The Donkey Sanctuary Pandora's Kharis cause for Poseideon

It was an easy choice this month: the only pitch was for The Donkey Sanctuary, and rightfully so as it had been pitched three times already!

The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE and supports projects in 27 countries worldwide. It reaches out to those in greatest need through the provision of permanent refuge and veterinary services to alleviate their suffering. Over 50 million donkeys and mules exist in the world. Many need care and protection from a life of suffering and neglect, whilst others have a vital role to play in human survival and happiness; they are at the heart of everything they do at The Donkey Sanctuary.

 

£3 will cover the cost of looking after one rescued donkey at the sanctuary in Sidmouth for half a day. £5 will keep their rescue vehicles on the road for an hour – saving donkeys from terrible conditions. £20 will pay for one visit from the farrier to trim long and painful hooves and treat uncomfortable foot conditions. £30 will help fund a visit from the equine dentist to rasp teeth and remove any uncomfortable sharp edges. £50 will stock their medical supplies for one day to treat sick and injured donkeys overseas. How much do you think we can give them by the end of the month?

 

The deadline to donate is January 9, 2016. You can do so by using the PayPal option to the side or by donating directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com. Thank you in advance!

$57,- raised for Animal Defenders International

We are very proud do announce that the members of Pandora's Kharis have contributed $57,- for Animal Defenders International this month. Animal Defenders International (ADI) is a major international campaigning group, with offices in London, Los Angeles and Bogota, who lobby to protect animals on issues such as animals in entertainment and their use in experiments; worldwide traffic in endangered species; factory farming; pollution and conservation.

The organization has been involved with several international animal rescues, funding both the relocation and rehoming of circus lions, tigers, chimpanzees and other animals and has become a major force for animal protection, succeeding through its undercover investigations in securing legal protection for animals.

From this moment on, pitches are open on the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page. You can vote for your desired cause until December 21, 2015. Thank you in advance!

Animal Defenders International Pandora's Kharis cause for Maimakterion

With sixty percent of the votes, Animal Defenders International has become Pandora's Kharis' Maimakterion cause. Animal Defenders International (ADI) is a major international campaigning group, with offices in London, Los Angeles and Bogota, who lobby to protect animals on issues such as animals in entertainment and their use in experiments; worldwide traffic in endangered species; factory farming; pollution and conservation.

The organization has been involved with several international animal rescues, funding both the relocation and rehoming of circus lions, tigers, chimpanzees and other animals and has become a major force for animal protection, succeeding through its undercover investigations in securing legal protection for animals.

The deadline to donate is December 12, 2015. You can do so by using the 'PayPal option to the side or by donating directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com. Thank you in advance!

Nominees Maimakterion 2015

For Maimakterion 2015, we have three great causes to choose from, submitted by our members. Two focus on animal rights and wellfare, and the other focussess on the homeless of New Orleans.


Animal Defenders International
Animal Defenders International (ADI) is a major international campaigning group, with offices in London, Los Angeles and Bogota, who lobby to protect animals on issues such as animals in entertainment and their use in experiments; worldwide traffic in endangered species; factory farming; pollution and conservation.

The organization has been involved with several international animal rescues, funding both the relocation and rehoming of circus lions, tigers, chimpanzees and other animals and has become a major force for animal protection, succeeding through its undercover investigations in securing legal protection for animals.

The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE and supports projects in 27 countries worldwide. It reaches out to those in greatest need through the provision of permanent refuge and veterinary services to alleviate their suffering. Over 50 million donkeys and mules exist in the world. Many need care and protection from a life of suffering and neglect, whilst others have a vital role to play in human survival and happiness; they are at the heart of everything they do at The Donkey Sanctuary.

 

 

The New Orleans Vampire Association

The New Orleans Vampire Association (NOVA) is non-profit organization comprised of self-identifying vampires representing an alliance between Houses within the Community in the Greater New Orleans Area. Founded in 2005, NOVA was established to provide support and structure for the vampire and other-kin subcultures and to provide educational and charitable outreach to those in need.

 

NOVA is composed of artists, priests, mystics, lawyers, teachers, writers, parents, married couples and single individuals. NOVA as a group cuts across the socio-economic and ethnic spectrum. Like the legends of the vampire that the members invest in as a personal reality, NOVA finds its members in every segment of life.

 

Do you have a favourite out of these three? Vote for your favourite in our poll until December 1. We will announce this month's winner on December 2, 2015.

$31,- raised for SyrianAid

In another somewhat slow but still succesful fundsraiser, the members of Pandora's Kharis have contributed $31,- for SyrianAid this month.

SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid , Aid to Syria Association) is an Organization that provides Humanitarian Aid in Syria. In order to provide personal and direct aid to the victims of the conflict in Syria, a group of doctors, engineers, archaeologists, teachers, and artists came together to found the charitable organization SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid).

The foundation works primarily inside Syria, but also in Lebanon and Turkey, to provide humanitarian and emergency aid to Syrian refugees. They undertake and support various self-help projects as well as training and education projects. And as far as they are able, they help with the care of orphans in Syria.

