It’s hard not to feel for the people of Haiti.

The recent earthquake has left Port au Prince devastated and resources to aid in the aftermath scarce or used up. According to The New York Times:

United States Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton told NBC’s “Today” program that 3 million people – about a third of Haiti’s population – had been affected by the quake, and that “there will be tens of thousands of casualties – we don’t have any exact numbers.”

I’ve noticed something as this disaster has unfolded – more than ever before, people are using social media to spread the word and help the relief efforts. People are posting Facebook statuses with their thoughts, prayers and personal connections. Twitter is especially abuzz about Haiti, with such trending topics as #HelpHaiti and #Haitirelief. Scores of non-profit agencies are also using Twitter to raise awareness – and money. The Red Cross and other groups are also accepting donations via text messages.

According to some accounts, a few online con artists are using the Haitian disaster as an opportunity to swindle generous people out of their money. But Twitter is facing up to that challenge as well, with people sharing links to helpful websites like Charity Navigator, which lets you analyze the efficiency and effectiveness of more than 5,400 charities. Another article making the rounds: Ten Tips to Help Haiti, Not Scammers from PCMag.com.

My point is this: social media has proven before and continues to prove itself to be more than just a frivolous time-waster – it can add real value and sense of community, especially in times of tragedy.

My thoughts and prayers are with those in Haiti.

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Technorati Tags: Haiti, Social Media