The RBHS UNICEF chapter started their month-long fundraiser from Nov. 18 to Dec. 15. The club is trying to raise money for the international organization, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), an United Nations program that provides humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries.
“UNICEF is a really great organization that does a lot to support children all over the world and donations [students make] will obviously support that,” club vice president and junior Valerie Besser said. “The money UNICEF raises goes directly to providing medical supplies for children in areas that don’t have very good access to that kind of thing, as well as support to make sure they’re getting the nutrition and water that’s so vital for them to have at that age.”
The event is meant to specifically benefit several of the programs UNICEF supports, such as Syrian refugees and clean water initiatives.
“The fundraiser is running now to Dec. 15. It is to raise money to donate to UNICEF to help things such as refugees and ensure children in Africa get clean water,” club president and senior Hannah Potter said. “We are placing mason jars in teachers rooms and whichever teacher raises the most, we will reward them and their class.”
Students can also support UNICEF and the programs it runs by attending the UNICEF club meetings. Club member junior Sarah Emerson the meeting dates are flexible and are planned around all members’ availability.
“If people want to get involved but cannot pay, they can join UNICEF and come to meetings,” Emerson said. “This would allow them to participate in the fundraiser setting up and spreading the message to others. I would highly recommend getting involved if you can.”
The fundraiser is meant to do more than just raise money. Potter thinks it should serve as a reminder to RBHS students about how privileged the are as Americans.
“Kids participating will get a larger global look and perspective. Their money goes to good things around the world and it really makes people realize how great we have it in America and how much we can do to help,” Potter said. “These people [UNICEF supports] will be impacted by receiving many of the bare necessities we take for granted.”