It's that time of year when people pledge to exercise more, work
less, and spend more time with family and friends. In addition to these
traditional New Year's aspirations, a growing number of people are
making a different kind of resolution -- to give back.
Already
known as a legendary musician and artist, Jay-Z is now making his mark
in philanthropy as he helps to change the lives of millions and
inspires others to do the same.
Born Shawn Corey Carter, Jay-Z
recently joined with former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to announce
an exciting partnership aimed at bringing attention and relief to the
many parts of the world where lack of safe drinking water is destroying
communities and lives. An estimated 1 billion people worldwide do
not have access to clean water. In fact, unsafe water and lack of
sanitation is now the single largest cause of illness. Incredibly, it
is also an issue that can be addressed through technology that is
available today.
As part of his recent international tour,
Jay-Z traveled to several areas affected by the crisis and met children
and families who are without access to drinking water. He also visited
communities that are benefiting from sustainable, environmentally
friendly solutions. His experiences in Africa were filmed by MTV for a
documentary, "
Diary of Jay-Z in Africa: Water for Life."
As
the documentary shows, the experience made a profound impact on the
artist, who has committed to make a difference and hopes that others
will follow his example. As part of his resolution to give back, he has
pledged to support
PlayPumps International, a nonprofit that is also supported by the Case Foundation.
The PlayPump
TM
water system is powered by children at play. Installed near
schools, the system doubles as a water pump and a merry-go-round for
children. PlayPumps International has a goal of installing 4,000
pumps by 2010, to bring the benefits of clean water to 10 million
people in sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition to raising
awareness and personally sponsoring the installation of 10 pumps, Jay-Z
has committed to help raise funds for 100 pumps, which will bring the
benefits of clean drinking water to as many as 250,000 people. He has
made significant progress toward that goal with a November concert in
New York that netted $250,000 for PlayPumps International.
"It's
a basic thing to us," Jay-Z said. "If you bring awareness to other
young people, they're going to want to be involved. I'm not a
politician...I'm just a regular person with a heart."
To make a resolution to help support PlayPumps International, please visit
www.playpumps.org.
The Case Foundation, 2008. All Rights Reserved.
