An international education initiative to bridge the unmet needs of frontline service programs to untapped resources of professional time, talents, manpower, inkind and financial donations in communities across the globe.

This information resource was developed and is maintained by Stephen M. Apatow, Director of Research and Development, Humanitarian University Consortium Graduate Studies Center for Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Law.  Questions or suggestions regarding the Global Community Needs Database can be sent to: admin@humanitarian.net.

Utilizing a strategic plan similar to the one used during contingency planning for the Year 2000 conversion, Humanitarian Resource Institute's vision for a Global Community Needs Database encompasses (1) infrastructure analysis in each country, (2) assessment of NGO's and relief organizational capacity to address the size and scope of humanitarian needs, (3) the provision of data to enhance the strategic planning, project development and allocation of financial and inkind donations.

In The Spotlight:

• Grassroots Programs Key to Both U.S. and International Humanitarian Initiatives: As Swaziland, hit by three consecutive years of food shortages, has emerged as something of a model for grassroots participation in tackling emergencies, in the United States, a crippling budget crisis on the state/municipal level is requiring systemic changes, focusing attention once again to the challenge of bridging "unmet needs to untapped resources."
• International Interfaith Peace Declaration The recent deterioration of peace negotiations, escalation of violence in the Middle East and challenges associated with the global war against terrorism has inspired the construction of an International Interfaith Peace Declaration, drafted by Stephen M. Apatow, President and Founder of Humanitarian Resource Institute.
• Humanitarian Resource Institute Opens Biodefense Reference Library  A collaborative initiative of international medical, veterinary and scientific experts to share information and enhance academic discussion of issues associated with preparedness,  response, mitigation and policy, 3 October 2001.
• Humanitarian Resource Institute Expands Online Legal Resource Center Access academic publications, treaties, conventions and materials associated with study of international law. Includes information on the Dialogue on Freedom: American Bar Association Initiative

Resources:

• United Nations System of Organizations  Alphabetic Index of Websites of the United Nations System of Organizations 
• InterAction:  The American Council for Voluntary International Action - A coalition of 165 nonprofit organizations working worldwide.
• Volunteers In Technical Assistance: The Model for Effective Private Sector Donation for International Disaster Assistance. 
• United Nations Development Program: Advice, Advocacy, and Resources for Empowering the Poor

For the latest International updates by country visit:

• ReliefWeb
• U.S Agency for International Development
• AlertNet: Country Profiles