The aid SyriaAid provides is purely humanitarian and without any political motivation. Thanks to your donation and to the tireless engagement of our local helpers, they hope to deliver direct aid to as many people in Syria as possible. They aim to provide the victims of this crisis not only with food, clothing, lodgings, and medical services, but to give them psychological and moral support as well, to help them reestablish their sense of dignity. To give them support and to show them: You are not forgotten!

From this moment on, pitches are open on the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page. You can vote for your desired cause until November 22, 2015. Thank you in advance!

SyrianAid Pyanepsia 2015 cause

We are very happy to announce that SyrianAid has become Pandora's Kharis' Pyanepsia 2015 cause!

SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid , Aid to Syria Association) is an Organization that provides Humanitarian Aid in Syria. In order to provide personal and direct aid to the victims of the conflict in Syria, a group of doctors, engineers, archaeologists, teachers, and artists came together to found the charitable organization SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid).

The foundation works primarily inside Syria, but also in Lebanon and Turkey, to provide humanitarian and emergency aid to Syrian refugees. They undertake and support various self-help projects as well as training and education projects. And as far as they are able, they help with the care of orphans in Syria.

The aid SyriaAid provides is purely humanitarian and without any political motivation. Thanks to your donation and to the tireless engagement of our local helpers, they hope to deliver direct aid to as many people in Syria as possible. They aim to provide the victims of this crisis not only with food, clothing, lodgings, and medical services, but to give them psychological and moral support as well, to help them reestablish their sense of dignity. To give them support and to show them: You are not forgotten!

The deadline to donate is November 13, 2015. You can do so by using the 'PayPal option to the side or by donating directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com. Thank you in advance!

$31,- raised for Doctors of the World Greece

It was a bit of a slow (and short notice) fundsraiser, but $ 31,- have been raised for Doctors of the World Greece. Thank you for your donations, if you have made one!

Médecins du Monde / Doctors of the World is an international Non – Governmental, independent, humanitarian organization, which was founded in 1980 by 15 French doctors that believed in bearing witness and providing direct access to medical care for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

The first and foremost mission of Médecins du Monde is to provide treatment. Actions though are not limited to medical care: always based on its medical experience and acting independently, MdM is vocal against the obstruction of access to healthcare and the violation of human rights and dignity. Firm supporters of human rights, they are against racism, xenophobia and the social isolation and marginalization of social groups.

These are the principles underlying the establishment of the organization «Médecins du Monde» which later began to spread in other countries (Argentina, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA), creating an international network of Humanitarian Relief organizations dedicated to provide medical care to populations while fighting for equal access to healthcare worldwide. MdM has become today an integral and important part of the international network of Non-Governmental Humanitarian Organizations.

From this moment on, pitches are open on the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page. You can vote for your desired cause until October 22, 2015. Thank you in advance!

Doctors of the World Greece Boudromion 2015 cause

With 71 percent of votes, Doctors of the World Greece has become Pandora's Kharis cause for Boudromion 2015. Thank you once more for your vote!

Médecins du Monde / Doctors of the World is an international Non – Governmental, independent, humanitarian organization, which was founded in 1980 by 15 French doctors that believed in bearing witness and providing direct access to medical care for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

The first and foremost mission of Médecins du Monde is to provide treatment. Actions though are not limited to medical care: always based on its medical experience and acting independently, MdM is vocal against the obstruction of access to healthcare and the violation of human rights and dignity. Firm supporters of human rights, they are against racism, xenophobia and the social isolation and marginalization of social groups.

These are the principles underlying the establishment of the organization «Médecins du Monde» which later began to spread in other countries (Argentina, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA), creating an international network of Humanitarian Relief organizations dedicated to provide medical care to populations while fighting for equal access to healthcare worldwide. MdM has become today an integral and important part of the international network of Non-Governmental Humanitarian Organizations.

We'll leave the possibility to donate open a little longer this time. The deadline to do so is October 15, 2015. You can do so by using the 'PayPal option to the side or by donating directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com. Thank you in advance!

Nominees Boedromion 2015

For Boedromion 2015, we have three great causes to choose from, submitted by our members. Two are related to the refugee situation and Syria, the other is Pagan related.


Doctors of the World Greece
Médecins du Monde / Doctors of the World is an international Non – Governmental, independent, humanitarian organization, which was founded in 1980 by 15 French doctors that believed in bearing witness and providing direct access to medical care for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

The first and foremost mission of Médecins du Monde is to provide treatment. Actions though are not limited to medical care: always based on its medical experience and acting independently, MdM is vocal against the obstruction of access to healthcare and the violation of human rights and dignity. Firm supporters of human rights, they are against racism, xenophobia and the social isolation and marginalization of social groups.

These are the principles underlying the establishment of the organization «Médecins du Monde» which later began to spread in other countries (Argentina, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA), creating an international network of Humanitarian Relief organizations dedicated to provide medical care to populations while fighting for equal access to healthcare worldwide. MdM has become today an integral and important part of the international network of Non-Governmental Humanitarian Organizations.

SyrianAid
SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid , Aid to Syria Association) is an Organization that provides Humanitarian Aid in Syria. In order to provide personal and direct aid to the victims of the conflict in Syria, a group of doctors, engineers, archaeologists, teachers, and artists came together to found the charitable organization SyrienHilfe e.V. (SyriaAid).

