IMUMA: ACCESS and SRI launch partnership to bring Faith, Hope and Love to Tanzania project
Background on IMUMA: Imani, Upendo na Matumaini
Orphan and Vulnerable Children Centre in Tanzania
Supporting IMUMA
Wear a necklace, support youth
The centre was named Mtoto Mchoraji, which is Swahili for Drawing Children, to highlight drawing as the foundation of visual art and also signify that when taught the skills, children can be empowered to draw out their own lives.
Youth Making a Difference Workshop for high school students opens registration
BRAMPTON - The second annual Youth Making a Difference Workshop, hosted by the local youth-run non-profit ACCESS Charity, is being held on March 24, 2010 in Brampton, Ontario. Registration is due March 5.
The purpose of the event is to educate, empower, raise awareness and work in solidarity for change with the youth in Peel Region and beyond. Inspiring guest speakers, community service opportunities, engaging activities and exciting performances await local high school students.
This year's workshop theme is Passion to Action, based on youth putting their passions into action; becoming active and involved in issues that are important to them. One of the goals is to encourage and enable youth to engage with community-based organizations to explore opportunities to transform their interests into action through local volunteerism.
What: Youth Making a Difference Workshop (Passion to Action)
When: Wednesday, March 24, 2010 from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where: Century Gardens Recreation Centre (340 Vodden St E)
Who: Secondary School Students from Peel Region, non-profits
Register by Friday, March 5, 2010
Online: www.youthmakingadifference.ca
$10 per student (includes lunch and event materials)
- Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board Registration
- Peel District School Board and Organization Registration
- Youth Volunteer Registration Form
Event Schedule, participating organizations, and a promotional video are also available on the event website. A printable poster (11" x 17") can be downloaded here.
Last year's workshop, held in Brampton in May 2009, was an initiative of ACCESS Charity and Continental Rescue Africa, both local youth-run organizations. This year, the event is hosted by ACCESS and is funded in part by the Youth in Action Grant (United Way & Region of Peel) and is supported by the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, Institute for Youth Citizenship, Brampton Mayor's Youth Team, and Rapport Youth & Family Services.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KSfI-buLWE]
Media Inquiries:
Daniel Francavilla, President | daniel@accesscharity.ca
Kody Robinson, PR Coordinator | kody@
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World Day of Social Justice is February 20, 2010
ACCESS invites you to raise funds for education and increase awareness of social development issues and the importance of this international day on Friday, February 19 at your school or place of business.
Media Inquiries:
Daniel Francavilla, President
daniel@accesscharity.ca
Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@
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Earthquake in Haiti
If you are in the position to donate, please contribute online now so your funds can be delivered to relief efforts in Haiti as soon as possible at donate.accesscharity.ca.
"This natural disaster has hit a country with an extremely fragile infrastructure, where many buildings are already unstable, and where living conditions are often very difficult. I fear for its people.I would like all Haitians to know that they are not alone and that the people of Canada will respond to this emergency."
- Updates from: Google News, YouTube, Real-time updates
- Local Media: TNH, Le Nouvelliste, Radio Metropole Haiti, Radio Galaxie
- Resources: Ushahidi (online tracking), Le3900.com (Haiti business directory)
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Happy Holiday Season and Best Wishes for 2010
Grant for Workshop: Peel Region and United Way invest in the region's youngest leaders
Positions and placements available for committed volunteers
ACCESS is offering non-paid volunteer positions for those looking to get involved on a committed, short-term, part-time level. Community Service Hours will be provided, and co-op placement for academic credit will be evaluated. The following roles are managed under corresponding ACCESS Executive Members. The term begins in November 2009 and will be complete by June 2010 at the latest.
To apply to these positions, please email volunteer@accesscharity.ca with the subject line "Volunteer Position Application" including your Resume, availability, and approximately 250 words describing yourself and your interest in ACCESS. These positions will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis, with an announcement of the filled positions being added to the end of this original post at news.accesscharity.ca.
