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This video highlights our methods and systems inside GAZA. This is what makes @globalempowermentmissionmena and our partners @hcicanada different. #FKlogistics
GEM is fundamentally disrupting the disaster relief sector by rethinking how aid is delivered. While many large organizations remain tied to legacy models with heavy overhead, GEM has pioneered a lean and efficient approach that maximizes every donor dollar for impact.
Our strategy rests on three pillars: smart partnerships, lean teams, and unmatched dollar-to-impact efficiency.
Through strategic alliances with logistics companies, private sector partners, and local governments, GEM moves aid faster and at lower cost. We leverage existing infrastructure instead of recreating it, allowing us to deliver food, water, and supplies directly into the hands of vetted recipients immediately.
Our team model is also different. Instead of thousands of staff members bogged down in bureaucracy, GEM operates with small, agile, and highly skilled teams. This enables us to act immediately, pivot quickly, and stay transparent in every operation.
But our disruption doesn’t end with emergency aid. GEM also drives powerful rebuilding programs—from repairing homes and schools to providing transitional housing and restoring community infrastructure. Just as in the relief phase, we apply the same lean systems, ensuring that donor dollars directly translate into rebuilt lives and stronger communities.
Finally, GEM’s dollar-to-impact ratio speaks for itself. For every dollar entrusted to us, an outsized portion is translated directly into tangible results: more meals delivered, more families housed, more homes rebuilt, and more communities standing stronger than before.
As disasters and conflicts increase worldwide, the pool of donor funding cannot grow endlessly. The future of humanitarian response depends on organizations proving they can do more with less. GEM is showing that innovation, ethics, and smart systems can reshape what’s possible—setting a new global standard for both relief and long-term recovery. @globalempowermentmission @globalempowermentmissionua @globalempowermentmissionmena @globalempowermentmissionhawaii @globalempowermentmissioneur @globalempowermentmissionasia #bstrong
Images from our @globalempowermentmissionmena teams in Pakistan. 0ver 300 people already confirmed dead in the mountainous Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Teams will be supporting families in this area this week. #pakistanfloods2025 #KhyberPakhtunkhwa #monsoon
At GEM, we have always been committed to operating methodically, ethically, and with a singular focus: bringing hope and dignity to people in their greatest time of need.
Through our smart partnerships with @hcicanada and FK Logistics, we are able to deliver aid in ways that are safe, effective, and deeply impactful. Below are some highlights that set our operations apart:
Key Differentiators
• Fully Authorized: Registered with both Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora and the Palestinian Authority, giving GEM broad and ongoing approval to deliver aid directly into Gaza.
• Proven Track Record: In two years of operations in Gaza, only three trucks have ever been looted—an exceptionally low figure in such a volatile environment.
• Direct-to-Family Distribution: Unlike many organizations that require recipients to travel through dangerous zones to reach aid points, GEM delivers directly to vetted families within their camps.
• Nutritional Aid: Each family receives a 23 kg pre-packed box containing 76 nutritious meals, ensuring consistent and reliable food security.
• Safe Water Access: GEM purchases desalinated water inside Gaza, conducts independent testing to ensure safety, and then brings clean water directly by truck to families in need.
For security reasons, we cannot announce distribution locations in advance. Please know, however, that GEM continues to do everything possible to protect vulnerable communities and to deliver aid where we can and where it is needed most.
@globalempowermentmission @globalempowermentmissionmena @hcicanada
The Power of Renewal
From the ashes of loss, a new chapter is being written in Lahaina. Yesterday, we stood with the community at the historic Jodo Mission — a sacred place that has been a cornerstone of Maui’s spiritual and cultural life for over a century. In the face of hardship, their unity and resilience shine brighter than ever.
Our GEM Hawaii-Pacific branch was humbled to play even a small role in this renewal. In partnership with @lahainajodomission , @edfreedman, @stableroadfoundation, @mauigarrett, @mauibrewingco, and @treecoverylahaina, we helped build two new homes for the family of Gensho Hara the visionary who first brought Buddhism to Maui.
The Jodo Mission is more than a landmark — it is a living testament to faith, heritage, and community. We invite you to watch the video clips, where you’ll hear powerful stories about its sacred history and enduring role in Lahaina’s spirit of hope. #lahaina #maui #renewal #buddhism @globalempowermentmission @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
Maui Wildfires – Two-Year Impact & Recap
Today marks two years since the devastating wildfires that swept through Maui. This event was one of deadliest wildfires in U.S. history in over a century.
Fueled by extreme drought, dry vegetation, and powerful winds intensified by Hurricane Dora, the fires tore through historic Lahaina, leaving behind unprecedented destruction.
• 102 lives were lost in Lahaina, many perishing from flames, smoke inhalation, or drowning while trying to escape.
• Over 2,200 structures were destroyed, with estimated damages exceeding $5.5 billion, making it one of the most destructive wildfires in global history.
This milestone serves as both a moment of remembrance and a reflection on how far we’ve come in rebuilding lives, homes, and hope.