The foundation works primarily inside Syria, but also in Lebanon and Turkey, to provide humanitarian and emergency aid to Syrian refugees. They undertake and support various self-help projects as well as training and education projects. And as far as they are able, they help with the care of orphans in Syria.

The aid SyriaAid provides is purely humanitarian and without any political motivation. Thanks to your donation and to the tireless engagement of our local helpers, they hope to deliver direct aid to as many people in Syria as possible. They aim to provide the victims of this crisis not only with food, clothing, lodgings, and medical services, but to give them psychological and moral support as well, to help them reestablish their sense of dignity. To give them support and to show them: You are not forgotten!

The Wild Hunt
The Wild Hunt is primary destination for those interested in following news relating and of interest to modern Pagan religions and other minority faiths. Founded by Jason Pitzl-Waters in 2004, The Wild Hunt has grown to become one of the most-visited and popular destinations exploring these topics. Recruited to Patheos.com in the Summer of 2011, The Wild Hunt decided to exist as an independent entity once more in the Summer of 2012. In addition, The Wild Hunt has now expanded into a media outlet with paid contributors and three paid staff members.

Every year, The Wild Hunt organises a Fall Funding Drive, and this year, they are asking for a base budget of $15,000 dollars to run for another year, and are hoping that supporters will help them not only meet this goal, but surpass it and allow them to do even more. $15,000 dollars will allow The Wild hunt to pay their hosting bills for another year, pay their staff, and cover other expenses related to running the website.

The Wild Hunt has a proven track record that stretches over nearly ten years, and over those years they've become an essential news source and inspired many to create their own media. They've interviewed big-name Pagans like Margot Adler and Starhawk, reported on controversies and inspirational moments that have affected our community deeply, and acted as a watchdog when the mainstream media reports on modern Pagans and other minority faith traditions. However, the commitment, time, and energy needed to make this sustainable can only happen if others in the community are willing to step forward and help them fund it.


Do you have a favourite out of these five? Vote for your favourite in our poll until October 9. We will announce this month's winner on October 10, 2015.

$125,- raised for The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK)

In an inspiring push, Pandora's Kharis members have come together to raise $125,- for The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK). I am once more very happy to be able to say you have all given generously, and in the spirit of the Gods!

The money will be used to award scholarships for post-graduate studies in British Universities to students of Hellenic ethnicity, of moderate means, who have obtained a first-class degree or equivalent in their previous studies from reputable universities.

As there is currently not a possibility to donate directly, we are in talks with GACUK to get the money transferred. Of course, we will keep you informed!

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community. On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity!

The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK) Hekatombaion 2015 cause

With an overwhelming majority vote, The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK) has become Padora's Kharis' cause for Hekatombaion 2015!

 

 

The Greek Archaeological Committee, thereafter referred to as GACUK, was founded in London in the autumn of 1986 on the 150th anniversary of the Greek Archaeological Society at Athens, with which it is associated.

The founders of GACUK believe that the history and archaeology of Greece are important assets of Western culture and a better understanding of them is essential to a deeper appreciation of the shaping of the modern world. GACUK considers therefore that the dissemination of information on current archaeological work in Greece to British academics and the public at large and the resulting international recognition of this work is of great importance.

GACUK awards scholarships for post-graduate studies in British Universities to students of Hellenic ethnicity, of moderate means, who have obtained a first-class degree or equivalent in their previous studies from reputable universities.

Donating to the Pandora's Kharis' fundraiser for this cause can be done by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. The deadline to donate is 16 August. Thank you in advance!

Nominees Hekatombaion 2015

This month, we do a round-up of worthy causes which have been selected by the members of Pandora's Kharis in 2015 but which did not make it in the votes.


The League Against Cruel Sports
The League Against Cruel Sports is the leading UK charity helping to prevent cruelty to animals associated with sports such as fox hunting, game bird shooting and wildlife crime. Over nine decades of campaigning, the League has developed effective ways to thwart such sports through calling form and bringing about, legislative change; educating the general public and gaining public support for the issues at hand; and causing difficulty for the people inflicting cruelty. All these actions help animals on a day-to-day basis. But there is always more to do. They rely on public support to carry out their work, which includes campaigning to keep the Hunting Ban and preventing illegal hunting with dogs which, despite the Hunting Act, is still happening around the UK.

 

The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE and supports projects in 27 countries worldwide. It reaches out to those in greatest need through the provision of permanent refuge and veterinary services to alleviate their suffering. Over 50 million donkeys and mules exist in the world. Many need care and protection from a life of suffering and neglect, whilst others have a vital role to play in human survival and happiness; they are at the heart of everything they do at The Donkey Sanctuary.

Feeding America
In the United States, 1 in 6 people struggles with hunger. For 35 years now, Feeding America's mission is to feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage America in the fight to end hunger. Today, Feeding America is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization—a powerful and efficient network of 200 food banks across the country. As food insecurity rates hold steady at the highest levels ever, the Feeding America network of food banks has risen to meet the need. They feed 46.5 million people at risk of hunger, including 12 million children and seven million seniors.

