SPECIAL EDITION – HONORING WORLD AIDS DAY
DECEMBER 1, 2008
Supporting World AIDS Day
Have We Forgotten About AIDS in America?
Today marks the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day. It’s hard to believe that the first HIV-related symptoms were discovered in 1981. Since that fateful day, AIDS has lead to more than 25 million deaths, and an estimated 33 million people (more than 1 million in the US) currently live with HIV worldwide. Yet, interestingly enough…AIDS doesn’t seem to command the support here in the US that it used to. What’s up with that? Perhaps it’s because it isn’t brought to our attention as much in the media these days or maybe, it’s just because we’ve got a lot of newer issues we’ve turned our attention to, like global warming or the economy. But, we have a long way to go to find a cure for this insidious disease. Let’s not cast it aside. At least for this one day, let’s all pay attention to AIDS and do something to support the ongoing campaign. Here are things we’ve found that you can get behind.
MAKE A DONATION TO ELTON
Sir Elton John’s EJAF (Elton John AIDS Foundation) has become one of the world’s leading non-profit organizations supporting innovative HIV prevention programs. EJAF provides direct care and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Since its founding in 1992, EJAF has raised over $150 million to support urgently needed programs across the US and in 55 countries around the globe. We’re sure Sir Elton would appreciate the support, as would those who benefit from his effort. www.ejaf.org
BUY (RED) SAVE LIVES
The Red Campaign was created by Bono and Bobby Shriver to get private companies involved in the fight against AIDS in Africa, with a focus on women and children. It has grown into a brand of wonderful RED products…literally the color red…from some great companies, like The Gap, Apple and Converse, to name a few. Part of the proceeds from sales of RED products goes to The Global Fund, one of the world’s top organizations, financing programs to fight AIDS. So, go ahead, buy a special edition RED iPod nano or some cute RED Converse sneakers and help make a difference. www.joinred.com
MAKE A SMALL PURCHASE...MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE!
In this economy, perhaps you are not able to make the kind of donation you’d like this year. Well, when you buy the fashionable “I’m Tired of AIDS” bracelet from “I’m Tired of… (ITo) for just $10, made out of recycled tires and metals, $5 (that’s half) will be donated to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, the worldwide leader in the fight against children’s AIDS in 18 countries worldwide. The foundation was inspired by Elizabeth Glaser, who was infected 
with the AIDS virus through a blood transfusion, and unknowingly passed it on to both of her children. Its mission is “to prevent pediatric HIV infection and to eradicate pediatric AIDS through research, advocacy, and prevention and treatment programs,” offering hope for children and families living with HIV. These bracelets make inexpensive and meaningful holiday gifts. www.ImTiredOnline.com
START TRAINING TO PARTICIPATE IN AN AIDS WALK
AIDS Walks take place all over the country during the year. Simply put, they are fundraising walkathons that support local AIDS charities and programs. It’s a great activity to get your family, friends or business associates involved in raising money and then walking together to show your support for fighting AIDS. You can find the next AIDS Walk in your area by visiting www.aidswalk.net.
(RED) IS ON A ROLL!
This just in… Today, on World AIDS Day, Project (RED) is launching (RED) WIRE. This is cool… Meant 
to continue to bring awareness to and raise money for fighting AIDS in Africa, (RED) WIRE, a joint campaign between (RED) and MSN, is an online digital music magazine with some amazing artists contributing original songs, like John Legend (left), Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow (right), Keith Urban, R.E.M. and so many more. MSN will be broadcasting a new world premier performance every hour today! Sign up and every week you’ll get new exclusive music from these great artists and more, and people in Africa will get the AIDS medicines they need. www.red.msn.com
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