Thus it pains me that on my birthday, the country of Haiti was rocked by a devestating earthquake – one that has destroyed much of Port-au-Prince, their captial. I normally try to keep my non-sports appeals to a minimum on my site, but since I have crossed paths with several Haitians throughout my life, I thought I would share a quick word here about their plight, and share resources on how you can help.

The Haitian earthquake is only hours old, but already, two of the best ways to contribute is through UNICEF, who will ensure that needed funding will reach Haitian youth, and the Pan American Development Foundation, an outreach arm of the Organization of American States.

Even if you can’t afford to give anything right now, just keep the Haitian people in your thoughts. I know I will because of the wonderful Haitians I met throughout my college career.