Greetings Everyone,
When President John F. Kennedy gave his inaugural address as the 35th President of the United States January 20, 1961, it inspired children and adults to see the importance of civic action and public service. Who remembers his historic words, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country”? He challenged every American to contribute in some way to the public good.
This week I am moved to share JFK’s famous words as we are watching the people of Ukraine suffer under the attacks the Russian army from the north. We pray for their survival in this horrible war. We begin to ask ourselves what can we do? When asking this of our co-workers, ideas were shared by Erin Wheatcraft and Laurie Macielinski as well as clients who have sons working in Ukraine and Poland helping the refugees.
The JFK quote we remember was followed by addressing the new President’s international audience: “My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.”
The speech was given during the Cold War (March 12, 1947 – December 26, 1991, 44 years, and 9 months) ending with the dissolution of the Soviet Union. There was no large-scale fighting but the two superpowers, the U.S. and the Soviet Union supported major regional proxy wars. If you study history, you can understand why the Ukraine is so important to President Putin who wants to regain the power and prestige of the former Soviet Union.
There are no words to describe the tragedies that people are suffering in Ukraine. I was moved to find a way to support the refugee effort. Jack and Martine Meland shared their sons Marc and Eric’s work they are doing in Ukraine and in Poland aiding refugees.
They offered this when I asked how we could help:
Contribute to the Josiah Venture Ukraine Crisis Fund. Currently funds are being used to bus humanitarian supplies into Ukraine, then return to Poland with 50+ refugees per trip. At this point they only have one bus in operation and wishing they could have as many as 50, the need is so great. Click here make a donation to Josiah Venture Ukraine Crisis Fund.
A local 15 year old is collecting coats to ship to refugees in Ukraine. Our office is pitching in with donations. Coats, sweatshirts, fleece, light jackets can be dropped off at our office through March 20th if you would like to participate.
Here are some other agencies making great progress
in helping refugees fleeing Ukraine:
United Help Ukraine
Razom for Ukraine
Revived Soldiers Ukraine
Medical Teams International
World Central Kitchen
Save the Children Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund
Thank you - Дякую
Please share your stories with us too. I believe that we can all take a lesson from President John F. Kennedy and ask ourselves what can we do for others?
Sincerely,
Judith McGee, L.H.D., CFP®, ChFC®
Executive Vice President and Senior Lead Advisor
The economic impact of the Eastern European conflict will continue to be felt here and globally. Not only are traders paying close attention to the economic outlook resulting from the war, but they must also keep an eye on the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, particularly in light of the latest developments in Ukraine.
Source: Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc.
Markets & Office Closures
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