The following positions are currently available:
Youth Making a Difference Workshop Outreach Rep
For the Youth Making a Difference Workshop, Duties include contacting potential event sponsors and local businesses to request and make arrangements for funds and prizes, researching details on catering and food contributions or pricing, contacting schools and distributing posters for the event. Requires regular, consistent email access and strong communication skills. This position requires direct contact with the ACCESS Events Coordinator for tasks and updates.
Speak Up for Change Junior Editor
For the Speak Up for Change Blog, duties include contacting writers to inform of new topics or changes in scheduling, replying to writer emails and/or external organizations (upon request only), searching for new and relevant content on the web to feature on Speak Up for Change, and seeking out potential writers and youth to sign up as contributors to the blog. Occasionally may be asked to seek out sponsors and/or grants to apply for. Requires frequent, consistent email and Internet access. Excellent communication and writing skills are necessary. This position requires direct contact with the Speak Up for Change Editor, for tasks and updates.
Arts for Change Talent Show Assistant Coordinator
Duties include contacting potential businesses and organizations to seek sponsorship or involvement in the Arts for Change Talent Show, distributing posters to schools or community centers, seeking out and contacting performers for auditions and rehearsals. Requires consistent email access and clear communication skills. This position requires direct contact with the ACCESS Events Coordinator for regular tasks and updates.
Please share this with others you know that may be interested in these positions. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email volunteer@accesscharity.ca. We look forward to reviewing all applicants!
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ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Raising funds on campus: Universities getting involved
As a youth-run organization, ACCESS encourages schools and youth organizations to get involved in raising awareness and raising funds for education projects in the developing world.
While offering Educational Presentations and Educator Resources to elementary and secondary schools, ACCESS also works to raise funds and increase involvement in the post-secondary level. Events from two Ontario university campuses are highlighted below, recognizing their efforts and encouraging future involvement from schools.
Events at Laurier University raise funds and awareness
In the fall semester of 08-09, Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario hosted two events in support of ACCESS.
Drawing much excitement from students was the Throw Whip Cream at Your Profs event. On another day, there was a Starbucks Coffee Sale on campus, with all proceeds benefiting ACCESS. The funds raised have been donated directly towards ACCESS projects in the developing world.
These fundraisers were organized by XLerate Business Club, a student-driven organization focused on developing key skills that are critical for success both in university and the business world. It is Laurier's largest student organization, providing resources such as seminars and leadership opportunities.
University students raise funds in Toronto residence
The Residence Council at 89 Chestnut Residence, which houses University of Toronto and OCAD students among others, fundraised for ACCESS in the in the 08-09 academic year.
The funds were raised through a Floor Competition, with residents on 24 floors competing by donating coins into jars assigned to each floor. As per the competition's rules, paper bills deducted points when placed in another floor's jar - as an incentive to donate more. Details were posted online here.
The Residence Council also dedicated an additional fundraising event to ACCESS. For Valentine's Day, Candy Grams were sold and delivered to students within the residence in February 2009.
Looking for ways to fundraise for ACCESS this year?
Visit this year's school campaign at accesscharity.ca/phanuel
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Media Inquiries: Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@accesscharity.ca
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Thousands of school supplies collected and sent to Africa
This year's end-of-summer ACCESS School Supply Drive was a tremendous success. Two weekends in August were dedicated to receiving donations of school supplies and collecting funds from local donors.
Over $1,700 was raised for the youth-run ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc throughout this year's drive.
Donations are benefiting school children in developing countries, this year including Tanzania, Africa. ACCESS has delivered the supplies to Canadian Food for Children in Toronto to be shipped and distributed.
As students in many privileged nations begin school this week, children in Tanzania will now be able to learn with the supplies they need to succeed.
Fair Trade products such as chocolate and sugar were also sold at the event to raise funds and awareness of sustainable employment and development projects.
ACCESS would like to extend thanks to all donors as well as St. Marguerite d'Youville and St. Anthony's Churches in Brampton, Ontario for their hospitality.
View the photo slideshow below or see the online gallery here.
