By Mariana Leon Smith
The United Nations Children’s Fund is an international non-governmental organization whose goals are to protect and promote the health, education and equality of every child.
The University of Louisville has its own organization, better known as UNICEF-UL, who supports UNICEF, and the goals they seek to achieve are at a more local level. Fundraisers, educating the community and advocating for certain policies are some of the tools this campus organization uses to serve their purpose.
UNICEF-UL president Jacquelyn Roe said the organization works to “promote girls’ education, provide relief during emergencies, fight violence and exploitation of children, advocate for certain policies, provide immunizations and better nutrition, work to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and help children and families affected by HIV/AIDS, such as orphaned children.”
Holding regular events on campus and fundraisers aim to get students involved. The Second Annual UNICEF Concert and Cookout was held last Monday, and over 400 students flocked to the Red Barn, many to grab a free meal, but many to actually stick around and find out how they can get involved with the organization. Roe said activities like these serve so many different purposes.
“This event acts as a recruitment tool, a fundraiser and just a fun event where everyone can listen to good music and get a bite to eat,” she said.
The organization welcomes anyone who may be interested in getting involved, and meetings are held every other Thursday in the SAC, room W314.
The next meeting will be on April 6.
“Members can contribute to the campus group in a variety of ways, ranging from local hands-on community service to organizing a campus event. The level of member involvement just depends on the particular student’s availability,” said Roe.
