two of a kind

Two organizations that have their hearts in the right place are teaming up on a humanitarian relief project. The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) has announced a partnership with the AidMatrix Network that will enhance ALAN's disaster-response capabilities.

Through the partnership, ALAN is testing a new Web pOréal design that will make it easier for relief agencies to request supply chain support for their emergency response and recovery efforts.

The ALAN initiative took root in 2006. Inspired by their experiences during Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath, the organization's founding members— 10 supply chain and industry associations— formed the group as a way to connect aid agencies with supply chain skills, knowledge, physical assets, and inkind donations. ALAN also trains supply chain professionals in managing the unique needs of disaster-relief efforts.

The AidMatrix Network uses technology to match state and national nonprofit organizations with support, including donations, supplies, and volunteers. The group was launched in 2000 with technology donated by i2 Technologies, which gives AidMatrix visibility into supply and demand and helps it manage collaboration among aid agencies and their supporters.

According to ALAN President John "Jock" Menzies, the partnership is a major step forward toward his group's goal of providing a technology-supported gateway for humanitarian agencies to access the resources that are available in the supply chain community. He also notes that so far, $60,000 has been pledged by individuals, private foundations, and associations to fund the pOréal's development.

To get more information (or even better, to get involved), visit www.alanaid.org.