Fight HIV/AIDS this Christmas as an American consumer

Dear all,

I have returned from a week of touring a comprehensive HIV/AIDS program in the rural state of Karnataka, in southern India, run by an NGO called the Swami Vivekanda Youth Movement (SVYM). I am travelling for two more weeks, and will detail to you my experiences, especially about SVYM, when I return. But first I have a request.

While at SVYM I viewed drugs called antiretrovirals (ARVs) being administered to hundreds of HIV/AIDS patients. I also viewed an innovative training program for health professionals specifically on HIV/AIDS. Both of these programs are funded by the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria - the three top infectious disease killers in the world. The Global Fund was started in 2002 by the United Nations Secretary, world leaders, and activists to provide funding for effective and innovative programs in the poorest parts of the world. Only the best programs, peer-reviewed by expert panels, receive funding.

An initiative called RED, spear-headed by singer/activist Bono, aims to contribute to this funding by contributing money from designated products bought by first-world consumers - you and me. Although there are many ways the Global Fund receives funding and distributes funding (like the program I viewed in India), RED's contributions go to fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Here's where you come in. Designated products from Motorola, American Express, The Gap, Georgio Armani, Converse, Apple, and Hallmark contribute part of their proceeds to the Global Fund. Your money will go towards HIV/AIDS drugs and outreach programs in Africa like the one I witnessed in India. Plus you get a holiday gift. It is a wonderful model to help alleviate a massive pandemic just by being informed consumers.

Please take the time to read about RED and its products here:

http://www.joinred.com/

Then act as informed consumers this Christmas season and buy RED gifts (this doesn't mean the gifts are necessarily red) for your loved ones. I have seen the effects of one Global Fund iniative in India. HIV/AIDS patients live healthy lives by receiving these drugs and benefit from other programs. Be a part of this effort that alleviates the suffering of those who need it most.

And if any feel inclined to send me Christmas cards...I hope it would be a Hallmark RED card :)

Peace and Blessings,

Will