Sounding Off:

The recent earthquake in Haiti and its aftermath have captured the country’s attention and mine, too, because of my personal involvement some years ago doing missionary work through my church in that island nation.

For several years, I attended a congregation that supported an orphanage, school and other mission work in and around Cap Haitien.

I was a member of mission teams to this area on three occasions, and formed friendships with many Haitians and a better understanding of the country.

Sadly, Haiti rises to the level of consciousness for most Americans only when the news involves some natural or political disaster. Heaven knows there have been plenty of both over that troubled nation’s 200-year history.

The pictures of overwhelming need and crisis seen during the past days serve to emphasize the profound problems faced by most Haitians. This is a country unable to provide its citizens with the most basic services, such as sanitation, clean drinking water, and security, so the logistical challenges posed by such a devastating quake are insurmountable without help from other countries.

And help has arrived, much of it from the United States. Within hours of the quake, American rescue teams, emergency service workers, and scores of others were mobilized to help.

This past week has seen substantial assistance from private organizations, such as Samaritan’s Purse, as well as millions of dollars in aid and supplies authorized by President Obama.

Once again, the American public and private sectors have joined to provide assistance and comfort to a land most Americans will never see.

Altruism, on a national scale, is such an enduring characteristic of America that it almost goes unnoticed. It is embraced by citizens holding vastly different political opinions. It unites us regardless of race, gender or cultural background.

Americans give more to charity than any other nation and, in time of need, this money and assistance freely flows. It is such a part of our national identity that the expectation of aid is unquestioned.

I believe the value of charity is rooted in the sense of community fostered by the first colonial settlers. Many were looking to create the “City on a Hill” that would shine as an example of the Christian ethic. While their vision was not fully realized, their commitment to charity lives on.

God Bless America! It may not be a new sentiment, but it is one I embrace. And, given America’s generosity, it’s a prayer the rest of the world should repeat.

TODD PERKINS is the interim head of Mariners Christian School in Costa Mesa.