With the devastating effects of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on March 11 still unfolding, Hyphen asks that you please consider contributing to the relief efforts that have mobilized in response to this natural disaster. Below we have included just a few of the many organizations currently accepting donations, but also recommend staying informed if you are unsure of which relief fund you want to support. You can visit the Better Business Bureau's site on charitable organizations for more information.

Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC)

Doctors Without Borders

International Medical Corps

GlobalGiving

Peace Boat

Tides Relief & Reconstruction Fund

[Full Disclosure: Our development director Irene Kao is employed by the Tides Foundation]

For those concerned with the whereabouts of friends and family in Japan, Google has set up a multilingual Person Finder site.

And in light of anti-Japanese sentiment that has surfaced in the wake of this disaster, we ask that communities stand together in support for the survivors and victims regardless of racial or national ties.

If you have any tips on how to get involved or to stay abreast of news updates in Japan, please add them to our comments section.