Details on the School Supply Drive event can be found at accesscharity.ca/schoolsupplydrive.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Media Inquiries: Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@
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Bring Change: ACCESS announces fourth annual School Supply Drive
Beginning on August 22, 2009 ACCESS will be holding its annual School Supply Drive, benefiting students in developing countries. This is the youth-run non-profit organization’s fourth year hosting the drive, which promotes local activism and supports education internationally. Drop-off locations include St. Marguerite d’Youville Church and St. Anthony’s Church in Brampton.
All donations will benefit school children in developing countries including Tanzania, Africa. Canadian Food for Children, founded by Dr. Andrew Simone, will be shipping and distributing the supplies. All monetary donations will directly support ACCESS education projects in Tanzania, Dominican Republic, and Haiti.
Previous drives have been highly successful, with a multitude of donations received in both monetary donations and new school supplies. Acceptable items include basic materials such as pencils and pens, pencil crayons, sharpeners, erasers, lined paper, notebooks, rulers and more. A more comprehensive list of suggested supplies can be found on the event website, www.accesscharity.ca/
Fair Trade Certified organic chocolate and sugar products will also be sold at the event, to raise funds and spread the message about ethically produced goods. Fair Trade results in improved standards of living for producers, and high-quality products for consumers.
To confirm attendance and invite others to the drive, see the Facebook event page “4th Annual ACCESS School Supply Drive”. A video entitled “Bring Change” has also been created to promote the fundraiser, which can be viewed below, or on the event website.
Come support global education and be the change in your community! Please visit www.accesscharity.ca and www.facebook.com/accesscharity to keep up to date with ACCESS news and events.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTnrwNvMdjQ]
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Media Inquiries: Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@
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Non-Profits on Twitter and Social Media
The cover story on CharityVillage.com this week discusses non-profits, social media, and key strategies for a successful online presence. As more and more online users sign on to Twitter and other social networking websites, it's clear that nonprofits can not afford to ignore this growing trend. That is why ACCESS is actively utilizing the web 2.0. In the article below, ACCESS founder Daniel Francavilla is interviewed about the effects of social media for the non-profit organization.
Tweeting, not just for birds anymore
By Andy Levy-Ajzenkopf
CharityVillage.com
After the Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating (CSGVP) for 2007 results were released recently, it is clear that an important area being watched is the burgeoning use of social networking applications on the Internet, and what they are doing to revolutionize both public and organizational involvement in the sector.
For experienced "netizens," terms like "tweeting," "facebooking," and "friending" are well-known. But to organizations unsure of how to "perch" themselves on the Internet's complex social networking high-wire, the terminology can be baffling. Harder still, is trying to make positive use of the rampant social networks' rapidly evolving culture.
But North American organizations are beginning to see the advantages of using social networking tools to get their messaging out to the public and raise awareness for their causes.
Consider the following U.S. stats, from the Pew Internet and American Life Project survey of more than 2,000 people, on who're using social networking:
- 75% - The number of online adults ages 18-24 who have a profile on a social networking site.
- 74% - The share of Internet users ages 64 and older who send and receive email - the most popular activity for this group.
- 27% - The number of bloggers who say they have used Twitter or a similar service to share status updates.
A similar Canadian survey of 1,019 people conducted by MSN and Harris/Decima in March revealed the following stats:
- 9 out of 10 Canadians maintain more than one online account.
- 8 out of 10 Canadians spend at least an hour a day on the Internet for personal reasons; of those, nearly half (45%) are spending three or more hours online.
- 1/3 of Canadians check their social networking profiles frequently throughout the day.
And it's expected these numbers will only rise.
Navigating the digital "ecosystem"
According to Evelyn So, president of Noesium Consulting Inc., which specializes in advising voluntary sector organizations on how to make the best use of the Internet in their operating strategies, the first concept charities need to come to grips with about social networking is that it takes more than just creating a profile to make it work for you.
"One of the main problems is that many companies, profits or nonprofits, do not differentiate 'social media' from 'social media tools,'" she says. "Tools are technology/platforms like Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. Social media, on the other hand, is the whole ecosystem of how people communicate with each other. You cannot just say 'Let's get on Twitter' and consider that social media. In fact, this almost guarantees failure - you will be wasting your resources and efforts...worst case, such action can backfire."