The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK)
The Greek Archaeological Committee, thereafter referred to as GACUK, was founded in London in the autumn of 1986 on the 150th anniversary of the Greek Archaeological Society at Athens, with which it is associated. The founders of GACUK believe that the history and archaeology of Greece are important assets of Western culture and a better understanding of them is essential to a deeper appreciation of the shaping of the modern world. GACUK awards scholarships for post-graduate studies in British Universities to students of Hellenic ethnicity, of moderate means, who have obtained a first-class degree or equivalent in their previous studies from reputable universities.

Save The Children
Save the Children invests in childhood – every day, in times of crisis and for our future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. By transforming children's lives now, we change the course of their future and ours. Save the Children is currently on the ground providing critical help and health relief, working with health ministries in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea to help fight the Ebola outbreak. This cause builds Ebola health centers, cares for orphans, trains health workers and provides protective kits and essential medical equipment. Your generous donation could help ensure that they reach vulnerable children.

Do you have a favourite out of these five? Vote for your favourite in our poll until August 5. We will announce this month's winner on August 6, 2015.

$86,- raised for 'Project Prentenboek'

I am very happy to anounce that 80 euros (roughly 86 dollars) was raised for Project Prentenboek (project picturebook) during this month's fundsraiser. You have made me very, very proud, and very happy. Thank you very much!

 

Project picturebook is the initiative of Maaike Kramer and Marjolein Witte, Dutch artists and art teachers, who are working hard to crowdfund a new project. They are in the process of creating a picturebook for and by refugee children in The Netherlands (although the book will be translated into many languages after publishing (including English, Arabic, and French)). They came into contact with these kids after being asked by the local government to make a mural at the refugee centre and afterwards they just wanted to do... more. So they started teaching art classes at the kids' school and now they will use their stories and their drawing in a picture book that is meant to help non-refugee children (and adults) understand these kids, and for refugee children to see themselves reflected in the pages of a beautiful book.

 

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community. On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving.

'Project Prentenboek' Skirophorion 2015 cause

With 86 percent of voted, Project Prentenboek (project picturebook) has become Pandora's Kharis' cause for Skirophorion 2015.

 

Project picturebook is the initiative of Maaike Kramer and Marjolein Witte, Dutch artists and art teachers, who are working hard to crowdfund a new project. They are in the process of creating a picturebook for and by refugee children in The Netherlands (although the book will be translated into many languages after publishing (including English, Arabic, and French)). They came into contact with these kids after being asked by the local government to make a mural at the refugee centre and afterwards they just wanted to do... more. So they started teaching art classes at the kids' school and now they will use their stories and their drawing in a picture book that is meant to help non-refugee children (and adults) understand these kids, and for refugee children to see themselves reflected in the pages of a beautiful book.

Of course a project like that needs money. Books need to be printed, materials bought, and people paid to do the lay-out and translations. Total costs: about 6000,- euros. They have made sixty percent so far and we will help them push their total even further.

Donating to the Pandora's Kharis' fundraiser for this cause can be done by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. The deadline to donate is 17 July. Thank you in advance!

Nominees Skirophorion 2015

Another round of pitches has completed and once more, two worthy causes have been selected by the members of Pandora's Kharis.


Project Prentenboek (Project Picture book)
Maaike Kramer and Marjolein Witte, Dutch artists and art teachers, are working hard to crowdfund a new project. They are in the process of creating a picturebook for and by refugee children in The Netherlands (although the book will be translated into many languages after publishing (including English, Arabic, and French)). They came into contact with these kids after being asked by the local government to make a mural at the refugee centre and afterwards they just wanted to do... more. So they started teaching art classes at the kids' school and now they will use their stories and their drawing in a picture book that is meant to help non-refugee children (and adults) understand these kids, and for refugee children to see themselves reflected in the pages of a beautiful book.

Of course a project like that needs money. Books need to be printed, materials bought, and people paid to do the lay-out and translations. Total costs: about 6000,- euros. They have made about half so far and I would like to help them push their total even further.

The League Against Cruel Sports
The League Against Cruel Sports is the leading UK charity helping to prevent cruelty to animals associated with sports such as fox hunting, game bird shooting and wildlife crime. Over nine decades of campaigning, the League has developed effective ways to thwart such sports through calling form and bringing about, legislative change; educating the general public and gaining public support for the issues at hand; and causing difficulty for the people inflicting cruelty. All these actions help animals on a day-to-day basis. But there is always more to do.

They rely on public support to carry out their work, which includes campaigning to keep the Hunting Ban and preventing illegal hunting with dogs which, despite the Hunting Act, is still happening around the UK.

 

You may cast your vote here or in the comments until July 18, 2015. Thank you!

$65,- raised for the fundraiser for the Bakcheion

With another successful donation run, we have raised $65,- for the fundraiser for the Bakcheion, raising the total to $741,-! Formed with the sole intent of hosting a Dionysian ritual at Many Gods West 2015, the Bakcheion includes members from all over the United States and the polytheist and pagan spectrums. The ritual will be held on the 1st of August at the conference hotel. The ritual will be open to registered participants and conference members. It will include a devotional performance, music and offerings in honour of Dionysos and His retinue.

