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President’s Column: Inspiring Hope the World Over
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During the two years since its inception, you have probably read at least one or more of my frequent updates on the Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund, our joint initiative to raise $3 million in three years to fight malaria and other preventable diseases in Africa and Asia and to fight disease and provide basic health care in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Nothing has inspired me more in all my years at Episcopal Relief & Development than to see the astonishing outpouring of generosity and support for the Fund from dioceses, churches and Episcopalians across the country.
We have many people to thank — far too many to list in this short column. But let me just mention an effort that has humbled and amazed me. The Diocese of Puerto Rico donated $300,000 to the Fund — the largest gift ever received from a diocese in Episcopal Relief & Development’s history. The fact that this came at a time when so many of us are struggling with the impact of the recession makes their unprecedented generosity all the more remarkable. This is also a testament to the leadership of Bishop Alvarez.
Throughout the campaign, we have seen similar efforts on a smaller yet no less impressive scale, driven by enormous grassroots energy to raise both money and public awareness about Episcopal Relief & Development’s mission.
Two-thirds of the Inspiration Fund’s budget is supporting NetsforLife®, Episcopal Relief & Development’s program partnership in sub-Saharan Africa that has already distributed one million insecticide-treated nets, protecting as many as 3 million people — especially children — from deadly malaria. The remaining third is being allocated to health-related programs in Latin America and the Caribbean, in partnership with Jubilee Ministries, focused on preventing water-borne diseases, respiratory ailments and HIV/AIDS.
Proud as I am of the progress the Fund makes possible, I am most proud of the way the friends of Episcopal Relief & Development have come together around this great cause and gained inspiration in the process. We are answering Jesus’ call to serve those who suffer, we are doing more to save the lives of millions, and we are inspiring hope in Africa and Latin America for a healthier future!
Robert W. Radtke
President
