RED CROSS NGLP STUDENTS LAUNCH FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT

INTERNATIONAL MEASLES INITIATIVE

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Thursday, February 17, 2011—The American Red Cross’ Next Generations Leaders Program has teamed with the Measles Initiative to raise money for its “Vaccinate a Village Project.” The Measles Initiative helps provide awareness and raise funds for measles vaccinations. This international collaboration, comprised of the Red Cross, Centers for Disease Control, United Nations Foundation, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization, has helped vaccinate more than 700 million children, reducing measles deaths by 78 percent worldwide.

“The project provides an opportunity for students not only to contribute to the community by volunteering time, but to take it a step further and evaluate the service and the impact they are making in the world,” said Liz Cinquino, Assistant Director at the American Red Cross.

The fundraising initiative is part of the Red Cross’ Next Generation Leaders Program, a youth mentoring program designed specifically to help inner city students succeed. Students from various schools grades 7 to 12 have separated into two teams competing to raise the most money toward the cause. Each team is reaching out to the community to raise awareness and funds. They have also created flyers for schools and other public areas. The goal is for each team to raise $500 for the Measles Initiative by March 10.

“The goal is to inspire youth to continue promoting service learning to the community,” said Cinquino. “Students will not only provide service, but find the value in helping others.”

For as little as $1, one child can get vaccinated for measles; $5 vaccinates a family; and $10 vaccinates a whole school. To learn more information on the Measles Initiative or to learn how to start a fundraiser, visit measlesinitiative.org. To join a planned fundraiser in your local area, contact the Greater Rochester American Red Cross at 585-241-4484.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization—not a government agency—and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit rochesterredcross.com or contact us at 585-241-4400.