I would like to thank you for your generosity, and for bringing the goal a little closer for the many volunteers working on this event. From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community. On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving.

Fundraiser for the Bakcheion Thargelion 2015 cause

With roughly 88 percent of the votes, the fundraiser for the Bakcheion has won out for Pandora's Kharis cause for Thargelia 2015. Bakcheion (Βακχεῖον) is a sacred guild honoring Dionysos Bakcheios, the God of ecstatic deliverance. Formed with the sole intent of hosting a Dionysian ritual at Many Gods West 2015, the Bakcheion includes members from all over the United States and the polytheist and pagan spectrums. The ritual will be held on the 1st of August at the conference hotel. The ritual will be open to registered participants and conference members. It will include a devotional performance, music and offerings in honour of Dionysos and His retinue.

This sacred act is dedicated to Dionysos with the intent of honoring and pleasing our beloved god. However, this ritual will also be an opportunity for pagan community members to come together in joint celebration; some, for the first time. Participants come from different backgrounds, but a majority are members of The Thiasos of the Starry Bull, making this the first live Thiasos ritual.

The Bakcheion consists of volunteers with members offering their services for free and out of their own pockets. As some relief, the organisation is calling for donations to help cover member travel expenses, accommodation and performance costs; including props and materials, libations /offerings and whatever other expenses. If donations exceed the asking amount--$3,270--it will be distributed back into supporting the polytheist community.

Apart from donating to the cause, spreading the word is of great value. The organisers are also offering unique, original designed t-shirts and apparel on CafePress with any revenue going towards the cause. If you want direct involvement, feel free to join them.

Donating to the Pandora's Kharis' fundraiser for this cause can be done by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. The deadline to donate is 17 June. Thank you in advance!

Nominees Thargelion 2015

Another round of pitches has completed and once more, two worthy causes have been selected by the members of Pandora's Kharis.


Fundraiser for the Bakcheion
Bakcheion (Βακχεῖον) is a sacred guild honoring Dionysos Bakcheios, the God of ecstatic deliverance. Formed with the sole intent of hosting a Dionysian ritual at Many Gods West 2015, the Bakcheion includes members from all over the United States and the polytheist and pagan spectrums. The ritual will be held on the 1st of August at the conference hotel. The ritual will be open to registered participants and conference members. It will include a devotional performance, music and offerings in honour of Dionysos and His retinue.

The Bakcheion consists of volunteers with members offering their services for free and out of their own pockets. As some relief, we're calling for donations to help cover member travel expenses, accommodation and performance costs; including props and materials, libations / offerings and whatever other expenses may surprise us. If donations exceed the asking amount, it will be distributed back into supporting the polytheist community.

The League Against Cruel Sports
The League Against Cruel Sports is the leading UK charity helping to prevent cruelty to animals associated with sports such as fox hunting, game bird shooting and wildlife crime. Over nine decades of campaigning, the League has developed effective ways to thwart such sports through calling form and bringing about, legislative change; educating the general public and gaining public support for the issues at hand; and causing difficulty for the people inflicting cruelty. All these actions help animals on a day-to-day basis. But there is always more to do.

They rely on public support to carry out their work, which includes campaigning to keep the Hunting Ban and preventing illegal hunting with dogs which, despite the Hunting Act, is still happening around the UK.

 

You may cast your vote here or in the comments until June 10, 2015. Thank you!

Pandora's Kharis raised $1300,- for CARE

On 25 April, and earthquake with a moment magnitude of 7.8 or 8.1Ms. Its epicenter was approximately 34 km (21 mi) east-southeast of Lamjung, Nepal. As of 30 April, it's taken the lives of over 6000 people. It was the most powerful disaster to strike Nepal since the 1934 Nepal–Bihar earthquake. Little more than two weeks after Nepal’s worst earthquake in more than 80 years, the country was traumatized by a second deadly earthquake on May 12. In order to help the survivors of this horrible tragedy, the members of Pandora's Kharis selected CARE as Mounukhion 2015 cause, and you have stepped up en mass. You have collected $1300,- to donate, and it fills us with pride to make that announcement.

According to the Government of Nepal, over 130,000 homes were destroyed and more than 85,000 partially damaged. In some villages in remote areas, over 90 percent of the houses have been destroyed or damaged. With monsoon season less than month away, it’s a race against time to get emergency shelter to people.

Over the next month, CARE plans to reach 30,000 people with emergency shelter kits that include weather-resistant tarps, rope and a toolkit that will help protect them from the rains as they begin to rebuild their homes. As people more towards recovery, CARE will provide the support to help people make changes to the way they build, so their homes are safer and more resilient when the next earthquake strikes. In some cases, CARE will provide livelihood support or cash vouchers to help accelerate their own rebuilding process. Your donation will help them reach these goals.

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community. On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity, especially with this cause where lives are at stake.