But she says that the Canadian voluntary landscape is ripe for the use of this new technology for many reasons, but mainly because "The nonprofit sector...is community-driven, it taps into and is often very responsive to its target audience and most importantly...there is a clear mission. In addition, they are influential social changers who share these key attributes."
"Fundraising, volunteer gathering, and awareness campaigns [are] all about conveying messages to and connecting with people," So asserts. "And social networks are where people are nowadays and will continue to be. While charities cannot do everything virtually - face to face will always be a huge part of communication - social media allows nonprofits to tap into a large audience and the networks connected to this audience. They still need to target the right people, of course, but the process is made far more efficient via technology."
E-talking the e-talk
Unsurprisingly, many sector organizations have turned to sites such as Twitter, Facebook, Friendster and others as a fast and efficient way to connect with interested parties and gather a virtual membership, if not some actual volunteers.
In fact, one of the most influential organizations on the Canadian scene, Imagine Canada, has been intensively using social networking over the last two years.
During a recent interview, Marnie Grona, marketing and communications director with Imagine, told CharityVillage that to her social networking was "like word-of-mouth...on steroids."
Grona is the "dedicated" staffer for social networking at Imagine, which she says she enjoys immensely as she "has an aptitude" for it, even if it adds to her already full plate of responsibilities, she quips.
"One of the things [sector organizations] should do is to have somebody who takes ownership" of the social networking portfolio, she counsels. "You have to adjust your communications strategy for each [social network] channel, because each will have its own audience, who in turn will use and share information a little differently."
For Grona, the major benefit derived from tapping into the rapid-fire world of social networking is that it comes at virtually no direct financial cost.
"We're moving from the monologue to the dialogue."
Of course, it does take time to master and to integrate it with other communications channels for maximum effectiveness, Grona cautions. "But it's been a great way to get our message out there...to have conversations with people. Instead of a one-way monologue [of messaging], we can talk with people so they know what we do and what they think about us and what's going on in the sector. We're moving from the monologue to the dialogue."
This is probably an apt way to sum up the revolution happening in sector communication strategies across the nation. From small to large organizations, nonprofits are actually talking with - instead of talking at - the populace.
Not-so-broken social scene
Ontario-based charity, Allowing Children a Chance at Education [ACCESS], is one organization that has gone completely social.
Its president, Daniel Francavilla, was so keen to explain the benefits to CV, he jumped at the opportunity to comment for this story, by proactively contacting the author prior to deadline.
"As a relatively small youth-run organization, we recognize the countless advantages to having an active online presence. Event promotions can be done quickly and free of charge online, while being even more effective than putting up print posters in the community," he says. "Because ACCESS is made up of students, and because today's youth are nearly all online, social networking sites [along with] our blog and website, are the best possible ways to promote [ourselves]." Though Francavilla effusively praises this new technology, he admits there are still some areas that have yet to bear fruit.
"The success of social networking for nonprofits is also dependent upon the success and popularity of online giving. While awareness and memberships are very useful and encouraging, most organizations aim to gain financial support from their 'followers' in the end," he says.
Still, the relative online success of his organization is undeniable. According to his stats, ACCESS now has more than 1,200 fans on Facebook and another 650 on Twitter, the latter of which makes him optimistic for the future of social networking as a viable tool.
"Twitter has opened up our lines of communication to a whole new world of social activists, supporters, web specialists, and more in a very exciting way. Twitter has helped [us] to share news and to draw traffic to our website and blog...[and] has definitely been the best way to promote readership, gain subscribers, and recruit new content from other tweeters. We also promote our Facebook page and other profiles through tweets, and check out other organizations' links regularly."
Yet despite all this success, Francavilla also knows that there are big hurdles for a small organization such as his to overcome. Namely, that established, well-funded sector organizations maintain a competitive advantage and can sometimes "overshadow" others for attracting donor dollars and volunteers, because they can afford to spend on more lavish social network sites and page placements.
