Japan relief efforts active on campuses

Donation collections, events continuing in weeks ahead

To aid those affected by the Japan earthquake, students at the University of Colorado have organized campaigns to raise funds for relief efforts.

The 8.9 magnitude quake struck March 11, leveling homes and businesses. The quake – the biggest recorded in Japan – triggered a tsunami that devastated coastal areas. In the days that followed, the world learned that the country's Fukushima nuclear power plant had been severely damaged.

Thousands were killed and many more are still missing. Hundreds of thousands of evacuees are staying in shelters, but many must struggle to find food and a safe place to stay.

Students at the Boulder campus have formed "CU Stands With Japan" to aid with recovery efforts. Currently the campaign is focused on raising money for Red Cross relief in Japan.

Several upcoming events will help raise awareness and funds:

• April 15 – Japan Day at CU-Boulder, organized by the Japanese Student Association at Boulder. The event begins at 5 p.m. at the University Memorial Center.
• April 16 – International Festival at CU-Boulder, organized by International Fair, University Memorial Center.
• April 17 – charity concert at the College of Music; details to come.
• April 23 – Charity concert organized by the Japanese Academy of the Rockies in the Front Range Community College cafeteria. The event runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The University of Colorado Denver Office of Student Life, along with Metropolitan State College of Denver and the Community College of Denver, also are collecting Red Cross donations.

Through Thursday, March 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., students, staff and faculty volunteers will have donation buckets available in the Tivoli Commons area on the Auraria Campus. Those who donate may sign their names on cherry blossom petals which will be placed on a tree displayed in the Tivoli.