We are witnessing the very best of humankind being played out via the Internet. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world have already used the Internet to contribute to relief efforts.

This holiday season has turned unbelievably tragic for people around the world who lost loved ones in the Indian Ocean tsunamis that have killed more than 124,000 people in nine countries, including India, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

This shocking natural disaster is still unfolding, as the full reality of this human tragedy that transcends nationalities, becomes known. Beyond the lost of life is the suffering of hundreds of thousands who survived the killer waves now being faced with the devastation of their communities, lack of food and growing threat of water-borne diseases in the areas hardest hit by the floods.

The disaster has deeply affected many members of the ePhilanthropy community -- many are mourning the victims, while others are working for organizations directly involved in the relief efforts. Already tens of millions of dollars have been donated around the world, online, in support of those in need. The Internet community is not only donating online, but connecting with each other to offer support, information and outreach at this time of need.

The grief and loss are beyond comprehension, even beyond words.

The ePhilanthropy Foundation is providing information regarding safe online giving to interviewers around the world.

We ask that you also share the Tips for Online Giving and the ePhilanthropy Code of Ethics in any requests you might receive to help donors feel safe in reaching out around the world to make a difference – online.

We also ask that you share with us any stories, donation updates or other important information as this global force gathers via the Internet to help those most in need.

You can also support our efforts to share this important information with donors around the world by clicking here.