"Even though social networks like Twitter and Facebook are free of charge for all users, other individuals and larger organizations at both the for-profit and nonprofit levels do pay for advertising and promotion on social networks," he says. "You will notice this difference when you look at completely enhanced Facebook pages for corporations - such as TD Money Lounge for example- who also trying to reach the student market online."
The future's so bright, I gotta wear e-shades
Despite a potential imbalance between organizations that can and can't afford to spiffy up their online presence, the general sentiment by experts would seem to indicate that online dialoguing is only going to become more crucial for charities as time moves on.
According to So, Canadians are a nation of "passionate social changers" who constantly adapt to new technologies. However, she cautions that while "the potential of social media is totally undeniable...it is the thinking, planning, execution, and maintenance that a company needs to get in place first," in order for it to be successfully executed as a communications strategy.
"I always advise companies to start with someone who can provide a solid strategy, an understanding of the social media space, followed by a social media plan...which includes who, what, when, and how tactics," So says. "Consider this like building a park then having a team of staff to maintain and grow it. The exact scope will depend on the specific endeavour. If, say, Facebook is the only tool that is suitable based on the strategy, you may only need one person. But if you are building a more complex web [presence] with Facebook, Twitter, blogging, etc., you will need dedicated staff to (a) oversee the ecosystem and (b) manage and upkeep each platform. Also, don't forget that offline activities are also part of this ecosystem."
Grona suggests that organizations keep an eye out for more studies on the topic in the next year, so they can better acclimatize to the new online social order.
But as a last bit of parting advice, she advises nonprofits not to get caught up in the numbers game of social networking stats.
"It takes a while to build that [critical] mass of followers and fans," she says. "[Imagine] has been on Twitter for about seven months and I remember the day we climbed over the 1,000 followers mark, I was amazed. But while it's easy to get caught up with the numbers, it's not the amount of followers, but the quality of the conversations you're having with them that counts the most. So for social marketing, it's quality not quantity."
Andy Levy-Ajzenkopf is president of WordLaunch professional writing services in Toronto. He can be reached at andy@wordlaunch.com.
The original article, "Tweeting, not just for birds anymore" can be found at CharityVillage.com.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. ACCESS has been fundraising since March 2006.
For media inquiries, please email pr@accesscharity.ca or for general inquires email info@accesscharity.ca. Full details and resources can be found at www.accesscharity.ca.
Shop with purpose while supporting ACCESS online
If you could donate a percentage of every online purchase you make to ACCESS to support education projects, would you do it?
We hope so! We-Care.com lets you do this, with more than 900 online merchants. Just click through the access.we-care.com marketplace and shop on your favourite online stores as you normally would, and a percentage will be automatically donated to ACCESS.
Not sure when or where you would use this? Participating merchants include retail, travel, financial services, and quite a bit more. Book your flight and hotel. Rent a car. Shop for books. Apply for a mortgage. Buy furniture and household items. Send gifts. Search for apartments. Pick out a cell phone plan. Order web hosting and office supplies. Subscribe to magazines, newspapers, DVD services, and even satellite TV.
Planning on buying a book from Chapters or Indigo? Next time you are, you can support ACCESS online!
You can also install the We-Care.com plug-in for Internet Explorer or Firefox. With a plug-in, your donations will count (even if you forget to visit We-Care.com).
ACCESS benefits from all of your purchases through access.we-care.com - the program costs nothing for ACCESS, and there's no extra charge for you. Not only can you give, you also have access to special offers and discounts.
Enjoy being an occasional shopper or even a "shopaholic" while using access.we-care.com to extend your dollar from just your favourite book or pair of shoes to the comfort of knowing that you helped a worthy cause, ACCESS!
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally. For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Contact:
Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@accesscharity.ca
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Youth Making a Difference Workshop to inspire local youth activism
With the popular inspirational words “you must be the change you wish to see in the world” from Mahatma Gandhi, ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education has joined forces with Continental Rescue Africa to present an exciting event - the Youth Making a Difference Workshop.