CARE Mounukhion 2015 cause

On 25 April, and earthquake with a moment magnitude of 7.8 or 8.1Ms. Its epicenter was approximately 34 km (21 mi) east-southeast of Lamjung, Nepal. As of 30 April, it's taken the lives of over 6000 people. It was the most powerful disaster to strike Nepal since the 1934 Nepal–Bihar earthquake. Some casualties have also been reported in the adjoining areas of India, China, and Bangladesh. Continued aftershocks occurred throughout Nepal, with one shock reaching a magnitude of 6.7 on 26 April. The country is at continued risk of landslides as well. In short, Nepal needs help, and the entire Pandora's Kharis community felt there was no need for a vote: our donation goes to Nepal, to help the survivors survive these terrible times and eventually rebuild. To do this, we have selected CARE as our Mounukhion 2015 cause.

CARE has worked in Nepal since 1978, with programs focused on areas including food Security, HIV/AIDS, health, education, water and sanitation, and the empowerment of women and girls. CARE's past responses to emergencies in Nepal have included response to massive landslides in Nepal’s Sindhupalchowk district in August 2014.

Their emergency response teams specialize in providing life-saving food, water, shelter and health care. CARE has more than six decades of experience helping people prepare for disasters, providing lifesaving assistance when a crisis hits, and helping communities recover after the emergency has passed. CARE, which works in 90 countries around the world, places a special focus on women, children and other vulnerable populations, who are often disproportionately affected by disasters. In 2014, our emergency response and recovery projects reached nearly four million people in 40 countries.

CARE staff are on the ground providing people with temporary shelter, food, and water purification. They plan to distribute emergency shelter and hygiene kits this week to nearly 2,500 vulnerable people impacted by the earthquake in Nepal. Distribution of 250 kits are planned Wednesday in Gorkha, a rural area near the epicenter where it’s estimated that up to 80 percent of the homes are damaged.

You can make your donations to this life-saving cause until 19 May, 2015, by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. Thank you in advance.

Update: because of the cause, the deadline has been extended for one week, to May 26, 2015.

$65,- raised for Naoto Matsumura

Members of Pandora's Kharis have come together to raise $65,- for Naoto Matsumura. He is known as the ‘guardian of Fukushima’s animals’ because of the work he does to feed the animals left behind by people in their rush to evacuate the government’s 12.5-mile exclusion zone. He is aware of the radiation he is subject to on a daily basis, but says that he “refuses to worry about it.” With our donation, Matsumura will be able to continue his good work and save many animals in need.

 

Because the donation needs to be made through bank transfer, it will take a while to transfer the funds, but you will be updated accordingly. 

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community.

On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity!

Naoto Matsumura Elaphebolion 2015 cause

It was a very close call this month, but Naoto Matsumura has won out over the other candidates as Elaphebolion 2015 cause for Pandora's Kharis. He got 40% of the votes while Feeding America got 30%, The Donkey Sanctuary 20%, and The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK) 10%.

Naoto Matsumura is the only human brave enough to live in Fukushima’s 12.5-mile exclusion zone. He is known as the ‘guardian of Fukushima’s animals’ because of the work he does to feed the animals left behind by people in their rush to evacuate the government’s exclusion zone. He is aware of the radiation he is subject to on a daily basis, but says that he “refuses to worry about it.” He does take steps, however, by only eating food imported into the zone. “They also told me that I wouldn’t get sick for 30 or 40 years. I’ll most likely be dead by then anyway, so I couldn’t care less”.

He fled at first but returned to take care of the animals that were left behind. He returned for his own animals at first, but realized that so many more needed his help, too. Matsumura discovered that thousands of cows had died locked in barns, and he also freed many animals that had been left chained up by their owners. Many of them now rely on him for food. Matsumura relies solely on donations from supporters to work with and feed the animals, and we can help him do that.

You can make your donations to this very honourable cause until 20 April, 2015, by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. Thank you in advance.

Nominees Elaphebolion 2015

The Pandora's Kharis members pitched a lot of very worthy causes this month, and I'd like to introduce them all so every member can cast an informed vote.


The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE and supports projects in 27 countries worldwide. It reaches out to those in greatest need through the provision of permanent refuge and veterinary services to alleviate their suffering. Over 50 million donkeys and mules exist in the world. Many need care and protection from a life of suffering and neglect, whilst others have a vital role to play in human survival and happiness; they are at the heart of everything they do at The Donkey Sanctuary.

Feeding America
In the United States, 1 in 6 people struggles with hunger. For 35 years now, Feeding America's mission is to feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage America in the fight to end hunger. Today, Feeding America is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization—a powerful and efficient network of 200 food banks across the country. As food insecurity rates hold steady at the highest levels ever, the Feeding America network of food banks has risen to meet the need. They feed 46.5 million people at risk of hunger, including 12 million children and seven million seniors.

The Greek Archaeological Committee (UK)
The Greek Archaeological Committee, thereafter referred to as GACUK, was founded in London in the autumn of 1986 on the 150th anniversary of the Greek Archaeological Society at Athens, with which it is associated. The founders of GACUK believe that the history and archaeology of Greece are important assets of Western culture and a better understanding of them is essential to a deeper appreciation of the shaping of the modern world. GACUK awards scholarships for post-graduate studies in British Universities to students of Hellenic ethnicity, of moderate means, who have obtained a first-class degree or equivalent in their previous studies from reputable universities.

