute and HandsOn Network are working with other partners on the ground to develop projects to support the international volunteer response.

About Points of Light Institute

Points of Light Institute inspires, equips and mobilizes people to take action that changes the world. The Institute has a global focus to redefine volunteerism and civic engagement for the 21st century, putting people at the center of community problem-solving. It is organized to innovate, incubate and activate new ideas that help people act upon their power to make a difference. To that end, Points of Light operates several dynamic business units that help it fulfill its mission: HandsOn Network, MissionFish and the Civic Incubator, along with AmeriCorps Alums and generationOn, its new global youth service division.

CONTACT:  Erica Stanley
202-295-0155
[email protected]

SOURCE Points of Light Institute