With similar visions of global education and youth empowerment, CRA and ACCESS will be hosting the Youth Making a Difference Workshop on
Friday, May 29, 2009 at Century Gardens Recreation Centre in Brampton, Ontario.The day features inspiring guest speakers and a variety of local non-profit organizations (including Student Reach, Volunteering Peel & Volunteer MBC, Youth Exchange, Youth Can Move the World, Mississauga Youth Games, Change the Future Foundation, Mississauga Mayor's Youth Team, Brampton Mayor's Youth Team, Project YouthTube, ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Continental Rescue Africa and more).
Register Online today or learn more at www.accesscharity.ca/workshop.
The goals of the workshop are to educate, empower, and raise awareness among youth.
- Educating: Equip them with more than the passion they need to work in social justice but also with the knowledge of HOW they can join us all in creating change. Provide them with the many options available to them to volunteer and to help them in starting their own organization
- Raising Awareness: organizations which engage in development work and social justice issues such as; poverty, famine, illiteracy, gender-based violence, gender-based issues, youth activism, job creation etc. will be given the platform to raise awareness about the critical nature of these issues and how we are implicated.
- Empowering: The specific scope of this workshop will be defined by the organizations which choose to work with us to empower the youth of today about how they can make change and be apart of change in their communities.
This workshop has been designed carefully to compliment curriculum and topics discussed in Ontario Schools. Students will gain new insight into the knowledge they have acquired in the classroom, and will further be empowered to make a difference. Students will be inspired to make the change they wish to see in the world and empower others through raising awareness.
Registration for the Youth Making a Difference Workshop is open online at accesscharity.ca/workshop. Registration closes soon so please do so as soon as possible!
- Please invite others to the workshop through its Facebook Event page!
- Register Online or learn more at www.accesscharity.ca/workshop.
- Email info@accesscharity.ca with any inquiries.
Support Literacy during Global Action Week!
Support Literacy with Global Action Week through ACCESS Charity and the Canadian Global Campaign for Education
From April 20-26, 2009, children and adults around the world are invited to participate in Global Action Week. This year’s theme is Literacy, featuring the Big Read event.
ACCESS is promoting Global Action Week and is encouraging schools, students, and individuals to take action! A webpage has been launched at www.accesscharity.ca/globalactionweek.
Global Action Week is lead by the Canadian Global Campaign for Education, a coalition of NGOs, research institutes, faculties of education and teachers’ federations that are helping more people receive a quality education throughout the world.
The Big Read campaign’s aims to increase awareness of the struggles of those who are deprived of the chance that an education gives them in life. Unable to read, write or count, many cannot defend their rights and are often trapped in a lifetime of poverty. Around the world there are about 774 million illiterate adults, the majority being women. Occurring in over 100 countries, the week is part of a campaign to give every child and adult in the world an education by 2015.
Teachers and students have the chance to join millions by participating in the event through a variety of ways:
- Fundraise for Children in the Developing World through ACCESS
- Write About Literacy & Activism on the Speak Up for Change Blog
- Register Officially for Global Action Week Online
- Write a Petition to the Government of Canada
- Download Educator Resources and Curriculum
- Take Part on the Big Read
Consider participating in support of the campaign for Education for All and ACCESS international education projects. Together, help to become the first generation to ensure that the entire world can have a quality education!
For full details and resources on how to take action during Global Action Week, please visit www.accesscharity.ca/globalactionweek!
To subscribe to further Email Updates from ACCESS, please click here.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally.
For more information and resources, please visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Contact:
Daniel Francavilla, President
daniel@accesscharity.ca
Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@accesscharity.ca
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Educational presentations provide knowledge and inspiration for youth
ACCESS offers presentations that educate and inspire youth to make a difference!
In today's complex society, global issues are becoming more of a focus. With growing economic disparity, issues such as poverty, education and sustainability are increasingly important.
“You have inspired me and the students I teach to think and act beyond the borders of our own comfort zones. I thank you for awakening in us ears, hearts and hands willing to listen, feel and work towards a more just distribution of education opportunities for all.” - Dale Cimolai, Teacher
Presentations are customizable to meet specific educational requirements, event themes, or school campaigns. Topics include; Social Justice, Youth Activism, Making a Difference, Life in the Developing World, Dominican Republic Exposure Experience, and ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education.