Naoto Matsumura
The untold human suffering and property damage left in the wake of the Fukushima disaster in Japan has been well-documented, but there’s another population that suffered greatly that few have discussed – the animals left behind in the radioactive exclusion zone. One man, however, hasn’t forgotten – 55-year-old Naoto Matsumura, a former construction worker who lives in the zone to care for its four-legged survivors.

He is known as the ‘guardian of Fukushima’s animals’ because of the work he does to feed the animals left behind by people in their rush to evacuate the government’s 12.5-mile exclusion zone. He is aware of the radiation he is subject to on a daily basis, but says that he “refuses to worry about it.”

Do you have a favourite out of these five? Vote for your favourite in our poll. If you would like to donate to any of these, or have other causes to pitch for next month? Come join us as well! We will announce this month's winner on April 10, 2015.

$65,- raised for the Wounded Warrior Project

Elaion is proud to announce that Pandora's Kharis members have raised $65,- for our democratically decided upon cause the Wounded Warriors project. As always, you have all given generously, and in the spirit of the Gods!

Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound, co-incident to their military service on or after September 11, 2001 and their families.

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community.

On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity!

The 'Wounded Warrior' project Anthesterion 2015 cause

Pandora's Kharis members have selected the Wounded Warriors project as its cause for Anthesterion 2015. There were two other projects in the race, but it was not possible to donate to them directly.

Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound, co-incident to their military service on or after September 11, 2001 and their families. On that date, America watched in horror as approximately 3,000 people died including hundreds of firefighters and rescue workers. Many warriors note a sense of duty to volunteer for the military following these tragic events.

Sept. 11 also served as a stimulus for Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and New Dawn. Operation Iraqi Freedom refers to military operations in Iraq that began March 19, 2003 and officially ended August 31, 2010. Operation Enduring Freedom refers to combat operations in Afghanistan and other regions in support of the Global War on Terror. Operation New Dawn refers to the conclusion of operations in Iraq beginning September 1, 2010 and ending December 15, 2011.

With advancements in battlefield medicine and body armor, an unprecedented percentage of service members are surviving severe wounds or injuries. For every US soldier killed in World Wars I and II, there were 1.7 soldiers wounded. In Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, for every US soldier killed, seven are wounded. Combined, over 48,000 servicemen and women have been physically injured in the recent military conflicts.

In addition to the physical wounds, it is estimated as many as 400,000 service members live with the invisible wounds of war including combat-related stress, major depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Another 320,000 are believed to have experienced a traumatic brain injury while on deployment.
Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) takes a holistic approach when serving warriors and their families to nurture the mind and body, and encourage economic empowerment and engagement. Through a high-touch and interactive approach, WWP hopes to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history.

You can make your donations to this very honourable cause until 21 March, 2015, by clicking the 'donate' button to the side, or by transferring the funds directly to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com with PayPal. Thank you in advance.

$75,- raised for Meals On Wheels

Elaion is proud to announce that the Pandora's Kharis members have raised $75,- for our democratically decided upon cause the Meals On Wheels. I am once more very happy to say you have all given generously, and in the spirit of the Gods!

 

The Meals On Wheels Association of America is the oldest and largest national organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 U.S. states, as well as the U.S. Territories. All told, there are some 5,000 local Senior Nutrition Programs in the United States. These programs provide well over one million meals to seniors who need them each day. Some programs serve meals at congregate locations like senior centers, some programs deliver meals directly to the homes of seniors whose mobility is limited, and many programs provide both services.

While remarkable, the one million meals per day figure underestimates the size and shape of the Meals On Wheels network and its reach and influence in communities across America. In addition to the hundreds of thousands of seniors who receive meals, there are many thousands of professionals employed at the various local Senior Nutrition Programs across the U.S. More notable than that is the virtual army of two million volunteers who also "work" for these programs.

 

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community.

On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity!

Meals On Wheels Gamelion 2015 cause

With the overwhelming majority of votes, Meals On Wheels became Gamelion 2015 cause for Pandora's Kharis. It received 90 percent of votes and won out over Our Dancing Daughters.

The Meals On Wheels Association of America is the oldest and largest national organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 U.S. states, as well as the U.S. Territories. All told, there are some 5,000 local Senior Nutrition Programs in the United States. These programs provide well over one million meals to seniors who need them each day. Some programs serve meals at congregate locations like senior centers, some programs deliver meals directly to the homes of seniors whose mobility is limited, and many programs provide both services.

While remarkable, the one million meals per day figure underestimates the size and shape of the Meals On Wheels network and its reach and influence in communities across America. In addition to the hundreds of thousands of seniors who receive meals, there are many thousands of professionals employed at the various local Senior Nutrition Programs across the U.S. More notable than that is the virtual army of two million volunteers who also "work" for these programs.

I volunteered for Meals On Wheels for a while a few years ago, and I can tell you that the work these people do every day is amazing, and it makes a difference. If you have any money to spare--even if it's just a dollar--please consider donating. You can do so until 19 February, 2015 by using the donate button to the right or by transferring the funds to baring.the.aegis@gmail.com. Thank you in advance.

