By Tim Saunders on
Maroon 5, the Counting Crows, Maria Bello, Adam Duritz and many others have helped launch a new initiative based on the premise that every small action can make a big difference to ensure quality education and economic opportunity for all.
Intel are behind the new initiative – called the Small Things Challenge – and want as many people as possible to donate just 5 cents. Their idea is simple: no matter how small the contribution, when we all work together, we can have a big impact.
As well as a recording a PSA, stars such as the Counting Crows and Maroon 5 recently auctioned signed guitars and other musical instruments to raise cash for the initiative, with proceeds going to Kiva and Save the Children.
According to Intel: "The Small Things Challenge aims to raise awareness and money for two of the world’s most pressing challenges: increasing access to quality education and fostering economic development in emerging countries, such as Afghanistan, Cambodia, Haiti and Sudan.
“Throughout the developing world more than 75 million primary age children are not in school; and at least 80 percent of humanity lives on less than $10 a day, according to data from the United Nations. While these issues will continue to challenge our world for some time, we can improve peoples’ lives through pooling surprisingly small contributions.
“The Small Things Challenge encourages people worldwide to get involved and be part of the solution. Every small, individual action can make a big difference, especially if millions participate. A small donation to Save the Children, combined with other individuals’ contributions, will provide thousands of primary school children in conflict-affected countries the opportunity to attend school. Or, a modest micro-loan through Kiva.org will give an entrepreneur a hand-up to start a new business and provide for his or her family.”
To view the star-studded PSA, click here.
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