Red Cross Youth

Last week the Measles Initiative hosted its annual Partner for Measles Advocacy Meeting in Washington DC. The event, which took place on 23-24 September, brought together all five founding partners of the Measles Initiative – the American Red Cross, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the United Nations Foundation. In addition, technical advisors from the field, the IFRC, National Red Cross Societies, chapters, financial partners and academic institutions were present. The meeting covered accomplishments from the past year, updates on activities and discussed ways to move forward, in particular with the funding challenges facing the Measles Initiative for 2009.

The meeting included a presentation on domestic outreach which highlighted the great work done by chapters and Red Cross youth across the United States! Several examples of successful youth outreach efforts were mentioned, including the Band Together CD produced by NYC member Mat Morgan and the Comebat for Measles tri-state softball tournament organized by (former) University of South Carolina RC Club President, Angela Bingham. The presentation gave the Measles Initiative partners an opportunity to hear about the dedication of RC youth to their cause. Conference participants also learned about the Measles Initiative Youth Champion network and their upcoming activities for the 2008 / 2009 school year.

In addition, two chapters were recognized for their outstanding work this year. Kathy Lass of the St. Louis Area chapter and Cleo Hendrickson of the ARC of New Jersey Coast accepted gifts of recognition for their support in raising funds and awareness for the Measles Initiative.

To find out how you can get involved in Measles Initiative outreach, please contact [email protected].

Jill Grospierre, Partnership Outreach Coordinator

Filed under: Fundraiser, International, National Headquarters Tagged: | Africa, fundraising, India, Measles, Pakistan