Help Japan, buy the limited edition charity buttons here: [link]

As you all know, on March 11th, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake shattered thousands of lives on Japan. As of today, the death toll has reached over 8,000 people, with up to 15,000 people missing and over half a million without homes. Furthermore, the Fukushima nuclear plant is dealing with radiation leaks that could contaminate the nearby area further and put more lives at risk.

In cooperation with Beyond Victoriana, Button Me Up will be selling special limited-edition buttons to raise money for the international aid organization Shelterbox to help provide for the devastated survivors of this mounting tragedy. Shelterbox is an international aid organization that provides aid supplies to people in the wake of disaster.

Each of these limited edition buttons costs a mere $2 each. ONE HUNDRED PERCENT of all profits made from the sale of these buttons will go toward Shelterbox. There are three different button options to choose from, each incorporating an aspect unique of Japanese culture. The moon bunny was designed by and myself, the helping hands were done by , and the steampunk sakura was done by myself for Beyond Victoriana.

In addition, we’re not just doing online sales–from now until the end of Labor Day weekend, SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2011, these limited edition buttons will be sold at various steampunk-related events and north east anime conventions. Contributions will be made directly to Shelterbox throughout the summer.

Since this will be a community effort, everyone deserves to be recognized for their contribution. When you purchase a button you have the option of including your name as part of Beyond Victoriana‘s Rising Phoenix Circle. The Rising Phoenix Circle is a spot where we can express our goodwill in thanks to the generosity of the steampunk community and spotlight these special donors. Please leave a comment or send me a note when you purchase with the name you would like to be listed under to be included in the Circle. If you do not leave a comment I will assume you wish to remain anonymous. When buying in-person, please let me know if you want to be added to the Circle.

Moreover, every donor will earn a chance to win a special prize pack, featuring autographed books, prints & more. Let me know if you wish to be included in the raffle.

Donors do NOT have to have their name displayed as part of the Rising Phoenix Circle in order to enter the giveaway. Donors do NOT have to enter the giveaway either. The Rising Phoenix Circle and additional raffle pack are gestures of goodwill to express our gratitude for buying a button toward our cause, and donors are under no obligation to participate in either. Giveaway winners will be announced after the end of the fund raising period on September 5th, 2011.

Check out our partner, Beyond Victoriana's website to learn more and get updates: [link]

In the meantime, buy a button.
Wear it with pride.
Spread the word.