Live 8 has come and gone, as have so many fundraising (right, I mean awareness) attempts in the past. But has it made a difference? In the case of Live 8, no fundraising attempts were being made, it was simply to raise awareness. I have mixed feeling on that idea. Awareness is of course very important, but why not raise some money while you are at it? Even if tickets were $5 each that money could have gone a long way in Africa.

This idea personally upsets me as I am a Fundraising Volunteer with a group working in Africa called KEEG www.keeg.kabissa.org which is working in the fight to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in adolescent communities. I have learned from this experience that it is very hard to raise money for developing countries so when you have the chance, why not grab it?

North American corporations for the most part are simply not interested in financially backing fundraising projects outside of Canada and the United States. The overwhelming response I have received from these companies is that they are contributing to North American causes (more specifically either to Canada or US) and will not be contributing outside of those countries. I am not talking about one or two companies here, I am talking about close to 100 that I have contacted and have given me the same response.

So who will help if not the big corporations who have the funds to do so? I know there are quite a few individuals who want to help, but do not know what they can do. Any little difference helps, and I feel that as the fortunate Canadians we are-living in such conditions that (most of us) do not have to worry about whether or not we will eat tonight, or if our medical community has enough medicine for us-we have a duty to help. There are so many things that can be done, just be creative and get in touch with somebody who can properly direct your funds. There are so many great, fun ways to fundraise. Just be sure to check all the documents carefully and be sure that you are actually giving money to a non-profit organization.

Do not get me wrong, I am very aware that we have problems of our own in Canada and North America as a whole, but we have many more means to solve them. As well, we are not suffering the kind of epic health struggles as those in Africa are. The percentage of people who are suffering from HIV/AIDS is phenomenal and has to be turned around before we lose such a huge chunk of the worlds population. This is a problem that involves us all. I realize that this may seem that I am going beyond my call and duty as a Toronto Blogger, but I think this is an important subject to speak about in Toronto.

If you are ready to make a difference start now. Try the United Nations Volunteer listings, or email keegcanada@hotmail.com to get involved.