When news of a tragedy like that which took place in Las Vegas hits, our first thoughts are always of the victims. The children who have lost their parents. The mothers who have lost sons. The fathers who have lost daughters. The lost brothers, sisters and friends. The wounded and the community that faces grief together.
Our second thoughts are for the helpers – the first-responders, the caring strangers, the nonprofits on the ground working and the philanthropists who give of themselves to provide for others. In them, we see the best of humanity. It is through coming together in our worst times that we survive, and thrive, and recover.
Below is a list of organizations working to aid the victims and families of the Las Vegas shooting. For more ideas of how to help, please contact your philanthropic officer.
- Nevada Community Foundation will establish a fund to serve as a temporary vehicle for charitable donations intended to provide relief and financial support for the victims and families of the Las Vegas shooting. Checks may be made payable to Nevada Community Foundation with the memo line to read “The Las Vegas Victims’ Fund”. Note: As soon as The Las Vegas Victims’ Fund established by Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak obtains its 501(c)3 public charity status, the Nevada Community Foundation will immediately transfer its temporary fund to the new charitable entity.
- The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Music City Cares Fund is helping with the immediate and long-term needs of victims in the Las Vegas shooting.
- University Medical Center of Southern Nevada is providing ongoing support for victims’ medical needs and the Level 1 Trauma center.
- Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada provides free health services, including mental health services, to individuals without insurance.
Photo credit: Joseph Hunkins via Flickr (Creative Commons)