After the Haiti earthquakes, people around the nation rallied behind a unified cause. The goal to raise enough funds for medical and relief efforts continues—one cell phone at a time.

Have you ever had a moment of realization where suddenly it hits you: “I’m living in the future!” This moment happened to me after I watched an episode of the Colbert Report where he had US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, on to discuss what viewers can do to help. Her answer— text ‘Haiti’ to 90999 to donate $10 to the American Red Cross. I found myself reaching for my cell phone thinking (a) I can afford $10 (b) this donation process seems relatively quick and painless and (c) I’m doing my part to help.

Thought (d) only occurred to me after I had received my confirmation text back a few seconds later.

(d) THIS IS BRILLIANT!