Through our Smart Partnership model, here’s some highlights on what we’ve been able to accomplish in the last 2 years. While most organizations came and went, GEM remained, forming an immediate local Hawaii-Pacific branch, employing locals, creating jobs and hope.
Thank you to our impact partners @bethennyfrankel , @handlerrich , @jefferies , @stableroadfoundation , David and Nicole Tepper Foundation, @pbunitedway @st_vincent_de_paul_charity @edfreedman, @marcbell, @airbnb @mauigarrett @mauibrewingco, @sailtrilogy, @treecoverylahaina @countyofmaui and the @govhawaii Department of Human Services.
Our commitment in Maui will continue for years to come. Our branch is here to stay, not only serving Maui but any potential other disasters in the Hawaii-Pacific rim. To learn more and how you can help, please visit link in bio above, or: https://www.globalempowermentmission.org/mission/maui-wildfires/ #mauifires #maui #hawaii #bstrong
Event Post 2 of 2: This past weekend, GEM Executive Board Members India Hicks and Nina Lesavoy hosted the 3rd Annual Hamptons Summer Celebration, honoring the impactful work of Global Empowerment Mission. Set against the stunning backdrop of Nina Lesavoy’s home in Sag Harbor, guests gathered for an unforgettable evening of sunset cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and live music by reggae icon Winston Irie & the Selective Security Band.
As the program began, India Hicks took the stage to reflect on her recent frontline mission to Ukraine with her two sons, Amory and Conrad, where they personally delivered aid to families in crisis. She then raised a heartfelt toast to GEM Founder and President Michael Capponi, applauding his unwavering leadership and dedication. Michael followed with powerful remarks detailing GEM’s mission and global impact-reaching 71 countries to date.
The evening culminated in an exciting paddle raise led by renowned auctioneer Letitia Frye, generating more than $150,000+ in support-an amount that continues to grow thanks to the generosity of attendees.
Adding to the momentum, @twpclothing donated 15% of total sales from their Southampton and Sag Harbor boutiques on event weekend, and in a remarkable show of support, pledged to match the funds raised, effectively doubling their contribution to GEM’s lifesaving work. Thank u Andrew
Notables in Attendance: India Hicks, Nina Lesavoy, Andrew Rosen & Jenny Dyer, Alison Bruhn, Candace Bushnell, Bruce Weber, Nan Bush, Nicole Miller, Fern Mallis, Alina Kurska, Isaac Boots, Pippa Cohen, Carl Bernstein, Katie Cassidy, Stephen Huszar, Countess Luann, Luisa Beccaria Bonaccorsi, Ron and Marta Bloom, Michael Clinton, Scott Woodward, Reed Boren.
Very Special Thank you to @davidflintwood for donating a fabulous Rum bar featuring @idleassembly @idlespirits, and to @fieldbar.co
@michaelcapponi @indiahicksstyle @nlesavoy_ @bruceweber @katiecassidy @stephenhuszar @carlbernstein @nicolemillerlife @candacebushnell @fernmallis @macglobetrotter @3_felix
@wesley_thecreator @dominofw007@amoryflintwood @conradflintwood @alina.kurs_@martabloom @ron_bloom @scottwoodward @majelheart @kariannefields @jakeharris2
Event Post 1 of 2: This past weekend, GEM Executive Board Members India Hicks and Nina Lesavoy hosted the 3rd Annual Hamptons Summer Celebration, honoring the impactful work of Global Empowerment Mission. Set against the stunning backdrop of Nina Lesavoy’s home in Sag Harbor, guests gathered for an unforgettable evening of sunset cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and live music by reggae icon Winston Irie & the Selective Security Band.
As the program began, India Hicks took the stage to reflect on her recent frontline mission to Ukraine with her two sons, Amory and Conrad, where they personally delivered aid to families in crisis. She then raised a heartfelt toast to GEM Founder and President Michael Capponi, applauding his unwavering leadership and dedication. Michael followed with powerful remarks detailing GEM’s mission and global impact—reaching 71 countries to date.
The evening culminated in an exciting paddle raise led by renowned auctioneer Letitia Frye, generating more than $150,000+ in support—an amount that continues to grow thanks to the generosity of attendees.
Adding to the momentum, @twpclothing donated 15% of total sales from their Southampton and Sag Harbor boutiques on event weekend, and in a remarkable show of support, pledged to match the funds raised, effectively doubling their contribution to GEM’s lifesaving work. Thank u Andrew
Notables in Attendance: India Hicks, Nina Lesavoy, Andrew Rosen & Jenny Dyer, Alison Bruhn, Candace Bushnell, Bruce Weber, Nan Bush, Nicole Miller, Fern Mallis, Alina Kurska, Isaac Boots, Pippa Cohen, Carl Bernstein, Katie Cassidy, Stephen Huszar, Countess Luann, Luisa Beccaria Bonaccorsi, Ron and Marta Bloom, Michael Clinton, Scott Woodward, and more.
