Dear Members, Donors and Friends,

 How could any of us imagine just days ago that wildfires here in the city of Los Angeles would destroy thousands of homes and displace tens of thousands of residents?  Sadly, this is the case.  Some of us have lost homes or know individuals who have.  The enormity of this natural catastrophe in our community requires all of us to assist in some way to repair this unforeseen loss.  So many of you have already contributed so much to our philanthropy.  However, this catastrophic emergency causes us to ask again for donations.

 We are now reaching out to all of you to assist us in providing funds to assist in the wildfire recovery.  Your participation will be in the name of the Austrian-American Council West and in honor of the long-standing friendship between the United States and Austria.

 We channel all contributions through Direct Relief International, a Santa Barbara organization, whose mission is to improve the health and lives of people affected by emergencies.  Since 2007, all of Direct Relief’s fundraising expenses have been paid by the earnings from a generous, unexpected bequest received that year and several other such legacy gifts since.  Because Direct Relief is able to cover its modest fundraising expenses in this manner, zero percent of donated funds go to the organization’s fundraising activities.  This organization ensures that 100 percent of your contribution reaches the intended target group, those who are truly in need.

 All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.  Tax ID #95-41 68 292   IRS Code §501(c)(3).  If you would like to join us in providing assistance for Los Angeles Wildfire Relief, please do so by sending your tax-deductible donation