Eric, 19, USA
Basic need(s):
Education, Health, Shelter
Project:
Rescuing and relocating children orphaned by AIDS
For some, a film is simply a film. For others, it is a life altering experience. When Eric saw a documentary about the deplorable conditions in the slums of Kenya he was instantly drawn in. “600,000 people had fled their homes and 1,500 had been violently murdered. The most searing reality was that 10-year old girls were being raped and murdered.” His response was a fundraiser he called, “Just One Night,” a reference to the notion that one sole night of giving had the ability to change a child’s life forever. The concept was simple: Eric would explain the cause, ask for donations and put on a musical concert for his audience featuring his classical piano abilities as well as his friends’ various musical talents. The event raised enough money to remove two African children orphaned by AIDS from the slums and place them in a boarding school that provides meals, clothing, and of course, education. Due to its overwhelming success, partly because of Eric’s savvy in inviting the local press, there have been many events since. In just 3 years, Eric has raised over $40,000 and rescued a total of 7 children from the slums of Mukuru, Kenya. In addition to assisting children in Africa, he has also started a read-a-thon at a local elementary school as well as mentored other students who have gone on to organize their own fundraisers benefiting local children with autism, “Ride to Fly” programs for the handicapped and the Audubon Society.