Very Special Thank you to @davidflintwood for donating a fabulous Rum bar featuring @idleassembly @idlespirits, and to @fieldbar.co
@michaelcapponi @indiahicksstyle @nlesavoy_ @bruceweber @katiecassidy @stephenhuszar @carlbernstein @nicolemillerlife @candacebushnell @fernmallis @macglobetrotter @3__felix @wesley_thecreator @dominofw007 @amoryflintwood @conradflintwood @alina.kurs_ @martabloom @ron_bloom @scottwoodward @majelheart @kariannefields @jakeharris2
TEAM MEMBER HIGHLIGHT SERIES….We first met Ayça when she volunteered for GEM during the immediate aftermath of the February 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. From that moment on, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication — pouring her heart and soul into every mission led by @globalempowermentmissionmena across the Middle East.
Ayça has operated in some of the region’s most challenging environments, and her leadership has been instrumental in navigating complex humanitarian crises. Today, she proudly serves as the Executive Director of GEM’s officially registered branch in Türkiye.
Under her guidance, the GEM Türkiye team stands ready to respond at a moment’s notice to disasters and conflicts throughout the region — always with professionalism, compassion, and speed. This week, Ayça and her local team are in Pakistan supporting flood victims from the latest catastrophic floods.
IMPORTANT UPDATE ON GAZA
Today, the Government of Israel has officially authorized GEM to resume our humanitarian operations inside Gaza.
GEM is one of only a handful of international organizations officially registered with both the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority — a critical distinction that enables us to deliver aid effectively and with transparency.
Over the past 1.5 years, our team has maintained one of the most secure and efficient delivery systems in the region, with only two trucks ever compromised. This is a testament to our disciplined logistics and unwavering focus on one goal: alleviating human suffering by delivering life-saving aid directly into the hands of civilians.
Thanks to our dedicated partners — @hcicanada and FK Logistics — we are now mobilizing the delivery of over 10 million packaged meals in humane kits, each weighing approximately 23 kg. These kits are designed to meet the immediate nutritional needs of families in crisis.
In addition to shelf-stable meals, our @globalempowermentmissionmena branch is also distributing fresh produce kits, locally sourced vegetables, and tested, purified water — a vital resource in a region where over 90% of the water supply is currently contaminated.
We remain fully committed to the people of Gaza and to providing them with the dignity of direct, safe, and essential aid. We also again pray for the release of hostages and a positive and safe way forward for all people. #dignity #humanity #sustenance #water #foodsecurities
This week, we were out in eastern Ukraine, overseeing our GEM HGBF food kit distributions. We were in Izium (formerly occupied and now deoccupied) and the Malodanylivka community within the Kharkiv region. We also had the opportunity to visit local Ukrainian farmers and personally witness the new vegetable harvest grown from seeds previously distributed by our team.
In response to growing needs and the increasing number of internally displaced persons across multiple regions, GEM HGBF has expanded its food security program by 38%, effective this month. As of today, our programs in Ukraine, ranging from food security to water and shelter are providing critical support to over 800,000 people every month on a steady and dependable basis.
We are proud to stand alongside these resilient communities, where our support remains both vital and deeply needed. Despite the constant threat of shelling, these individuals continue to live, work, farm, and grow their crops with extraordinary determination—showcasing the strength of the human spirit in even the harshest conditions.
GEM is incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation who makes all our work in #Ukraine possible.
Yesterday, our GEM USA West team, together with our incredible partners, made history.
We launched a new chapter in disaster recovery with one of our signature Recovery Pop-Ups, this time introducing a groundbreaking addition: “Hire a Survivor.”
For the first time ever, a job fair was held specifically for families impacted by a disaster. In addition to accessing vital long-term recovery resources, survivors were given something even more powerful, the chance to secure meaningful employment that could change their lives.
This is what true empowerment looks like.
Thousands of opportunities were offered, with over 500 jobs pledged, many providing prevailing wages, high-profile roles, and skilled positions in the trades and construction industries. Recruitment efforts were further strengthened through the support of the LAPD, LA County Sheriff’s Department, and Pasadena agencies.
This event wasn’t just a job fair, it was a life-changing moment for hundreds of survivors and a major milestone in the evolution of disaster recovery. To learn more about these programs, please visit the link in our bio section.
#GEMUSAWest #HireASurvivor #DisasterRecovery #JobFair #FireSurvivors #Empowerment #LongTermRecovery #gemmissions
Our main objectives are to deliver the most amount of aid, to the most amount of people in need, in the shortest amount of time and with the least amount of costs to our donors. This also applies to our rebuilding efforts.
Make checks payable and send them to:
Global Empowerment Mission
1850 NW 84TH AVE, SUITE 100 DORAL FL 33126
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Today, GEM has one of the highest dollar vs impact ratios in the non-profit sector, and is committed to disrupting disaster relief with a complete 180-degree response. We solve complex problems efficiently with innovative solutions, through smart partnerships, globally.
