The CIDI became interested in the 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' program because it was unlike any other initiative undertaken by school children for humanitarian assistance in the past. The Center's Director, Suzanne H. Brooks had only heard the last few minutes of the 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' segment on the January 30, 2002 ABC network's "20/20 Downtown." In describing what piqued her interest, "When I heard that the American students at this school had actually raised the money to pay for the construction of a school and medical clinic in Afghanistan, I could hardly believe it!" This particular group of children has been extraordinary in their approach to providing assistance." Since the banking and a postal systems have been virtually non-existent in Afghanistan for many years, program funds collected by the children are channeled through the its non-profit fund to an office in Pakistan, where it is distributed and managed by Afghan school administrators. "The students researched, planned, organized and undertook some innovative fundraising activities to reach their goal," Ms. Brooks said. She added that "Clearly this program has been a success—and these children will serve as outstanding examples for other children across the United States who want to help Afghan children."

Ms. Brooks explained that "For nearly 15 years I have been answering inquiries from schools around the country regarding how they can best be involved in responding to international emergencies. There have been canned food drives, used clothing or toy collections and other activities, which, while they are well-intended, are often very problematic for the relief agencies in terms of transportation, warehousing and distribution—and inappropriate or potentially harmful for disaster victims in terms of their cultural, religious and dietary needs."

The Director of the 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' program, Khris Nedam, is a teacher at Amerman Elementary School in Northville, Michigan, which initiated the program. In the early 1990's, Ms. Nedam lived and taught school in Afghanistan. Her insight into Afghan customs, culture and many other aspects of life in Afghanistan has brought valuable insight to the program. When asked why her program focused on fundraising, instead of the usual practice of material collections, her answer reflects a deep understanding of how humanitarian assistance really works. "First, we try to buy as many materials as possible locally in Afghanistan to help their economy. Also, the American dollar goes much further in Afghanistan or Pakistan than here, therefore we can purchase more and avoid shipping costs. We also want this to be a project that helps our Afghan partners as much as possible and trust they know better than we what is appropriate and good."

One of the greatest concerns expressed by potential donors who contact the Center is that individuals and groups have historically wanted to do something tangible -- more than giving money. The 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' program addresses the desire for real contact and ensures that what the children in the United States do, truly reaches the Afghan children. Ms. Nedam explains, "It helps that we have very consistent communications—even during difficult times, and a real sense of partnership. We have taken pictures and video tapes during the entire project. The American students have been moved to tears more than once during video exchanges."

The Center hopes that other schools around the country will consider joining and supporting the 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' program or similar programs of responsible relief agencies operating in Afghanistan, instead of making material collections of supplies. Cash donations can help to offset the $3,000 per month costs of maintaining the school and the salaries of the teachers. To date eight other schools around the country have joined the program and contribute to its success.

For additional information about joining the 'Kids 4 Afghan Kids' program, please visit their web site at www.kids4afghankids.com.