“Your presentation allowed students to understand how fortunate they are to have what they have and how important it is to be aware of how little others have and why we are duty-bound to give to those in need.” - Sonia Rotino, Principal
As a youth-run organization, ACCESS promotes youth's power to make a difference. Once inspired, students and groups can take action! Fundraising campaigns are available.
For booking details, please visit http://accesscharity.ca/presentations.htm and download the ACCESS Presentation Flyer here.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally.
For more information, resources and inquiries, visit www.accesscharity.ca.
Contact:
Daniel Francavilla, President
daniel@accesscharity.ca
Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@accesscharity.ca
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Three years ago today, a dream was born
The unsuspecting weekend of March 4, 2006 held the conception of the non-profit organization ACCESS Charity, three eventful years ago.
Since the initial presentation about the Dominican Republic Exposure Trip at a Brampton church was followed by a collection of over $8,000 three years ago, ACCESS has developed into an active youth-run organization. (Full text from the initial presentation can be read online here.)
In light of their unofficial third anniversary, ACCESS is releasing a 2-minute promotional video.
The video, embedded below, was created by Heads or Tails and tells a brief story about the organization and its roots.
If you cannot see it below, please click here to view the new promotional video.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4h-pEv4BR8]
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. was officially incorporated in the province of Ontario on May 28, 2008. For details on this non-profit status, click here.
Today, ACCESS continues to expand both its international education and local youth involvement projects. ACCESS strives to provide children in the developing world with school uniforms and supplies, giving them the opportunity to obtain an education and successful future. ACCESS also aims to educate youth across North America about relevant issues, youth activism, and about the current situation in the developing world.
ACCESS offers a variety of local programs including Educator Resources, Educational Presentations, Speak Up for Change Youth Blog and Volunteer Opportunities along with international development projects including a Haitian student's university fund, School Supply Drives for Honduran students, and more.
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For media inquiries, email kody@accesscharity.ca. Please contact us here for general inquiries.
World Day of Social Justice and "Phanuel Friday"
Youth-run organization offers fundraising opportunity benefiting global education
TORONTO - February 16, 2009 - Celebrating World Day of Social Justice this Friday has been made easier for everyone including educators, media outlets, and community organizations. Phanuel Friday is an initiative being launched by ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, a youth-run non-profit organization benefitting the developing world and empowering students locally.
Phanuel is a young man living in Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, where only about half of the population is literate and primary school net enrollment is also only estimated at 50%. Being accepted to university is a dream for Phanuel and his entire community! ACCESS is calling individuals, through communities such as schools, to make a small step in recognizing that all youth, regardless of their status, should be given a chance to achieve a the highest level of education!
The event called "Phanuel Friday" focuses on a simple $2 donation from each and every willing and able student in one such school, community, or group, to fund Phanuel's full university education costs, providing an individual with access to a valuable education which he would otherwise not be able to afford.
Annually on February 20, World Day of Justice was created by the United Nations to encourage people to look at how social justice affects poverty eradication. It also focuses on the goal of achieving full employment and support for social integration.
The campaign continues beyond Friday's World Day of Social Justice. Schools, parishes, and community organizations are asked to host a "Phanuel Friday" during the month of February and March this year.
Details on the campaign can be found at accesscharity.ca/phanuelfriday.htm
To subscribe to Email Updates from ACCESS, please click here.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally.
For more information or media inquiries, visit www.accesscharity.ca for resources including downloadable documents, project details, and photos and video.
Contact:
Daniel Francavilla, President
daniel@accesscharity.ca
Kody Robinson, Public Relations Coordinator
kody@accesscharity.ca
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Supporting a dream through school expansion project in Jamaica
As a collaborative development project, ACCESS is involved in the expansion of a primary school in Jamaica.
Ken Cooper, a Brampton, Ontario resident, took time to visit the school he attended 36 years ago while on a recent trip to Jamaica.
