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Tzu Chi Named NVOAD

Member of the Year

Tzu Chi Foundation | Photos: Norman Yang

n May 14, 2013, Buddhist Tzu Chi On May 14, the award
Foundation was named “Member of ceremony was held during
Othe Year” at the 21st Annual National the NVOAD Conference in Portland, Oregon. As
Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster the emcee announced Tzu Chi as the recipient
(NVOAD) Conference in Portland, Oregon. of the award, a photograph of Master Cheng
Tzu Chi volunteers were recognized “for their Yen was shown on the screen, followed by
unfailing devotion to [the] principles of charity, pictures showing ten thousand people
compassion, and service.” participating in the Buddha Bathing Ceremony
at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei and
NVOAD is a national network of the heartwarming scene of Tzu Chi volunteers
organizations that provide disaster relief in serving hot meals after Hurricane Sandy. These
the United States. Its more than one hundred images moved the 450-plus disaster relief
member organizations represent the best of organization representatives in attendance,
American volunteer organizations. Tzu Chi, who then showed their support and admiration
which officially became a member in October for Tzu Chi.
2006, is the only Buddhist organization in the
network. NVOAD plays an important role in
connecting the federal government, nonprofit
The Member of the Year Award is given to agencies, religious organizations, companies,
one organization each year. In 2013, Tzu Chi was and academia, and has a significant impact
nominated by Federal Emergency Management on establishing and promoting education
Agency (FEMA). In the nomination, FEMA for disaster response planning. In accepting
pointed out that in their disaster relief efforts the award on behalf of all Tzu Chi volunteers,
in 2012, Tzu Chi inspired a culture of gratitude, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Executive Vice
respect, and love in both relief efforts and President Debra Boudreaux thanked Dharma
good deeds. Tzu Chi volunteers also promoted Master Cheng Yen for her guidance and the
environmental protection to disaster survivors other member organizations of NVOAD for
as a way to care for Earth and their own providing “the opportunity for us to learn.”.
communities.

3 8 Tzu CHi uSA FALL 2013