Nominees Gamelion 2015

It is our great pleasure to announce the Gamelion 2015 nominees for charity of the month. One of the following causes will receive this month's donations made by members of Pandora's Kharis. We would like to thank every community member who stood up to pitch their pick for a cause and as our numbers keep growing, we hope for even more causes to choose from next month.


Our Dancing Daughters
Our Dancing Daughters (ODD) is a youth mentorship program that guides, inspires, and transforms under-served and potentially at risk young women in Saint Paul by way of dance and life skills training delivered to them by the qualified instructors of Kamala Chaand Dance Company, Inc. and affiliated individuals and programs. This program is offered free of charge to young women who meet the guidelines outlined in the program.

Our Dancing Daughters is not a religious organization, but leader and Witch Tasha-Rose is assisted by a board made up all Pagans and Witches. Board members include LaDonna Bartol, Laurie “Remedy” Howard, Breana Larson, and Becky Munson, with Tasha-Rose as the Executive Director. Our Dancing Daughters is presently funded largely by private donors. So far they have raised $1,314 of their $10,000 goal on their GoFundMe site. Funding will pay for the scholarships of each of the young women they take on in the program. Donations  also help pay for the necessary filings for establishing us as a Federal 501c3.


Meals On Wheels
Who hasn't heard of Meals On Wheels? The Meals On Wheels Association of America is the oldest and largest national organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 U.S. states, as well as the U.S. Territories. All told, there are some 5,000 local Senior Nutrition Programs in the United States. These programs provide well over one million meals to seniors who need them each day. Some programs serve meals at congregate locations like senior centers, some programs deliver meals directly to the homes of seniors whose mobility is limited, and many programs provide both services.

While remarkable, the one million meals per day figure underestimates the size and shape of the Meals On Wheels network and its reach and influence in communities across America. In addition to the hundreds of thousands of seniors who receive meals, there are many thousands of professionals employed at the various local Senior Nutrition Programs across the U.S. More notable than that is the virtual army of two million volunteers who also "work" for these programs.


Do you have a favourite out of these two? Vote for your favourite in our poll. If you would like to donate to any of these, or have other causes to pitch for next month? Come join us as well! We will announce this month's winner on February 10, 2015.

$118,- raised for Terre des Hommes

Elaion is proud to announce that this month's Pandora's Kharis donation run has raised $118,- for our democratically decided upon cause Terre des Hommes. I am once more very happy to say you have all given generously, and in the spirit of the Gods!

 

The Terre des Hommes International Federation is a network of ten national organisations working for the rights of children and to promote equitable development without racial, religious, political, cultural or gender-based discrimination. This month we donated to their special campaign to end female slave labour in the textile industry. It costs 60 euros to send a former textile worker to school, which means two girls have just been saved.

From this moment on, the Pandora's Kharis Facebook page is open to pitches. If you do not have Facebook, feel free to pitch your cause in the comments. We will relay the message to the community. On to another month of pitching, voting, and giving. Thank you for your generosity!

Terre Des Hommes Poseideon 2015 cause

With 78% of the votes, Terre des Hommes became Poseideon 2015 cause for Pandora's Kharis! The Terre des Hommes International Federation is a network of ten national organisations working for the rights of children and to promote equitable development without racial, religious, political, cultural or gender-based discrimination. This month we will be donating to their special campaign to end female slave labour in the textile industry.

Approximately 120,000 girls and young women currently work in appalling conditions in Indian textile factories. The girls who are exposed to slave labor in factories need protection. Terre des hommes is committed to helping these girls. It costs 60 euros to send a former textile worker to school. Any donation could help change a life.

You can now donate to Pandora's Kharis at baring.the.aegis@gmail.com or by clicking the 'donate' button to the side. Please, give generously to support this wonderful cause, and thank you in advance! The deadline to donate is Wednesday 21 January, 2015.

Nominees Poseideon 2015

For Poseideon, we have two great causes to choose from, submitted by our members. They are Terre des Hommes and Save the Children.


Terre des Hommes
The Terre des Hommes International Federation is a network of ten national organisations working for the rights of children and to promote equitable development without racial, religious, political, cultural or gender-based discrimination.

Approximately 120,000 girls and young women currently work in appalling conditions in Indian textile factories. The clothes they produce ends up in our stores. Why do we still buy these goods? For many years, Terre des Hommes whas worked closely with the "Tirupur People's Forum" (TPF), a network of organizations created in 2006 in response to the serious shortcomings in the local textile industry. The TPF brings the violations and extreme abuse to the public and organizes campaigns against the exploitation of girls. TPF demands that labor laws and children's rights are respected.

The girls who are exposed to slave labor in factories need protection. Terre des hommes is committed to helping these girls. It costs 60 euros to send a former textile worker to school. Any donation could help change a life.

 
Save The Children
Save the Children invests in childhood – every day, in times of crisis and for our future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. By transforming children's lives now, we change the course of their future and ours.

Save the Children is currently on the ground providing critical help and health relief, working with health ministries in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea to help fight the Ebola outbreak. This cause builds Ebola health centers, cares for orphans, trains health workers and provides protective kits and essential medical equipment. Your generous donation could help ensure that they reach vulnerable children.

The deadline for voting is Wednesday 14 January. Donation deadline: Wednesday 21 January. Thank you in advance!