Common Ground: Learn about some of the charities "Today show" news anchor Ann Curry reports on

This follow up by Celeste McCauley appeared in Guideposts online newsletter.

In her cover story An Act of Faith, "Today" show news anchor and Dateline NBC anchor Ann Curry talks about reporting from some of the world's most dangerous places to shed light on injustice and give voice to the voiceless.

"Journalism is about changing the world, isn't it?" she said. "It's about giving people the truth so that they can change the world. The world is evolving, I believe, into a more compassionate place."

Ann exuded a calmness that contrasted with the stories she was telling about the injustices she witnessed in Sudan, Congo and Serbia. Yet despite the troubles in the world, she remains hopeful.

"My travels have convinced me that no human being is really foreign to another. We have so much in common. The truth is, we are surrounded by our sisters and brothers, mothers and fathers, each life precious. It is time for us to stand up against the suffering caused by genocide, war and ignorance. If we care enough about our human family, we can change the future."
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A postscript to Guideposts’ story: Twenty-four hours after they finalized the piece with Ann, Haiti was hit by a devastating earthquake. The very next day Ann was reporting live from Haiti—again on her quest to help others through her reporting. Again putting her beliefs into action—just like she talks about in their story.

Check out Ann's suggestions for ways to help the people she reports on.  "If you can't give money, donate your time and volunteer," she says.

International Rescue Committee  
Provides relief, respect and renewal to refugees and victims of armed conflict around the world.

Save the Children  
Creates lasting change for children in need in the United States and around the world.

Mercy Corps  
Turns crisis into opportunity for families in some of the world's toughest places.

Doctors Without Borders  
Medical humanitarian organization assisting people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe.

Ann writes on her Twitter page that "journalism is an act of faith in the future." Follow her posts at www.twitter.com/anncurry.