Polly Ground Basic School is the equivalent of a pre-school in North America for 3 to 5 year olds. It is located just over two hours east of Montego Bay and two hours west of Kingston, in the middle of the Island. It is in what is considered a rural area.
Ken shares his experience in Jamaica, which was the inspiration to initiate the Jamaica Project, for which details follow.
As I walked through the doorway, I noticed how crowded it was. The one room school had been divided into 3 classes, by 2 blackboards.Although many of the children were already at school early, the majority had not yet arrived. There appeared to be little room for others. I also noticed the temperature difference between outside and inside the school. It was hot, even for Jamaica, and it was not yet 8:30 am.
I introduced myself to the first adult that I saw. She happened to be the teacher and also the principal of the school. I told her that I was a former student and just wanted to see the school. She allowed me to look around and speak to the children for a few minutes.
After making conversation with the principal about how little things have changed she asked if I was in a position to assist her with increasing the size of the school. She went on to say they are in need of the basics things like books, pencils, paper and even toys for the kids to play with. But the most important thing she mentioned was increasing the size of the school. I asked, “Isn’t there a school board that is supposed to look after these things?” She said we would be better trying to do what we can for ourselves. I told her I was not in a position to assist her by myself, but that perhaps I could ask some others to assist.She requested, “Maybe you could get us a fan”. I said, “Sure, I can do that”. She asked, “can you get three since we have 3 classes?” By this time all the children had arrived for school. The small one room school was now housing over 50 students. The schoolroom was full, it became hotter and the noise level was incredible. I was shocked to see that there were 6 kids sharing the same desk simple because there was no space to but another one. I went to the market later that day and purchased 3 wall mounted fans and installed them the next day. When we turned them on and the papers started to fly around the children started to laugh. The all said ‘thank you’. The feeling I was left with was like they had given me a million dollars. It was awesome!
The school is currently 1300 square feet in total. The main goal of this project is to build an additional 800 square feet so that the children will have a better learning environment. Additional funds will be used to purchase books and supplies.
In January 2009, a fundraiser was held in Mississauga, Ontario raising over $4,000 through various activities including a silent auction. The total goal for this project is $16,000.00 CAN, or approximately one million dollars Jamaican.
Donations to the project can be made online through ACCESS by clicking here. Tax receipts are available for donations over $20, and must be made via cash or cheque. To inquire about donation details please email info@accesscharity.ca.
For updates on this initiative, please visit jamaica.accesscharity.ca.
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc. is a youth-run organization aiming to provide needy children in the developing world with school uniforms and necessary school supplies, enabling them with the opportunity to obtain an education for decent employment and a successful life. ACCESS also aims to educate North American youth about related world issues, and to inspire them to make a difference globally.
For more information or media inquiries, visit www.accesscharity.ca where resources including project details, and photos and video are available.
Inspired student and family fundraise
Once again, elementary school student Christian Malatesta along with parents and sister Bianca, acted on his personal desire to help children in the developing world receive an education.
Inspired by the story of ACCESS Members' experiences in the developing world, the Malatesta's took on their own initiative to raise funds for the second time. Selling baked goods within their Brampton elementary school this winter, the family raised over $300 for ACCESS projects overseas.
ACCESS recognizes the support of the family, through their passionate supporter, Christian. In 2006, the Malatesta's held a cookie bake sale for teachers, in addition to generously donated their personal gift-money, raising $400 in total.
ACCESS Charity Official Blog = ACCESS Charity Official News
What was previously known as the ACCESS Charity Official Blog has now been converted to the ACCESS Charity Official News source.
Instead of housing occasional secondary posts, this will now be the primary source for all official ACCESS news and announcements, while still operating through blog format. It has replaced the News page on the ACCESS website, www.accesscharity.ca.
In addition, our news can also be accessed directly, at blog.accesscharity.ca.
To receive ACCESS Charity News Updates in your email inbox, please Subscribe here.
Previous subscribers will continue to receive news and articles, as they are posted, via email. We apologize for the older posts you may have received in your email inbox, as we have been updating our news archive.
We invite you to visit our website often and share your thoughts by commenting on our postings.
Thanks for your continued support!
The Executive Team
ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc.