bluechip

Unmasking Inequality: How COVID-19 Exacerbates Health Disparities for Black Americans

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 21:16:11 GMT

Black Americans are dying of COVID-19
at three times the rate of

non-Hispanic White Americans (1) .

CHECK IT -- As of June 25, the COVID-related hospitalization rate for African Americans was five times higher than the rate for non-Hispanic white persons (2) . By late May, more than 20,000 African Americans – an estimated one in 2,000 of the entire black population in the US – had died from the disease (3) . As we learn more about the COVID pandemic, several factors are consistent as indicators of COVID deaths. Underlying health conditions, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory, are primary indicators for hospitalization, intubation and death. Many of these chronic conditions have their roots in environmental factors, and begin in childhood.

Race is the number one indicator for the placement of toxic facilities in the US (4) .

CHECK IT -- Outstripping even socioeconomic factors, race is the single most significant indicator for toxic facility placement in the US, from coal-fired power plants to incinerators, all of which “emit mercury, arsenic, lead, and other contaminants into the water, food, and lungs of communities,” leading to higher levels of cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, and stress-levels. It is impossible to remove the thread of environmental impact from that of health outcomes (5) .

1 https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/vsrr/covid_weekly/index.htm#Race_Hispanic

2 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/racial-ethnic-minorities.html

3 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/20/black-americans-death-rate-covid-19-coronavirus

4 https://www.naacp.org/issues/environmental-justice/

5 https://www.naacp.org/issues/environmental-justice/

African Americans are almost three times more likely to die from asthma-related causes than non-Hispanic White Americans (6).

CHECK IT -- In addition to higher rates of chronic illness and underlying conditions, Black Americans are at significant risk for infectious illness, in part due to the population’s lower rates of health insurance coverage (7) , and a higher chance of living in a multi-generational household (8) .

Black Americans remained 1.5 times more likely to be uninsured than White Americans from 2010 to 2018 (9) .

CHECK IT -- In addition to their lower rates of insurance coverage, Black Americans experience an overall lower quality of care at American hospitals (10) .

Overall, it is impossible to separate the higher rates of COVID-19 among the US’s Black population from the sub-par health outcomes they face across the board which are driven by the inequalities of access and quality of care that they receive from the American healthcare industry.

6 https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=4&lvlid=15

7 https://www.brookings.edu/blog/usc-brookings-schaeffer-on-health-policy/2020/02/19/there-are-clear-race-based-inequalities-in-health-insurance-and-health-outcomes/

8 https://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/ppi/econ-sec/fs221-housing.pdf

9 https://www.kff.org/disparities-policy/issue-brief/changes-in-health-coverage-by-race-and-ethnicity-since-the-aca-2010-2018/

10 https://www.brookings.edu/blog/usc-brookings-schaeffer-on-health-policy/2020/02/19/there-are-clear-race-based-inequalities-in-health-insurance-and-health-outcomes/

African-American women are three times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women, and the African-American infant mortality rate is twice the rate for white infants (11) .

Racial and ethnic minorities receive lower-quality health care than white people — even when insurance status, income, age, and severity of conditions are comparable (12) .

CHECK IT -- So many of the protests across the US have been centered around systemic failures, and the failure of healthcare in the Black community is no less pervasive and entrenched. The good news, however, is solutions in the healthcare industry can have equally far-reaching effects.

11 https://tcf.org/content/report/racism-inequality-health-care-african-americans/

12 https://www.americanbar.org/groups/crsj/publications/human_rights_magazine_home/the-state-of-healthcare-in-the-united-states/racial-disparities-in-health-care/

A recent study randomly assigned 1,300 African-Americans to Black or non-Black primary care physicians. Those who saw Black doctors received 34 percent more preventive services (13) .

Under Medicaid expansion, Black Americans saw a 9% drop in uninsured population numbers, though the insured population remains low compared to non-Hispanic White populations (14) .

13 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/13/upshot/race-and-medicine-the-harm-that-comes-from-mistrust.html#:~:text=Reinforcing%20the%20fact%20of%20racial,34%20percent%20more%20preventive%20services.

14 https://www.kff.org/disparities-policy/issue-brief/changes-in-health-coverage-by-race-and-ethnicity-since-the-aca-2010-2018/

CHECK IT -- The SDGs identify what is needed to push the global community forward. They specify those aims which would make us healthier, safer, more well. It is easy, given these individual goals, to think of each SDG as a siloed challenge. Yet, each goal is interrelated and inextricably linked. Examining connections between systems allows us to consider, not just the daunting task of addressing systemic inequalities and their myriad repercussions, but also the force multiplier of singular actions.

CHECK IT -- Work to achieve a more just and equitable world requires a close examination of how many of our existing global systems are built upon the unequal frameworks of seemingly unrelated sectors. Dismantling these harmful systems and frameworks and replacing them with more just and equitable alternatives requires not just action but coaction in pursuit of a world with fewer barriers to health, safety and security for all.

SYSTEMS CHECK

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 20:27:27 GMT

by Peter Stengaard

The last few months have shown us, above all, just how fragile the systems we rely on as communities can be for our health, our food supply, our education, our work, our travel, energy sources, and more.

As the pandemic continues to ravage the U.S., the system that has come most under siege has been national healthcare. The degree to which major breakdowns in healthcare access, security, and affordability have contributed to the spread of the pandemic exposes major flaws with our current system and points to an urgent need for change.

How do we begin to rethink and redefine how healthcare is provided in the United States? In order to build back better, we must heed the tough lessons we’re learning now. For this reason, our first “systems check” focuses on select aspects of healthcare that public and philanthropic programs are starting to tackle in innovative ways.

In particular, we are looking at the innovations surrounding respiratory healthcare, a segment of the healthcare industry with obvious repercussions for this COVID moment, but also less obvious connections to the systemic racism and misogyny embedded in American medical institutions.

Systems Check by Peter Stengaard

We don’t have a healthcare system, we have a healthcare industry.”

The COVID-19 pandemic clearly exposes just how fragile and unprepared the US is when it comes to an attack on our health. There seems to be no system in place for coordinating the various needs of the hospitals and governors are falling over each other trying to purchase much needed equipment and supplies for the hospitals in their states, often at ridiculously inflated prices because of the sudden demand. The core of the problem is that almost every hospital is an independent machine - finely tuned to profit from the ailments of the citizens and therefore mostly unprepared for drastic events such as COVID-19 - because it would be bad for the bottom line to have this kind of capacity needed for emergencies. Literally all the other western countries in the world have government run health care systems that are designed to service the citizens, not profit from them - both during more normal times and during states of national emergency. Even non-profit hospitals, which is around 60% of the hospitals in the US are huge profit machines that pay their executives exuberantly and spend millions on lobbying. On average, a bed in a non-profit hospital is more expensive than a bed in a private hospital is per day. It is our belief that a society able to coordinate and fund infrastructure, police and fire departments not to mention the world's strongest army, would also be able to service the health care needs of their citizens in a more efficient, humane, equal, ethical and intelligent way than the healthcare industry in the US currently does.

https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2019/10/15/769792903/how-non-profit-hospitals-are-driving-up-the-cost-of-health-care

https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/hospital-management-administration/50-things-to-know-about-the-hospital-industry-2017.html

Note From the Founders

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 20:17:47 GMT

I hope this note finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Amidst so many global events and disruptions, thank you for taking the time to read this inaugural newsletter.

My husband Peter and I co-founded the Blue Chip Foundation in 2012 to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The COVID-19 crisis has upended much of the world’s SDG planning, programming, and progress. Yet the SDGs have never been more important, as they guarantee rights and resources, like access to health, food and shelter, that are essential for not only combatting the COVID pandemic, but for reducing the risk of future pandemics, too.

National crises of racism and police brutality have once again uncovered the inequalities rampant in our communities and demonstrated even further need for a commitment to the aims of the SDGs both at home and abroad.

The world will look different in the post-COVID era. We can only hope it will look different after this moment of national unrest. Now is the moment to decide how the philanthropic community, including the Blue Chip Foundation, will rise up and help to rebuild our systems in ways that are more just and more sustainable than before. Blue Chip hopes to engage with the broader giving community during this reimagining and rebuilding process, to learn from others’ ideas and share our own in ways that champion transparency and collaboration.

Recent global events demonstrate just how much our social, political, economic and environmental issues are interconnected. COVID exacerbates public health inequities and racial injustice. The criminal justice and bail system exaggerate poverty. Environmental risks are disproportionately higher for more economically vulnerable populations. The Sustainable Development Goal framework is one of the first development frameworks that attempts to reflect this. It is time for our philanthropy to do more, too.

This newsletter will be our way of processing and sharing what we’re learning as we navigate the challenge - and opportunity - of how philanthropy can help to build back better here, in the US, and around the world. We believe that the ethos of holistic philanthropy must go beyond giving - it is the unique privilege and responsibility of philanthropy to draw connections between the systems we engage with and the worlds we inhabit. The SDGs call on all of us to strive for large-scale

We are honored to share a part of this learning journey with you, and we welcome your thoughts, inputs, and feedback on how we can improve.

Please stay safe,

Jenn and Peter

Note From The Founders

Summit of African Women Judges on Human Trafficking & Organized Crime

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 20:31:26 GMT

Vatican City, December 13th, 2019

Vatican City, December 13th, 2019 - The Summit of African Women Judges and Prosecutors on Human Trafficking and Organized Crime convened a group of 50 women leaders engaged in the critical legal fight against human trafficking and organized crime across the African continent. The summit, a continuation of previous meetings in 2017 and 2018, met to propose strategies to enforce and accelerate the impact of their work. The Pontifical Academy of Sciences hosted the two-day summit with support from the Blue Chip Foundation. Pope Francis addressed the assembled legal practitioners with remarks that denounced human trafficking as “the worst form of human exclusion,” and “evidence of the globalization of indifference.” Participants identified key challenges that undermined their work, shared best practices for prosecuting and convicting traffickers, and strategized with religious leaders, philanthropists, and academics to build strong legal frameworks for combatting the scourge of human trafficking.

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The 30th Anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 19:55:01 GMT

Casina Pio, IV//Vatican City//November 14-15, 2019

On the 30th Anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Blue Chip Foundation joined the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences and Telefono Azzurro to support a two-day event at the Vatican entitled “Promoting Digital Child Dignity from Concept to Action” which gathered important religious leaders of different communities, together with, academics, politicians and tech industry executives to address the challenges that children face in the digital world. This summit was co-organized by the Child Dignity and Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities.

The protection of children from all forms of violence is a fundamental right enshrined in both the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and SDG 16.2 which calls for an end to all forms of violence against children.

In his opening address to the summit on November 14th, Pope Francis commended the educational and personal growth opportunities that technology affords young people around the world, but challenged his audience to protect the world’s youth from “unacceptable criminal violence or grave harm to the integrity of their body and spirit.” He called for a “global movement” marked by the “deepest commitment of the human family and international institutions to protecting the dignity of minors and every human person.”

In addition to the Pope’s remarks, the summit’s 80 participants were also addressed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the United Arab Emirates, H.H. Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed al Nahyan; H.M. Queen Silvia of Sweden; the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Professor Dr. Ahmed el-Tayeb; Rabbi David Rosen; Ms. Najat Maalla M’jid, representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, His All Holiness Bartholomew I, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, and also executives from across the tech industry representing giants like Microsoft.

"The child who has suffered abuse. The child who is at risk. The child who was robbed of its childhood, and instead carries guilt and shame,” said Queen Silvia of Sweden during her opening remarks. It is for this child, ladies and gentlemen, that we are here today.”

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A Note from Jennifer Gross

chrissy@northeastkingdomonline.com (Blog Owner) — Fri, 15 May 2020 22:22:34 GMT

I sincerely hope this note finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. I want to thank you for taking the time, in the midst of so many global events and disruptions, to visit this site and to take a look at what the Blue Chip Foundation has been working on.

The last few months have shown us, above all, just how fragile the systems we rely on as communities can be. But it has also shown us the deep resiliency that people from every part of every community bring to moments of crisis. I know I am not alone in being both humbled and inspired by the millions of people making a difficult moment easier for their loved ones, their neighbors, their fellow citizens.

The scale of the world’s needs at this moment - and the degree to which they are evolving and growing week by week - has upended the philanthropic world’s established strategies and ideas about how to optimize its resources and contribute meaningfully. There is no longer any such thing as ‘business as usual’, and it would be irresponsible not to reevaluate our giving strategies and assumptions. My husband and I are no exception. To date, we have focused a significant amount of the Blue Chip Foundation’s work outside the US, yet we find ourselves increasingly drawn to doing more to help battle the destructive impacts of the coronavirus at home in the U.S.

Yes, the world will look different in the post-COVID era as we take stock of the country’s shared hardship and losses. How will we move forward? Now is the moment to be thinking about that and to make plans for how to rise up and rebuild our communities and systems in a way that is more just and more sustainable than before. Blue Chip will take part in that process, and we hope to engage with the broader giving community to learn from their ideas and share our own in a way that champions transparency, collaboration, and big sky ambitions as we do.

Before we can rebuild, we first have to beat the ongoing COVID crisis. To that end, I’d like to share with you some of the work that we have done via the William, Jeff and Co-Founder Jennifer Gross Family Foundation, in partnership with the Blue Chip Foundation, which I lead with my husband Peter, to help support the extraordinary efforts of those on the frontline.

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2020 World Happiness Report

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 20:05:47 GMT

At this moment of pandemic, health and well-being are naturally a global priority for us all as we prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. The coronavirus unquestionably threatens to undermine two key drivers of our well-being: health and income. Yet, the research published today in the 2020 World Happiness Report , a partner of the Blue Chip Foundation and William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation, reminds us that disaster-resilient communities require more than good health and income - they need high levels of equality, trust, and inter-personal support, too.

How can the donor community support this? As one first step, our family is making emergency donations to organizations that support our most vulnerable populations by investing in their urgent, increased and sustained well-being. Among these are the National Domestic Workers Alliance Coronavirus Care Fund , which supports marginalized workers that take care of our homes and families, and World Central Kitchen’s COVID-19 Response , which supports meal delivery services for families in need.

We believe that integrating the science of well-being into our philanthropy to support all aspects of human well-being will strengthen our impact, our communities, and, ultimately, our global ability to rebound stronger from the coronavirus’ devastation than we began it.

Our team at the Blue Chip Foundation sends good wishes to you and your loved ones for your safety and well-being.

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Potential of Corporations & Foundations together at Vatican Conference

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 22:16:49 GMT

Instead of pitting everyday citizens against billionaires and corporations, she urges unity and cohesion.

CASINA PIO IV, VATICAN CITY, Nov. 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Jennifer Gross, co-founder of Blue Chip Foundation, spoke at a Vatican conference in early November to highlight the tremendous potential that large corporations and foundations have as forces for good. The Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences invited Gross to speak at The Science and Ethics for Happiness and Well-Being conference at Casina Pio IV, Vatican City, as it has done several times in the past, due to her extensive experience in philanthropic work.

Gross believes that corporations, foundations and the wealthy can work together to help create a level playing field for everyone. Her foundation addresses the root causes of global poverty and works toward the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Gross herself attends regular conferences at the Vatican, and she plays a vital role in the Ethics in Action Committee. Blue Chip Foundation recently partnered with Sir Paul McCartney and Emma Stone in the "Who Cares? I Do" anti-bullying campaign and founded " Get on the Bus! " in partnership with Generation Human Rights , a traveling education exhibit designed to help high-schoolers connect global issues to local issues.

Gross's father, Billionaire Bill Gross – a U.S. Navy veteran, investor, fund manager, co-founder of Pimco, and philanthropist – heads the William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation. The foundation made grants totaling nearly $20 million in 2019, benefiting recipients that include Doctors Without Borders, the New York Times Neediest Cases Fund, Action Against Hunger, the CHOC Foundation, and the Wilcox Health Foundation.

"Both [Bill and Jennifer] are extraordinarily generous and caring individuals," said Dr. Jeff Sachs, professor and Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University. Dr. Sachs co-hosted the Vatican conference. "Jennifer spoke with great humility, love for her father and commitment to the purpose of the discussion, which is to find ethical solutions for a world that is being destabilized by extreme deprivation, unprecedented inequalities and dire environmental devastation."

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The Seventh World Happiness Report, Released 2019 - A Landmark Survey

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 19:04:18 GMT

This is the 7th World Happiness Report.

The World Happiness Report is a landmark survey of the state of global happiness that ranks 156 countries by how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be. This year’s World Happiness Report focuses on happiness and the community: how happiness has evolved over the past dozen years, with a focus on the technologies, social norms, conflicts and government policies that have driven those changes.

This is the 7th World Happiness Report . The first was released in April 2012 in support of a UN High level meeting on “Wellbeing and Happiness: Defining a New Economic Paradigm”. That report presented the available global data on national happiness and reviewed related evidence from the emerging science of happiness, showing that the quality of people’s lives can be coherently, reliably, and validly assessed by a variety of subjective well-being measures, collectively referred to then and in subsequent reports as “happiness.” Each report includes updated evaluations and a range of commissioned chapters on special topics digging deeper into the science of well-being, and on happiness in specific countries and regions. Often there is a central theme. This year we focus on happiness and community: how happiness has been changing over the past dozen years, and how information technology, governance and social norms influence communities.

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Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

June 3rd & June 4th 2019

The Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine

Blue Chip Foundation co-founders Jennifer Gross and Peter Stengaard traveled to Casina Pío IV to provide support and participate in the Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine June 3 and June 4, 2019. The summit was organized by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, now headed by Professor Stefano Zamagni, and held at the Vatican.

The Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine is the second of its kind – the first was held during June 2018 in Buenos Aires.

The summit, which involved more than 100 magistrates from Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, Chile and several other Pan-American countries, addressed the need to defend and protect humans’ social rights throughout the world.
Gross began the event with a speech addressing and thanking the judges for attending, as well as outlining the purpose of the conference.

“Together we can create best practices to alleviate poverty, end hunger, provide health care for all, ensure quality and free education including university level education for all,” Gross said. “We must ultimately aim to ensure equal pay for all within a workforce that respects equality of race, culture, sexuality and gender. Only then can we have a productive economy and a workforce filled with individuals fulfilling their dreams and realizing their potential.”

Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine Rome Statement

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Who Cares - The Anti-Bullying Campaign

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Blue Chip Foundation , with the invaluable help of Sir Paul McCartney, Academy Award-winning actor Emma Stone, and a handful of other nonprofits is thrilled to be part of a nationwide anti-bullying social media campaign called “ Who Cares? I Do. ” The Who Cares? I Do campaign kicked off with McCartney and Stone’s delightfully positive, affirming musical short that inspires youth to stand up against bullying and negativity.

#WhoCaresIDo is backed by Blue Chip Foundation, Creative Visions , Artemis Rising Foundation and other organizations whose missions are to effect positive social change. Facebook and Instagram, Kodak and Capitol Records are also part of the campaign.

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Blue Chip Foundation: Ethics in Action and Indigenous Peoples

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City — Blue Chip Foundation , represented by founder Jennifer Gross , participated in the June 2018 Ethics in Action meeting to address the Sustainable Development Goals and call for solidarity with indigenous peoples across the world.

“The economic exclusion of indigenous peoples has to end if we are going to achieve the sustainable development goals,” says Gross. “There are approximately 370 million indigenous peoples worldwide, in over 90 countries. Indigenous peoples occupy 25 percent of the world’s surface area, and within that quarter lies 80 percent of the world’s remaining biodiversity. They are the custodians and ultimately responsible for the success of SDG 15. They hold vital ancestral knowledge and expertise on how to adapt, mitigate, and reduce climate and disaster risks. We need to listen to them and empower them to act on not only the land’s behalf, but on behalf of future generations.”

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Summit of African Women: Human Trafficking and Organized Crime

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Vatican City —A two-day Summit of African Women Judges and Prosecutors on Human Trafficking and Organized Crime, hosted by The Pontifical Academy of Sciences at the Vatican, brought nearly 50 women together to identify and address the causes and effects of these crimes against humanity. Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross sponsored the event to help further the Sustainable Development Goals – including SDG 8.7, which directly involves efforts to end human trafficking and modern slavery.

Africa holds vast numbers of human trafficking victims, and women judges from across the continent shared their own countries’ stories, citing real-world examples and zeroing in on locally specific issues. These judges are at the forefront of the fight against trafficking, and they see cases that most people struggle to comprehend.

A staggering 14 million people are involuntarily trafficked for labor – and half of them are trafficked into construction, manufacturing and the mining industry. Overall, about 9.5 million men and boys and 4 million women and girls are being pressed into involuntary servitude, sex work and slavery right now.

“What are the causes of trafficking? Poverty is the main cause. Many of these children are orphans that have very little education. The children earn very little money,” said Beninese Justice of the Court of First Instance of Allada, Aubierge Olivia Lucette Hungbo-Kploca.
Some parents willingly put their children into a network of human trafficking – not just in Benin, but elsewhere – for financial compensation. Benin created a network to target human trafficking, says Magistrate Judge Ayaba Claire Houngan Ayemonna, who quickly discovered that there were both national and international rings trafficking children in particular.

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Ethics in Action Online Course

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Ethics in Action Online Course Launching in September 2019

Ethics in Action Online Course , in partnership with Blue Chip Foundation , is creating a text and a Massive Open Online Course, or MOOC, as part of the SDG Academy program on sustainable development. The Ethics in Action course, built around the ethics of sustainable development as they relate to the world’s major faiths and virtue ethics traditions, is currently under development and will be released to the public via EdX in September 2019.
Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross is contributing a chapter in the text and covering community-based poverty reduction. Gross, who has extensive experience with the Millennium Villages Project – an interdisciplinary research project out of sub-Saharan Africa – discusses humanizing others and the ways the global market economy leaves behind those living in extreme poverty.

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Get on the Bus! Traveling Education Exhibit

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 17:50:52 GMT

New York—Blue Chip Foundation , in partnership with Generation Human Rights, The VII Foundation , and United Photo Industries has launched Get on the Bus!, a traveling education exhibit powered by the lessons learned from the Millennium Villages Project (MVP).

The bus, converted into a traveling exhibition, journeys from school to school across the country, helping high-schoolers connect global issues to local issues and encouraging solution-based thinking. The interactive classroom program requires students to complete one educational module before the bus arrives; sign-up, which is free for educators, includes a complete lesson plan designed to immerse students in the concept of extreme poverty and how it affects communities – both locally and globally.

Designed to engage students through creative learning, the curriculum encourages visual thinking strategies, evidence-based discussions, mapping activities, and storytelling activities, as well as narrative and expository writing.

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Paul McCartney, Emma Stone Take Aim at Bullying With ‘Who Cares’ Short

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 15:15:46 GMT

December 17, 2018

In support of Paul McCartney's new anti-bullying song " Who Cares ," Creative Visions Foundation , Artemis Rising , and Blue Chip Foundation have partnered with L.A.-based production company Subtractive to produce a short film and social media campaign, " #WhoCaresIDo ," starring Sir Paul McCartney and actress Emma Stone. The video and social campaign will support and coincide with McCartney's release of "Who Cares" which will be exclusively available on Apple Music for 24 hours. By leading this project, Kathy Eldon, CEO of Creative Visions , hopes to inspire greater consciousness and caring in 2019.

Read Full Article: https://variety.com/2018/music/news/paul-mccartney-emma-stone-who-cares-short-film-1203091065/

Modern Slavery

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

March 13, 2018

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City —Ethics in Action convened at Casina Pio IV in Vatican City to discuss parts of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals , or SDGs , which call for equal access to justice for all and the end of crimes against humanity. Most notable were talks on the global sex trade, modern slavery, human rights abuses on the Katanga Cobalt Supply Chain, and human and organ trafficking.

The Global Sex Trade and Human Trafficking
“The global sex slavery market generates $32 billion in profits each year. In my own country, in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, the sex trade generates over $300 million a year, which is more revenue than the illegal drug and gun trade combined in the same city,” said Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross . “That figure is even more staggering when you learn that the average human is sold into slavery for less than $100, and 20 percent of the victims are sold by their own family due to poverty.”

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Women From Millennium Villages Project Becoming Businesswomen

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

March 8, 2018

Rwanda—Recent secondary school graduates from Rwanda – young businesswomen who were part of the Millennium Villages Project ( MVP ) – are opening businesses through the Connect To Learn Initiative. Connect To Learn, supported by the The William, Jeff, and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation and Blue Chip Foundation , first launched its secondary school scholarship program in 2012 to assist 40 students with the financial costs associated with six years of secondary school.

Rwanda’s limited opportunities for women threatened to hold back the graduates, whose studies concluded in December 2017. Because the transition from secondary school into the workforce is a difficult one, particularly for young women, Connect To Learn launched another initiative – one that trains women in practical applications such as financial planning and budgeting, business planning, marketing, photography and traditional basket-weaving.

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UN chief reform ‘put Member States in driver’s seat’

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

UN Chief Secretary-General Antonio Guterres shared seven reform proposals for countries to meet the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ) and the Paris Climate Agreement. Included with the proposals, the Secretary-General also highlighted a request to increase agency resources and pooled funds. A Resident Coordinator system that is responsible for leading sustainable development activities throughout Member states requires additional funding to achieve basic staffing capacities. Aligned with each of the seven proposals, Mr. Guterres reiterated the theme of commitment that is necessary for achieving sustainable development .

Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 17:33:52 GMT

The Sustainable Development Solutions Network ( SDSN ) is a global initiative launched by the United Nations in 2012 to promote practical solutions for sustainable development. Here are some key aspects of SDSN:

Objectives and Mission

The primary goal of Sustainable Development Solutions Network ( SDSN ) is to accelerate progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ) and implementing the Paris Climate Agreement. The network aims to mobilize global knowledge and resources to address interconnected sustainable development challenges.

Stakeholders and Collaboration

Providing support and guidance to a diverse range of stakeholders including:

Research Institutions and Universities: Engaging academic communities in sustainable development research and education
Technical Organizations: Collaborating on innovative solutions and technological advancements
United Nations Agencies: Working closely with various UN bodies to align efforts with global goals
Financial Institutions: Partnering with banks and investment firms to fund sustainable projects
Public and Private Sector Organizations: Encouraging businesses and governments to adopt sustainable practices.
Individuals and Experts: Leveraging the expertise of professionals and thought leaders in sustainable development.

Leadership and Governance

The network is overseen by Jeffrey D. Sachs, a senior UN advisor and Professor of Economics. Under his leadership, SDSN promotes global educational initiatives and research partnerships to develop long-term strategies for sustainable development.

Key Initiatives and Projects

SDSN supports several high-impact initiatives, including:

The World Happiness Report: An annual publication that ranks countries based on happiness and well-being indicators.
Deep Decarbonization Pathways Project: A project focused on developing strategies for reducing carbon emissions to meet climate targets.
SDG Academy: An online education platform offering courses on sustainable development topics.

Blue Chip Foundation's Role

The Blue Chip Foundation played a significant role in the initial discussions and drafting of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), evolving from the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Agenda. Jennifer Gross, a member of SDSN's leadership council, helps oversee the network's activities. The foundation supports various SDSN initiatives, contributing to the global effort to achieve sustainable development.

Impact and Reach

SDSN operates globally, with over 1,900 member institutions across 55 national and regional networks. These networks focus on local and regional priorities, ensuring that solutions are tailored to specific contexts and challenges.

By fostering collaboration and leveraging the strengths of its diverse stakeholders, SDSN aims to create a sustainable future for all.

World Wildlife Fund

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 20:37:05 GMT

For 50 years, World Wildlife Fund has been protecting the future of nature.

The world’s leading conservation organization, WWF works in 100 countries and is supported by more than one million members in the United States and close to five million globally. WWF's unique way of working combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global, and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.

Jennifer Gross traveled to photograph the gorillas in Rwanda and to meet pandas in Chengdu, China, within a single year. Having always been interested in conserving wildlife, these two moving experiences convinced her to throw Blue Chip’s resources into doing so by supporting the WWF. Since 2014, Blue Chip Foundation has contributed funds to the WWF to support all of their conservation efforts.

The World Wildlife Fund aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

2.1 By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular the poor and people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round

2.2 By 2030, end all forms of malnutrition, including achieving, by 2025, the internationally agreed targets on stunting and wasting in children under 5 years of age, and address the nutritional needs of adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women and older persons

2.3 By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers, in particular women, indigenous peoples, family farmers, pastoralists and fishers, including through secure and equal access to land, other productive resources and inputs, knowledge, financial services, markets and opportunities for value addition and non-farm employment

2.4 By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production, that help maintain ecosystems, that strengthen capacity for adaptation to climate change, extreme weather, drought, flooding and other disasters and that progressively improve land and soil quality

2.5 By 2020, maintain the genetic diversity of seeds, cultivated plants and farmed and domesticated animals and their related wild species, including through soundly managed and diversified seed and plant banks at the national, regional and international levels, and promote access to and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge, as internationally agreed

2.a Increase investment, including through enhanced international cooperation, in rural infrastructure, agricultural research and extension services, technology development and plant and livestock gene banks in order to enhance agricultural productive capacity in developing countries, in particular least developed countries

2.b Correct and prevent trade restrictions and distortions in world agricultural markets, including through the parallel elimination of all forms of agricultural export subsidies and all export measures with equivalent effect, in accordance with the mandate of the Doha Development Round

2.c Adopt measures to ensure the proper functioning of food commodity markets and their derivatives and facilitate timely access to market information, including on food reserves, in order to help limit extreme food price volatility

6.1 By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all

6.2 By 2030, achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations

6.3 By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally

6.4 By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity and substantially reduce the number of people suffering from water scarcity

6.5 By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate

6.6 By 2020, protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes

6.a By 2030, expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programmes, including water harvesting, desalination, water efficiency, wastewater treatment, recycling and reuse technologies

6.b Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management

13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries

13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning

13.a Implement the commitment undertaken by developed-country parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to a goal of mobilizing jointly $100 billion annually by 2020 from all sources to address the needs of developing countries in the context of meaningful mitigation actions and transparency on implementation and fully operationalize the Green Climate Fund through its capitalization as soon as possible

13.b Promote mechanisms for raising capacity for effective climate change-related planning and management in least developed countries and small island developing States, including focusing on women, youth and local and marginalized communities

14.1 By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution

14.2 By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans

14.3 Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels

14.4 By 2020, effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices and implement science-based management plans, in order to restore fish stocks in the shortest time feasible, at least to levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield as determined by their biological characteristics

14.5 By 2020, conserve at least 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, consistent with national and international law and based on the best available scientific information

14.6 By 2020, prohibit certain forms of fisheries subsidies which contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and refrain from introducing new such subsidies, recognizing that appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing and least developed countries should be an integral part of the World Trade Organization fisheries subsidies negotiationc

14.7 By 2030, increase the economic benefits to small island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism

14.a Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries

14.b Provide access for small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets

14.c Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources, as recalled in paragraph 158 of “The future we want”

15.1 By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements

15.2 By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally

15.3 By 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, including land affected by desertification, drought and floods, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world

15.4 By 2030, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, in order to enhance their capacity to provide benefits that are essential for sustainable development

15.5 Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity and, by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species

15.6 Promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources, as internationally agreed

15.7 Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products

15.8 By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species

15.9 By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies and accounts

15.a Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems

15.b Mobilize significant resources from all sources and at all levels to finance sustainable forest management and provide adequate incentives to developing countries to advance such management, including for conservation and reforestation

15.c Enhance global support for efforts to combat poaching and trafficking of protected species, including by increasing the capacity of local communities to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities

World Childhood Foundation

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 20:25:33 GMT

All children have a right to a childhood, to safety, happiness, playfulness, and curiosity in life.

World Childhood Foundation works to prevent abuse and exploitation of children. They support and implement over 100 projects around the world, assisting children who are at risk of or are victims of abuse, children who are in alternative care, street children, and families at risk.

Childhood’s work is based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), and is politically and religiously unaffiliated. The goal of Childhood is that no child should be exposed to a violent or damaging environment, but instead have the opportunity to grow up with memories of a safe and loving childhood.

When Jennifer Gross met Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden, founder of the World Childhood Foundation, in New York City, she decided that Blue Chip Foundation needed to partner with Childhood USA on the path to expand its reach, increase its impact, and become a recognized leader in the mission to end child abuse and exploitation by 2030. Since then, Jennifer has traveled across Sub-Saharan Africa with Dr. Joanna Rubinstein, President and CEO of Childhood USA, and has attended a number of international events in partnership with WCF, including:

A meeting at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences at the Vatican on climate change and trafficking

A roundtable at Columbia University on “The Role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in Child Protection,” featuring experts from academia, the UN, civil society, the private sector and the Childhood-funded projects

A high-level meeting at the UN called “Children and the Sustainable Development Goals: Giving Every Child a Chance.”

Blue Chip’s ongoing financial support of the WCF contributes to its mission to safeguard and promote the safety and well-being of children everywhere.

The World Childhood Foundation’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs):

5.2 Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation

5.3 Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation

8.7 Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including recruitment and use of child soldiers, and by 2025 end child labour in all its forms

16.1 Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere

16.2 End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children

The Humane Society

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 20:01:42 GMT

The nation’s most effective animal protection organization.

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest and most effective animal protection organization.

They provide hands-on care and services to more than 100,000 animals each year, and they professionalize the field through education and training for local organizations. The Humane Society is the leading animal advocacy organization, seeking a humane world for people and animals alike. They are driving transformational change in the U.S. and around the world by combating large-scale cruelties such as puppy mills, animal fighting, factory farming, seal slaughter, horse cruelty, captive hunts and the wildlife trade.

Jennifer Gross has always been an animal lover, valuing life on land and below water. Diane Warren, a good friend of Jenn’s who is an animal rights activist and donor to a number of animal rights charities, invited Jenn and her husband to a gala for the Humane Society in 2016, and they were so moved that they pledged Blue Chip’s support . Blue Chip’s support, like many donations the Humane Society receives, goes to protecting animals suffering in factory farms, research labs, puppy mills and other situations of cruelty and neglect.

The Human Society’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

14.4 By 2020, effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices and implement science-based management plans, in order to restore fish stocks in the shortest time feasible, at least to levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield as determined by their biological characteristics

14.6 By 2020, prohibit certain forms of fisheries subsidies which contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and refrain from introducing new such subsidies, recognizing that appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing and least developed countries should be an integral part of the World Trade Organization fisheries subsidies negotiation

15.7 Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products

15.c Enhance global support for efforts to combat poaching and trafficking of protected species, including by increasing the capacity of local communities to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities

Stray Cat Alliance

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:54:49 GMT

Building a No Kill Nation, One Stray Cat at a Time with the Stray Cat Alliance.

Stray Cat Alliance educates and empowers the community to advocate for every cat’s right to be safe, healthy and valued. They envision a time when all cats are cared for, all kittens and domesticated cats are in loving homes, and there is a healthy but declining sterilized feral cat population. The feral cat colonies that do remain are monitored, fed, and treated medically when needed by their caregivers.

A lifelong cat lover, Jennifer Gross was moved to put Blue Chip’s support behind the Stray Cat Alliance after attending a gala on their behalf with songwriter Diane Warren in 2014. At this event, the stories shared about the organization and their work impressed upon Jennifer that this organization’s efforts are making a valuable difference at the community level. Stray Cat Alliance’s commitment to no-kill solutions for stray and feral cats is in harmony with Blue Chip’s belief that a holistic approach to an elevated society, inclusive of caring for animals and the earth, will be the rising tide that lifts all boats, organically contributing to the alleviation of global poverty.

Stray Cat Alliance aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

2.5 By 2020, maintain the genetic diversity of seeds, cultivated plants and farmed and domesticated animals and their related wild species, including through soundly managed and diversified seed and plant banks at the national, regional and international levels, and promote access to and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge, as internationally agreed

Special Olympics

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:49:51 GMT

Special Olympics transforms lives through the joy of sport, every day, everywhere.

Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities: with more than 4.7 million athletes in 169 countries -- and over a million volunteers.

Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success. Their athletes find joy, confidence and fulfillment -- on the playing field and in life. They also inspire people in their communities and elsewhere to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential.

Jennifer Gross’s first volunteer experience at age 16 was coaching a soccer team of intellectually disabled children. Inspired, in part, by that experience, she translated her deep love for gymnastics into volunteering as a gymnastics judge for Special Olympics in 2011.

Jenn cites one experience in particular as a highlight of her judging days: One of the gymnasts she had judged designed the logo for the 2014 World Special Olympics held in Los Angeles. The young woman was so proud to show Jenn the work that she had done.

Blue Chip Foundation began supporting Special Olympics and their mission in 2013.

Special Olympics’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status

Mercy Ships

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:37:54 GMT

Brining hope and healing to the world’s poor for over 38 years.

Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class healthcare services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world. Founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships has worked in more than 70 countries providing services valued at more than $1 billion, impacting more than 2.42 million direct beneficiaries. Each year Mercy Ships has more than 1,600 volunteers from more than 45 nations. Professionals including surgeons, dentists, nurses, healthcare trainers, teachers, cooks, seamen, engineers, and agriculturalists donate their time and skills to the effort. Mercy Ships seeks to transform individuals and serve nations one at a time.

In 2014, Jennifer Gross went on a weeklong “vision quest” with Mercy Ships, spending time on their ship and observing a surgery on a woman who was missing some of her jawbone. In the evenings, women on the ship would sing through the halls. Being surrounded by medical professionals who were offering their expertise and services in this setting, while contributing to the cost of their being there, was incredibly inspiring.

Charity: water founder Scott Harrison spent time as a documentary photographer with Mercy Ships, and his experiences contributed to Jenn’s interest in the organization. The combination of his influence, the time aboard ship and a night with Mercy Ships’ founders, the Stephenses, at their headquarters in Texas, piqued her interest in becoming involved. When the Gross Family Foundation contributed the funds for a new ship in 2017, Jennifer brought the Blue Chip Foundation in as well.

Together with other generous donors, their contributions will help this organization continue to meet the needs of African communities that are underserved medically.

Mercy Ships’ work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

Goal 3. Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

3.1 By 2030, reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births

3.2 By 2030, end preventable deaths of newborns and children under 5 years of age, with all countries aiming to reduce neonatal mortality to at least as low as 12 per 1,000 live births and underJ5 mortality to at least as low as 25 per 1,000 live births

3.3 By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases

3.4 By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being

3.5 Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

3.6 By 2020, halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents

3.7 By 2030, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including for family planning, information and education, and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programmes

3.8 Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all

3.9 By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination

3.a Strengthen the implementation of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in all countries, as appropriate

3.b Support the research and development of vaccines and medicines for the communicable and non-communicable diseases that primarily affect developing countries, provide access to affordable essential medicines and vaccines, in accordance with the Doha Declaration on the TRIPS Agreement and Public Health, which affirms the right of developing countries to use to the full the provisions in the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights regarding flexibilities to protect public health, and, in particular, provide access to medicines for all

3.c Substantially increase health financing and the recruitment, development, training and retention of the health workforce in developing countries, especially in least developed countries and small island developing States

3.d Strengthen the capacity of all countries, in particular developing countries, for early warning, risk reduction and management of national and global health risks

Mercy for Animals

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:31:58 GMT

Inspiring Compassion. Ending Cruelty.

Mercy For Animals is dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices and policies.

Imagine a world free of cruelty, a world in which we nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits with wholesome, healthy food that is kind to animals and sustainable for our planet. MFA believes that world is possible. In fact, it is inevitable if we work together to elevate humanity to its fullest potential.

When Jennifer Gross and her husband attended a Mercy for Animals Gala with songwriter Diane Warren in 2014, they were awed by the spontaneous acts of generosity around them. Having been involved with the financial support of non-profit and charitable organizations for some time, Jenn had never seen anything like the sea of waving hands outstretched, ready to write checks to this organization dedicated to safeguarding our food and environment by ensuring sustainable and humane farming.

MFA’s undercover documentary work provides both legal evidence of wrongdoing and content that compels action. Their mission, methods and enthusiastic army of supporters inspired Jenn to add Blue Chip Foundation to the ranks of MFA’s partners.

Mercy for Animals’ work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

2.3 By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of smallJscale food producers, in particular women, indigenous peoples, family farmers, pastoralists and fishers, including through secure and equal access to land, other productive resources and inputs, knowledge, financial services, markets and opportunities for value addition and nonJfarm employment

2.4 By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production, that help maintain ecosystems, that strengthen capacity for adaptation to climate change, extreme weather, drought, flooding and other disasters and that progressively improve land and soil quality

2.a Increase investment, including through enhanced international cooperation, in rural infrastructure, agricultural research and extension services, technology development and plant and livestock gene banks in order to enhance agricultural productive capacity in developing countries, in particular least developed countries

12.2 By 2030, achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources

12.3 By 2030, halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains, including postJharvest losses

12.4 By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment

12.6 Encourage companies, especially large and transnational companies, to adopt sustainable practices and to integrate sustainability information into their reporting cycle

12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities

12.8 By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature

15.7 Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products

Heroes Project

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:21:04 GMT

The Heroes Project makes the impossible a reality by empowering injured war veterans through physical and emotional training, allowing them to explore the farthest reaches of themselves and the world they live in. These expeditions challenge the severely wounded to redefine their personal limits post injury. The Heroes Project inspires our injured military veterans to find purpose, both physically and mentally, and ignites others to do the same.

EXPEDITIONS FOR HEROES

The Heroes Project creates training and expedition programs for wounded marines, soldiers and veterans. Through these therapeutic, challenging and transformative experiences, THP is able to truly change lives. The physical experience of conquering these challenges is only part of the process. The mental preparation for these treks is equally as valuable. The Heroes Project has put our injured war veterans on some of the highest summits of the world conquering every challenge we set. Our philosophy of devoting our resources to one veteran at time has a proven ripple effect, impacting lives in a greater and more prophetic way.

HOPE FOR HEROES

The Heroes Project aims to encourage and expand the community that supports our nation’s heroes. We have developed an extensive network of core support by connecting our donors, supporters and veterans. The Heroes Project also promotes and augments the efforts of other organizations working within this community across the country thereby strengthening impact.

VOICES FOR HEROES

On each expedition, The Heroes Project captures footage of our heroes’ journeys to recovery. These stories of strength, resilience, and the ability to triumph over the impossible will be used as part of our outreach and empowerment programs to inspire the masses, whether veteran or civilian. The Heroes Project has been highlighted in the media countless times for its success stories and focused education on veteran’s rehabilitation, enabling our heroes to speak directly to the community.

Heroes Project work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

3.4 By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being

3.5 Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

8.5 By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value

10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status

CURA

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:14:59 GMT

CURA Orphanage where hope has a place to grow.

Cura Orphanage is a residence for children who have lost their parents to AIDS. Their home is located in the village of Cura, in Kenya, Africa. Fifty children currently live there. Cura Orphanage is committed to providing a loving home for children, where they find safety, health and a new family. Cura’s children attend the local pre- and primary schools, and Cura strives to be an integral part of their local village. Cura is a place where hope has a place to grow.

Cura Orphanage was a Civic Action Project project for Creative Visions , media producers who inspire solutions to global challenges with their work. What began as one visit to Cura Orphanage with Creative Visions’ International Program Manager, Hayden Bixby , evolved for Jennifer Gross into a series of visits to the orphanage over the next four consecutive years.

Seeing the kids she met growing into their teenage years, and being there when their secondary school was built and they first started attending classes, moved Jennifer. She feels that because she had the privilege to go to university, Blue Chip should give others the opportunity as well. The educational future of the Cura orphans, with no parents and no support system when they graduated from secondary school, was a legitimate worry for Jennifer, as only 2% of Kenyans attend university.

Blue Chip’s financial support provides Cura’s kids an incentive to try to achieve the goal of a university education, or to follow the alternative path of vocational training. It also supports a paid position for a guidance counselor on Cura’s staff. Jennifer is currently a member of Cura Orphanage’s advisory committee.

Cura Orphanage’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

4.1 By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes

4.2 By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education

4.3 By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university

4.4 By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship

4.5 By 2030, eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and children in vulnerable situations

4.6 By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy

4.A Build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability and gender sensitive and provide safe, non-violent, inclusive and effective learning environments for all

4.B By 2020, substantially expand globally the number of scholarships available to developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing States and African countries, for enrollment in higher education, including vocational training and information and communications technology, technical, engineering and scientific programs, in developed countries and other developing countries

8.6 By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training

Connect to Learn

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:10:39 GMT

Educate a girl, change the world

Connect to Learn promotes access to secondary education for young children with a focus on girls that are exposed to HIV/AIDS, forced marriage, or violence. A joint partnership organized by the Earth Institute at Columbia University, Ericsson, and the Millennium Promise, Connect to Learn is a global initiative that supports 762 scholars in 10 African countries through a network of technology and nonprofit partners in the public and private sectors. Initially introduced in the Millennium Villages Project (MVP) , Connect to Learn is organized around a community-led framework that complements the interconnected challenges of the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ). The initiative provides financial assistance, communications technologies that support online learning, and educational resources to enhance economic opportunities to help lift families out of poverty.

ROCK YOUR WORLD

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:06:50 GMT

Inspiring students to change our world

Rock your world is an innovative, project-based middle/high school curriculum that inspires students to ask bold questions about the challenges they see in their neighborhoods, communities and the world around them and then engages them in the development of advocacy campaigns designed to overcome those challenges.

Starting with a basic understanding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the program introduces students to a variety of research techniques designed to help them become aware and informed about an issue of their choice. Next, students study tactics and techniques employed by successful campaigns and then create and pitch their own advocacy campaigns through a creative outlet of their choice: making films, writing persuasively or writing songs.

Flexible, free and fully aligned with Common Core State Standards, Rock Your World offers more than 70 lessons from which teachers can choose, depending on their instructional goals and students’ interests and needs. Sponsored by the Creative Visions’ Foundation and inspired by the remarkable life of young artist and photojournalist, Dan Eldon, Rock Your World is free and available for download.

Why Rock your World?

Jennifer Gross learned about Rock your World when she worked as a volunteer with Creative Visions founders, Kathy and Amy Eldon, mother and sister of Dan Eldon. Blue Chip’s contribution to Rock your World in 2011 proved to be a game-changer for the program, funding new curricula and upgrading a website that has nurtured the creative activist spirit in more than 700,000 students and 29,000 teachers working in 25,000 schools in 72 countries.

Blue Chip Foundation will continue to support the organization in 2018 by providing funding for a program director, creating a new film curriculum, and producing a new pop-up Exhibit which will travel around the nation and engage students to tell their own stories.

Rock Your World’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:

4.4 By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship

4.5 By 2030, eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and children in vulnerable situations

4.6 By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy

4.7 By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development

5.1 End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere

Charity: Water

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 19:02:44 GMT

Bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations

Charity: Water is dedicated to solving the water crisis by providing clean and safe water to individuals in developing countries. Founded in 2006 by Scott Harrison, Charity: Water funds the construction of new wells, provides maintenance to keep existing wells operational, and introduces innovative technologies to introduce water programs with a focus on rural communities without access to freshwater.

Beyond well installation, Charity: Water relies on technology to deploy other solutions for improving clean water access. Technological innovations such as rainwater catchments, gravity fed and water purification systems, bio-sand filters, natural spring protection systems, and latrines are now deployed in 24 countries around the world.

Charity: Water relies on science and engineering to assess the unique composition of water sources, determine the layout of local terrain, and factor in the size of the population that will utilize the well.

Charity: Water is developing educational initiatives for communities with newly installed wells to impart a sense of ownership and to ensure access to water is uninterrupted. These training resources ensure that local communities are prepared to manage these wells once Charity: Water is no longer on site.

The VII Foundation

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 18:48:47 GMT

The VII Foundation: Documentary Filmmaking for Social Impact

The Blue Chip Foundation collaborates with the VII Foundation , a leading non-profit organization, to create impactful media and educational initiatives that address pressing global issues. Through a focus on documentary filmmaking, social impact, and education, these organizations bring attention to critical topics like poverty, human rights, and environmental challenges.

Co-founded in 2001 by renowned photographers Ron Haviv and Gary Knight, the VII Foundation builds on its roots in photojournalism and documentary storytelling. It funds and produces original documentary projects, and innovative educational fellowship, and mentorship programs for aspiring creative artists committed to advancing social impact through storytelling.

Advancing Advocacy Through Documentary Work

The VII Foundation is dedicated to producing impactful media that sheds light on complex global issues. Its diverse portfolio includes photo essays, documentary films, e x hibitions, books, and educational programs designed to inspire a d vocacy and drive meaningful action . By addressing critical topics such as peace, war, health, and poverty, the foundation underscores the power of storytelling as a tool for change.

At the heart of these efforts is the VII Foundation's two-year fellowship program, which empowers emerging talents from underrepresented communities. The program prioritizes participants from diverse political, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in media representation. Fellows are paired with seasoned educators, filmmakers, and creative professionals who provide mentorship, helping participants refine their media production and storytelling skills while advancing their careers. Networking opportunities, collaborations, and exposure to leaders in the creative fields further enhance their professional growth.

Collaboration for Social Change

The Blue Chip Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting VII Foundation's mission. Together, we have undertaken groundbreaking projects, such as a series of five short films and a book created during the final year of the Millennium Villages Project (MVP). This collaboration also includes an exhibition of photographs showcased at the United Nations and other venues across the United States, bringing attention to the transformative power of media in addressing global challenges.

Beyond the MVP, the Blue Chip Foundation continues to support bold initiatives, including funding for VII Foundation's upcoming documentary project, The Peace Project . This highly anticipated work looks closely at global conflict resolution and peace-building efforts, further exemplifying the transformative impact of documentary filmmaking. Jennifer Gross, an esteemed advocate for social impact and education, serves on the VII Foundation's Board of Trustees, cementing the partnership between these two trailblazing organizations.

Inspiring a New Generation of Changemakers

Through their combined efforts, the Blue Chip Foundation and VII Foundation are not just telling stories—they are empowering a new generation of changemakers. By providing resources, mentorship, and platforms for diverse voices, these organization are leveraging the art of documentary filmmaking to create lasting social impact and promote solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges, including poverty.

SDG USA

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 17:06:41 GMT

Translating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into tools U.S. cities and candidates can use.

SDG USA su pports the successful implementation of America’s Goals for 2030 in the United States through the promotion of policy research and development, grassroots organizing, social entrepreneurship, and advocacy. America’s Goals for 2030 are aligned with the broader global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Blue Chip Foundation is developing a national consensus that includes educational outreach, partnerships, briefings, training initiatives, and workshops designed to provide technical solutions and expertise for achieving America’s Goals for 2030.

SDG USA operates as a politically inclusive organization supporting policy research and development to promote universal employment and healthcare, opportunities for youth, sustainable infrastructure, and a clean environment to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Currently, The U.S. is deficient in meeting at least one target included in each of the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs). SDG USA inspires citizens, businesses, the public and private sectors, policymakers, and politicians to look beyond economic and social divisions to solve economic, social, and environmental challenges.

LA Kitchen

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 16:55:43 GMT

L.A. Kitchen is a sustainable social enterprise organization dedicated to eradicating poverty through multiple initiatives including the operation of a training kitchen, reduction of food waste, and advancement of health and well being for low-income seniors within the Los Angeles community.

The kitchen provides recently released inmates and former foster care youth with apprenticeship opportunities in the culinary arts for eventual job placement.

Sourcing healthy fruits and vegetables that are either cosmetically imperfect or unsold from farmers markets or food wholesalers, L.A. Kitchen is able to reconstitute perfectly good food and reduce food waste.

Founded by Robert Egger, a social enterprise visionary and founder of DC Central Kitchen in Washington, L.A. Kitchen strengthens the community with multiple sustainable partnerships that facilitate the evolution of students into culinary professionals and reclaimed food into healthy and profitable dishes.

This virtuous cycle saves the state and taxpayers large amounts of money while producing healthier meals at a fraction of the cost for distribution to the hungry and indigent.

Blue Chip Foundation , one of the first donors to L.A. Kitchen, is committed to the ongoing support of Robert Egger’s holistic sustainable development frameworks.

Duke Global Health Institute

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 16:48:20 GMT

Academic excellence to meet the global health challenges of today and tomorrow to achieve health equity worldwide.

Duke Global Health Institute is committed to solving complex global health challenges that are related to economic, social, environmental, political and health care inequalities. Establishing an interconnected framework of interdisciplinary teams working to address health problems, Duke Global Health Institute (DGHI) accesses resources and knowledge throughout Duke University. Additionally, DGHI and Blue Chip Foundation provide research opportunities for undergraduate students interested in working to implement solutions to global health issues. The foundation has developed partnerships with the Governments of Ghana and Kenya to implement Blue Chip designed pilot projects that provide Columbia University and Duke University students and faculty access to these projects.

Student exposure to infrastructure research and sustainable development initiatives are essential for the training of future global health leaders. Blue Chip Foundation is committed to supporting other large-scale health initiatives such as the Two Million Community Health Workers Campaign (2mCHW), a joint initiative between the Millennium Promise Association and Columbia University. The Community Health Workers Campaign is a sustainable health initiative responsible for integrating a broad array of sustainable development goals. The 2 Million Community Health Workers initiative is a health services program that provides health care services and training to areas in the developing world with little or no access to healthcare professionals. It's a sustainable health model providing a "demographic dividend" that accelerates economic growth, improves health care access, and health outcomes.

Millennium Promise

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 15:45:27 GMT

Millennium Promise is the first and leading international nongovernmental organization dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization oversees the Millennium Villages Project (MVP) and other programs including the Sustainable Districts Program, Connect to Learn, the Lead Farmer Program, and the Two Million Community Health Workers (CHW) Campaign.

Co-founded by Jeffrey D. Sachs, UN senior advisor and Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University and Investor-Philanthropist Raymond Chambers in 2005, Millennium Promise is focused on eradicating poverty by addressing the interrelated challenges of hunger and malnutrition, gender inequalities, disease and access to health care, poor education, and inadequate infrastructure.

The Millennium Villages Project (MVP) , one of the initiatives of the Millennium Promise Association, is a rural development program that coordinates community-led and economically sustainable solutions to overcome the many interconnected causes of extreme poverty. The initiative is dedicated to accelerating the sustainable development targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that evolved from the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) Agenda.

MVP facilitates the deployment of science, technology, and communications solutions to deliver solutions for healthcare, education, agriculture, and small business development. The Millennium Villages Project exists across 80 villages in multiple countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Blue Chip Foundation supports the Millennium Villages Project through participation in joint health and education initiatives. Donating 5,000 phones to the 1 million Community Health Worker (CHW) Campaign, Blue Chip joins Columbia University and the Millennium Promise Association to improve access to streamlined health systems delivery and improved healthcare infrastructure. Blue Chip also provides dedicated scholarship funds for girls attending the Uranga Secondary School, a new female dormitory at the Uranga School, and scholarship funds for girls attending other schools in Ghana.

The Ocean Cleanup

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Over 5 trillion pieces of plastic currently litter the ocean.

Trash accumulates in 5 ocean garbage patches, the largest one being the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, located between Hawaii and California. If left to circulate, the plastic will impact our ecosystems, health and economies. The Ocean Cleanup develops advanced technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. A full-scale deployment of our systems is estimated to clean up 50 % of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in 5 years.

One of Jennifer Gross’s earliest goals as a donor was to help facilitate a solution to the growing problem of plastics in the ocean. At that time, the problem seemed almost unsolvable, and there were only a couple of organizations actively seeking a solution. Then, in 2012, Boyn Slat, a teenager from the Netherlands, proposed a solution in a TEDx talk that went viral. Within a year, The Ocean Cleanup had been founded around that idea.

When she learned of The Ocean Cleanup, Jenn knew she’d found the partner she’d been looking for. Boyn has the support of his government, and his comprehensive approach to reducing plastic waste in our oceans appears to be entirely plausible. As Jenn says, “He’s the smartest person, and it's the smartest solution.”

In 2017, Blue Chip Foundation joined the individuals and foundations helping fund the effort to get The Ocean Cleanup’s operational pilot cleanup system in the water, which will lead to more research into the problem and help them initiate the largest cleanup in history by 2020.

The Ocean Cleanup’s work aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals :

14.1 By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution

14.2 By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans

14.3 Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels

14.a Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries

Arctic forever changed by rapidly warming climate – UN weather agency

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Climate Action to Save the Arctic

Dramatic Climate Change Ravages the Ice

According to the UN Weather Agency, the Arctic region continued to warm at double the global rate in 2017, leading to the second warmest air temperatures, above-average ocean temperatures, and significant loss of sea ice. This ongoing warming trend is causing dramatic transformation in the Arctic, with far-reaching impacts on human and natural systems. The past three years have been among the warmest on record globally, with 2017 expected to be the warmest year without an El Niño event.

Key Points

Arctic Warming

The Arctic continued to warm at double the global rate in 2017.
This resulted in the second warmest air temperatures, above-average ocean temperatures, and significant loss of sea ice in the Arctic.
The warming trend in the Arctic is driving dramatic transformation in the region, with no signs of the Arctic returning to its reliably frozen state of decades ago, according to the Arctic Report Card.

Global Temperature Trends

According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the first 11 months of 2017 were the third warmest on record globally, behind 2016 and 2015.
The 2017 global land and ocean temperature is likely to end up among the three warmest years on record, despite the absence of an El Niño event.
The long-term trend of global warming since the late 1970s, and especially this century, is more important than the ranking of individual years.

Extreme Weather and Climate Change

Along with rising temperatures, the world is experiencing more extreme weather events with significant socioeconomic impacts.
Multiple extreme weather events in 2016, such as record global average temperature and extreme heat in Asia, would not have been possible without human-caused climate change.
This marks a fundamental change, as scientists now find that we are experiencing "new weather, because we've made a new climate."

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelo pment/blog/2017/12/arctic-forever-changed-rapidly-warming-climate...

‘Invest in the future’ green business key to fighting climate change

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

At the one planet summit in Paris, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated the need to advance investments in renewable energy and green business. He emphasized that renewable sources of energy are more affordable than traditional fossil fuels. Mr. Guterres outlined the need to boost investment in green business that promote the environment and create new opportunities for employment. He also reiterated that developed countries must provide support and resources to the developing world through instruments such as the Green Climate Fund .

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/invest-future-not-past-green-business-key-winn...

Digital safety for kids, increase online access to help disadvantaged

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Protecting children from emerging risks associated with a rapid increase in the advancement of digital technologies remains a strict priority according to the United Nations Children’s Fund ( UNIC EF) in a newly released report. Balancing the need for equal online access to information, preventing the most disadvantaged from being left behind, and promoting safe and healthy use of the Internet faces rising threats associated with the exploitation of children including trafficking, sexual abuse and the gap in understanding privacy concerns and general misuse parameters.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/make-digital-world-safer-children-increase-online-access-benefit-disadvantaged-unicef/

Conflicts, drought drive hunger – UN Agriculture Agency

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations agriculture agency released a new edition of the UN Agriculture Agency and UN Food Agency (FAO) Crop Prospects and Food Situation report on 37 countries exposed to various climate and regional crises. 29 of the impacted countries are located in Africa and will require supplemental food assistance from external sources to combat near-famine conditions resulting from climate change factors and regional conflicts preventing people in these countries from accessing food and undertaking otherwise productive activities.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/conflicts-drought-drive-hunger-despite-strong-global-food-supply-un-agriculture-agency/

Using fiscal stability to bolster inclusive development in AsiaPacific

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In a report released by the Economic and Social Survey for Asia and the Pacific, countries in that region must improve initiatives to enhance decent job opportunities and provide social protection benefits. Poverty eradication, fiscal stability, and social inclusivity results from reducing inequalities and promoting wider access to resources. Countries must take advantage of ongoing economic stability to achieve sustainable development through public investment and more expansive capital markets. Technology also plays a crucial role in achieving momentum for economic growth.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/use-fiscal-stability-bolster-inclusive-sustain...

UN designates 2021-2030 ‘Decade of Ocean Science’

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

More than three billion people on the planet rely on oceans for their livelihoods. According to the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), a new campaign focusing on improved science and research efforts from 2021-2030 will help promote the ‘Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development .’ Multiple stakeholders from a variety of general science, ocean science and technological backgrounds are required to advance data collection and analysis. Additionally, major financial support is essential to strengthen vulnerable small island states and developing countries.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/un-designates-2021-2030-decade-ocean-science/

China tops patent, trademark and design filings in 2016

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

China is ranked highest among nations in global innovation as the country’s demand for intellectual property rights underwent a nearly 100% rate of growth in 2016. Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the U.S. rank among the leading countries of the world that have the highest number of patent filings on a per-capita basis. China is also responsible for contributing to increased growth rates in global industrial design filings and trademark applications.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/china-tops-patent-trademark-design-filings-201...

Young students getting better at reading, finds international study

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Reading literacy rates have surpassed international benchmarks across the globe. An international study from UN Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reported that, “an early start in reading literacy has lasting benefits, with students who had attended pre-primary school for three years or more reporting higher average scores.” The progress is credited to home environments in which children are encouraged to participate in early literacy activities. The 2016 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PRILS) determined that proficient readers also possess digital literacy skills.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/young-students-getting-better-reading-finds-international-study/

Somalia Partnership Forum stresses job creation and poverty reduction

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Somalia’s future economic prosperity depends on greater investment in business development, infrastructure rehabilitation, and improved living conditions. Members of the international community, the Somali Government, and the United Nations attended the Somalia Partnership Forum to discuss the humanitarian and development challenges facing the country. Poverty, marginalization, armed violence, insecurity, political instability, and natural disasters threaten sustainable development in Somalia. They are looking to focus on creating jobs and poverty reduction.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/somalia-partnership-forum-stresses-job-creatio...

World AIDS Day: Consensus with right to health, mean defeated epidemic

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

World AIDS Day and the AIDS epidemic is an important reminder of the need to guarantee equal access to affordable health care services, hospital facilities and treatment options for people in all parts of the world. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a message reaffirming the 2030 target for ending the AIDS epidemic. Obstacles and setbacks are reversing past successes in parts of the world threatening to leave even greater numbers of people behind. Access to health services and education represents the mutually reinforcing strategy required for achieving effective sustainable development . Securing every individual’s right to health is the only way forward in the fight against the AIDS epidemic.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/12/world-aids-day-everyone-everywhere-realizes-right-health-epidemic-can-defeated-says-un/

From thorny to tasty: UN looking at cactus as climate resilient food

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has called for the prickly cactus to be upgraded to an essential crop. In many regions, this cactus resists drought and thrives in degraded soils and higher temperatures. Once thought of as an invasive species, prickly cactus provides much relied upon food and water to people in Madagascar exposed to extreme drought. The crop produces enough water to support five adult cows; in addition, when barley is grown with the cactus and eaten by cattle, it reduces methane production.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/thorny-tasty-un-agriculture-agency-looking-cac...

Men can't reach full potential unless women can, Eliminating Violence

Sat, 25 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The goal of ending violence against women and girls at The International Day for the Eliminating Violence against Women highlighted major UN and international community actions. These campaigns, including ‘Spotlight Initiative,’ grant programs such as ‘UNITE by 2030,’ and alignment with the #MeTooCampaign , affirm multi-stakeholder programs to end discrimination. The UN is also setting an example for the global community by launching a new zero-tolerance sexual harassment policy.

Read full article:

http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/no-man-will-reach-full-potential-unless-women-...

Access to clean & modern energy, poorer countries focus on innovation

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The world’s least developed countries require rapid deployment of modern energy with utility-scale renewable energy sources for power grid enhancement. Technological innovation is necessary for strengthening the energy capacity in an array of different environments. In a recent United Nations report on the world’s forty-seven Least Developed Countries (LDCs), only four of forty-seven nations are on course to reach agreed targets by 2030. Solar and wind power are promising sources of renewable energy for enhancing rural electrification. Presently, current renewable energy levels are insufficient for accomplishing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) .

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/access-clean-modern-energy-poorer-countries-look-power-ahead-innovation-un-report/

Lack of opportunities stalling young people’s quest for decent work

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report from the United Nations International Labor Organization ( ILO ) highlights the persistent challenges of youth unemployment and the lack of quality job opportunities, even as overall economic growth remains disconnected from employment generation. The report notes that young people are increasingly turning to the internet and new forms of employment like crowd work, but these come with risks such as low incomes and lack of job security. The ILO calls for greater investments in quality education and skills development, as well as policies that keep pace with the fast-changing world of work driven by technology, to enable young women and men to get ahead.

Overall economic growth remains disconnected from employment generation, resulting in persistent unemployment and a lack of quality job opportunities for young people. The number of unemployed youth is expected to rise by about 200,000 in 2018, reaching a total of 71.1 million. About 39% of young workers in emerging and developing economies are living in moderate or extreme poverty. Young women face significant labor force participation and unemployment rate gaps compared to young men.

Young jobseekers and entrepreneurs are turning to the internet and new forms of employment like crowd work, which offer flexibility but also come with risks like low incomes, lack of job security, and limited access to benefits. Young people are more likely to transition to stable and satisfactory employment in developed and emerging economies than in developing countries.

Greater investments are needed in quality education and skills development to enable young people to thrive in the fast-changing world of work. Policies must keep pace with the technological changes driving the evolving world of work to help young women and men stay ahead of the curve.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/lack-quality-opportunities-stalling-young-peop...

All countries should benefit from fast-moving ICT revolution, urges UN

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report from the UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU) underscores the transformative potential of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve billions of lives. It highlights the revolutionary advances in technology, such as the Internet of Things, big data, cloud computing, and AI, which have the power to significantly contribute to sustainable development and make the world a better place. However, the report also warns about the persistent digital divide that leaves many people, especially in poorer countries, at risk of being left behind. This divide remains a significant challenge that needs to be addressed to ensure equitable access to the benefits of these emerging technologies.

Despite overall progress, the digital divide continues to be a major issue. Least developed countries lag behind on key indicators that influence their position in the digital economy, such as having the lowest numbers of internet users. For instance, Mauritius, the best-performing African country, ranked 75th on the ICT Development Index with a score of 5.88. This disparity highlights the need for targeted efforts to bridge the gap and ensure that all countries can benefit from technological advancements.

To harness the benefits of ICTs, countries need to create the necessary conditions and infrastructure that allow next-generation networks and services to thrive. This includes adopting policies that foster innovation while mitigating risks to information security, privacy, and employment. The report emphasizes that these efforts are crucial for both developed and developing countries to fully leverage the potential of ICTs.

The ITU report is recognized as the most authoritative source of data and analysis on the state of global ICT development. It is extensively relied upon by governments, international organizations, development banks, and private sector analysts and investors worldwide. The insights provided in the report are essential for informing policy decisions and guiding investments in ICT infrastructure and services. By addressing the digital divide and creating supportive environments for technological innovation, countries can ensure that ICTs contribute to sustainable development and improve the lives of people around the world.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/countries-benefit-fast-moving-ict-revolution-u...

Science & technology can tackle key sustainable development challenges

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

On the anniversary of World Science Day for Peace and Development , the importance of integrated science is necessary for overcoming sustainable development challenges in support of oceans, climate change, and water management. Speaking at the event, Irina Bokova, Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ), outlined the United Nations cultural agency’s approach in assembling multidisciplinary networks to meet global sustainability goals. In addition to scientific cooperation, investment in science curriculum and increased enrollment is important for all persons, especially girls.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/science-and-technology-can-help-tackle-key-sustainable-development-challenges/

Agreement boosts cooperation between UN space affairs office and UAE

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency have solidified their commitment to peaceful space exploration through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement, effective as of Wednesday, lays the groundwork for enhanced collaboration in capacity-building, joint research, and regional cooperation in the field of space affairs.

Both organizations share a vision of harnessing space technology for the benefit of humanity. The MOU outlines a five-year partnership that will focus on developing capacity-building frameworks to address the technical and legal aspects of peaceful space exploration. Additionally, joint research projects will explore the economic and social benefits of space technology, fostering innovation and sustainable development.

The UAE and UNOOSA recognize the importance of regional cooperation in advancing space exploration and have committed to promoting collaboration among countries in the Middle East. This partnership will also prioritize STEM education, particularly for women and girls, to inspire future generations of space scientists and engineers.

A significant milestone in this collaboration is the support for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the first UN conference on space (UNISPACE+50). This event will provide a platform for countries to discuss the progress made in space exploration and set the course for future endeavors.

The MOU was signed during the High-Level Forum on Space as a Driver for Socio-Economic Sustainable Development, a joint initiative of UNOOSA and the UAE Space Agency. Representatives from approximately 50 countries attended the forum, underscoring the global interest in space exploration and its potential to contribute to sustainable development.

An interesting development at the forum was Thailand's proposal to host a regional office for UNOOSA. This move would further strengthen UNOOSA's presence in the region and facilitate collaboration among countries in Southeast Asia.

The partnership between UNOOSA and the UAE Space Agency marks a significant step forward in the peaceful exploration and utilization of outer space. By working together, these organizations can contribute to the advancement of science, technology, and international cooperation.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/agreement-boosts-cooperation-between-un-space-...

Violence against children pervasive in homes, schools and communities

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Children’s Fund ( UNICEF ) reported that children are facing extreme exposure to psychological aggression, physical punishment, sexual violence, and acts of homicide in their communities. Corporal punishment is still allowed in school environments exposing half the population to violence against children. UNICEF urges government intervention and national action plans to intervene on behalf of children exposed to violence. The report also calls for improved data reporting and evaluation.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/11/violence-against-children-pervasive-in-homes-schools-and-communities-unicef/

UN: Protect Medical Workers’ Rights - Healthcare is a Human Right

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Healthcare is a human right,

UN urges protection for medical workers

Governments are responsible for providing healthcare services and extending protection to dedicated medical workers fighting on behalf of delivering care to their fellow citizens in highly dangerous and conflict-prone areas of the world. During a recent interview, Kate Gilmore, the United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights , outlined the challenges associated with extending the basic human right of health to all people. The persistent threat of leaving behind the world’s most vulnerable population is prevalent in areas exposed to conflict where health facilities and health related infrastructure is a constant target for increased attacks. In non-conflict areas, prejudice and discrimination around pandemics such as leprosy and HIV/AIDS impede people’s access to treatment and vaccines to overcome these diseases.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/interview-health-care-is-a-human-right-senior-un-official-says-urges-protection-for-medical- workers /

Ethics in Action for Sustainable and Integral Development Statement on Education

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

October 25, 2017

Education is both a fundamental need and right of all children. Because so many children around the world lack even a basic education, the world community bears an urgent moral responsibility to ensure quality education for all children. We ardently support SDG 4, and underscore its insistence on education for all, including the poorest, the marginalized, girls as well as boys, the vulnerable, and those with special needs. More than half a century ago, the Church expressed its deep commitment to education for all in Gravissimum Educationis.[1] Today, Laudato Si’ devotes its Chapter 6 to educating for the covenant between humanity and the environment. Justice demands that new efforts be preferentially dedicated to those at the bottom of the income distribution so that even the poorest children have the opportunity to reach their full potential through quality education.

We also need a new kind of education to promote integral development and sustainable human development. As Pope Francis writes in Laudato Si’, “there needs to be a distinctive way of looking at things, a way of thinking, policies, an educational programme, a lifestyle and a spirituality which together generate resistance to the assault of the technocratic paradigm.”

For the low-income countries, where hundreds of millions of young people currently lack access to education, increased international funding for SDG 4 is a sine qua non. Since Africa lies at the center of the funding challenge, we will do our utmost to support African leaders’ plan to
establish a special Fund for African Secondary Education to help channel donor financing to African primary and secondary education, with full accountability in the use of these funds. To achieve quality education for all children, the incremental international funds needed are very
modest, roughly $40 billion per year, or 0.1% of the national income of the high-income countries. Yet even such modest flows can do much to ensure a more peaceful, harmonious and productive world. Such incremental flows are a tiny fraction of the annual incomes of the world's
2,000 billionaires and a tiny fraction of the world's annual outlays on armaments. Investing sufficiently in education may seem demanding, but the costs of ignorance are much higher. Domestically and internationally, peace is endangered by uneducated masses that are not integrated into the society. Incremental funding needs should be raised from governments, philanthropists, religious organizations, and businesses. We support an initiative to mobilize large-scale funding from the world’s high-net worth individuals and corporations, as well as
development financing through other means. We will seek support in China and in other newly leading countries in the world today.

In today’s world, we need new ways to teach and to train teachers:
· To engage the young brain.
· To inspire young students to be interested and open to learning.
· To build solidarity, ethical reflection, and moral skills, especially by enabling children to
teach children and live in harmony with one another.
· To foster global citizenship, cosmopolitan responsibility, and a culture of peace.
· To emphasize the goals of critical analysis and empathy to diminish the susceptibility of
youth to demagoguery, fake news, and demonization of the other.
· To use sport, the arts, music, and culture to inspire the young mind;
· To utilize new technologies for multilingual education, connectivity, global literacy and
numeracy, coding, and the new potentialities of ICT-enabled instruction.
· To allow adults to develop new skills and continually learn.

First and foremost, teaching requires on the part of teachers a high level of knowledge so that students, who learn through the process of instruction, may achieve a standard of education that they would not obtain on their own.

Education should develop the ability to observe, to reason, to synthesize and to develop a sense of justice, respect, tolerance and compassion for others. We need to teach universal and ecumenical values and virtues as a core purpose of education. These include empathy, fraternity,
commitment to justice and human rights, and pursuit of the common good. The challenges of globalization can only be met by a cosmopolitan education, rooted in a world ethos shared between religious and non-religious people across all cultural divides. It is from this overlapping
moral and multireligious consensus, rooted in human dignity and the common good, that the formation of character and the instruction of minds ought to begin. Education must teach respect for all religions, cultures, and traditions.

We need an educational system that promotes a fair, inclusive and sustainable world—without slavery and exclusion, where we take care of our common home, and where all have access to land, housing, work, education, and the foundations of a dignified life.
We need to teach creativity, critical thinking, independence, and social empowerment as a fundamental preparation for truly open, diverse, and democratic societies. We need to support all families to be places of nurturing and education of their children, from
early childhood through adolescence, and to empower parents to know and pursue healthy and nurturing practices.[2]

Universities have a leading role to play in mobilizing action for the full and timely implementation of the SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement—in reorganizing their own mission, humanistic values, curricula, and research to support sustainable development and the common good; in supporting teacher training colleges in poorer countries; and in encouraging global and regional academies of science to support such efforts.

Corporations also need to provide training and educational opportunities to foster lifelong learning, to inculcate virtue, and to support the integral development of all workers. Recognizing that education also takes place outside the classroom, we must consider the impact
of politics, large corporations, and media on democracy, which engage or discourage citizen participation.

Some Specific Commitments
We commit to doing our part—individually, through our respective institutions, and as part of Ethics in Action.

We will explore ways to help the Congregation for Catholic Education and similar educational institutions of other religious faiths open thousands of new schools, especially secondary schools, throughout Africa and other regions in need.

We will support the new initiative Move Humanity (SDSN) to reach out to high-net worth families to help close the education funding gap.

The University of Notre Dame, the SDG Academy, and the Global Masters of Development Practice will join forces to promote and advance a new 21st-century sustainable development curriculum for universities around the world, including free online instruction through the SDG
Academy. The organizing committee of the World Meeting of Popular Movements will promote these online courses among the leadership of grassroots organizations.

The University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, New York University, Yale University, the University of Notre Dame, and other US-based universities will join forces to advance SDG 4 within the US, and will encourage other university networks around the world to do the same.

Ethics in Action, Religions for Peace, SDSN, and other interested partners will commit as a group to prepare a new course on the virtues of a sustainable society, engaging the world’s leading religious and philosophical traditions. They will seek out best practices of virtue education across the world’s traditions. SDSN and the SDG Academy will support a new global online course on this topic. FAS will test this course in public schools in the Amazon on a pilot basis.

The SDG Center for Africa, on behalf of Ethics in Action, will convey our enthusiastic encouragement to Africa’s leaders for a bold partnership of Ethics in Action with the African Union to achieve SDG 4, including through the Fund for African Secondary Education.

SDSN Youth will organize young people around the world through its Global Schools Program to take up the challenge of education for sustainable development at the primary and secondary levels—not only as advocates, but also through training, curriculum design, ICT applications and other skills that young people will need to achieve the SDGs.

End notes
[1] “Children and young people must be helped, with the aid of the latest advances in psychology and the arts and science of teaching, to develop harmoniously their physical, moral and intellectual endowments so that they may gradually acquire a mature sense of responsibility in
striving endlessly to form their own lives properly and in pursuing true freedom as they surmount the vicissitudes of life with courage and constancy.”

[2] As Pope Francis notes, “today we consider the vocation of families to educate their children, to raise them in the profound human values which are the backbone of a healthy society.”

Blue Chip Foundation Exhibit at Brooklyn’s Photoville

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

September 24, 2017

Brooklyn—The Blue Chip Foundation and founder Jennifer Gross supported and produced the Millennium Villages Project at Brooklyn’s annual Photoville event, an immersive photography village in DUMBO’s Brooklyn Bridge Park. The event, which transformed more than 55 shipping containers into awe-inspiring galleries teeming with photos from all over the world—and covering fascinating subjects—lasted 11 days and attracted thousands of visitors.

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Wildlife conservation, sustainable development at UN-backed conference

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Focusing on wildlife conservation for sustainable development, Brandee Chambers, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Migratory Species ( CMS ) addressed delegates from over 120 countries in the Philippines saying, “Development without a regard for the environment is not sustainable. Their future is our future.” This year’s event is dedicated to wildlife and is the largest of its kind since its adoption in 1979. The theme of “Their Future is Our Future – Sustainable Development for Wildlife & People” illustrates the connection with other sustainable development goals aligned with alleviating poverty and hunger, preserving oceans and forests, and improving health and education.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/wildlife-conservation-sustainable-development-...

Cities & local policies key to overcome hunger, stresses head of UN

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Director General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Jose Graziano da Silva, expressed the need for multi-stakeholder, innovative partnerships to combat malnutrition and hunger. Addressing mayors and representatives from around the world, Mr. Graziano highlighted his experience with Brazil’s Zero Hunger Program that incorporated cities across the country to help 40 million people access healthy food and overcome hunger. Additionally, FAO supports governments in creating a dialogue about the importance of developing food system improvements among parliamentarians, farmers, and local leaders.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/cities-and-local-policies-key-to-overcome-hung...

Despite drop in infant mortality rate, 7,000 die every day

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Despite a drop in infant mortality rates below the age of five, newborns deaths are rising. Greater prevention requires enhanced information and technologies, especially in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Access to the information and technologies already available remains a major obstacle in these areas. The best measure of universal, affordable, quality health coverage is accessibility, according to Tim Evans, Senior Director of the Health Nutrition and Population at the World Bank Group. Although the report outlines the progress achieved, the prevalence of inequalities must be reversed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/despite-drop-in-under-five-mortality-rate-7000...

Africa’s rapid urbanization can drive industrialization, says new UN

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In a new report from the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) , Giovanie Biha explained that African rapid urbanization has led to services growth instead of the industrial agriculture and output necessary to combat poverty and promote growth. Urban population growth poses a series of challenges that could provide opportunities for industrialization, which could in turn positively benefit the continent. Large-scale investments are necessary to reverse a slowing rate of growth across manufacturing sectors, but inadequate financial and structural constraints are threatening infrastructure development.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/africas-rapid-urbanization-can-drive-industria...

Day for Eradicating Poverty: prosperity, human dignity & rights

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The UN is commemorating the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on October 17, 2017, marking 25 years since the observance began. Despite a decline in global poverty, inequalities remain high, prompting the UN to seek broader engagement from all sectors of society to lift the 767 million people still living in extreme poverty above the international poverty line of $1.90 a day. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes the eradication of poverty as the greatest global challenge, with countries taking various actions to address it. The observance, organized by the UN and the International Movement ATD Fourth World, will feature events at the UN Headquarters in New York and around the world. Global poverty has decreased from 1.7 billion people in 1999 to 767 million in 2013, with significant progress in Eastern and South-Eastern Asia. However, 42% of people in sub-Saharan Africa continued to live in extreme poverty in 2013. The 2030 Agenda’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize that eradicating poverty in all its forms is crucial. Inequality remains high, and countries with higher income inequality experience higher levels of violence. Countries like Tanzania, Norway, Sweden, and India have taken steps to end poverty since the Agenda’s adoption. This year’s theme for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty focuses on the “path toward peaceful and inclusive societies,” highlighting the importance of engaging all segments of society. An event hosted by the Permanent Missions of Burkina Faso and France to the UN will take place at the UN Headquarters, featuring testimonies from people living in poverty and moments of reflection and solidarity. The Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts and struggles of those living in poverty and their willingness to contribute to its eradication.

In recognition of the annual International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the UN marked the 25th anniversary on 17 October in observance of the outstanding 767 million people suffering from extreme poverty. Calling for renewed attention and more comprehensive global engagement in support of eliminating poverty, to bring prosperity, human dignity , and human rights. The UN set the theme of a “path toward peaceful and inclusive societies” for 2017. Eradicating all forms of poverty, the single greatest obstacle of the 17 sustainable development goal s of The 2030 Agenda for Su stainable Development , requires “a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable world,” according to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/international-day-for-the-eradication-of-poverty-to-stress-greater-engagement-in-drive-to-promote-prosperity-human-dignity-and-human-rights/

Security Council debate on ‘women, peace and security’ gender equality

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Security Council convened for a day-long debate to address the critical issue of women's participation in peace efforts. Delegates from Member States, regional organizations, and civil society organizations gathered to discuss strategies for enhancing women's involvement at all levels of these processes.

A key focus of the debate was the need to ensure adequate representation of women in the security sector. By doing so, we can not only reduce women's exposure to harm but also harness their unique perspectives and skills in conflict prevention and resolution. Despite progress, the low percentage of female peacekeepers remains a concern. Increasing the number of female uniformed personnel is essential to create a more inclusive and effective peacekeeping force.

Moreover, gender equality and the security of women serve as reliable indicators of peace. Strengthening the collection and analysis of gender statistics is crucial for understanding the impact of conflict on women and girls. Encouraging Member States to monitor gender equality indicators as part of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can further enhance our efforts to promote peace and security.

The implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 on women and peace and security often remains ad hoc. To address this, Member States should share evidence and examples of their experiences to identify gaps and successes in its implementation. This will help us learn from best practices and improve our approaches.

While progress has been made, challenges persist. The decline in women's participation in UN-led peace processes, the inclusion of gender-sensitive provisions in peace agreements, and the consultation with women's civil society organizations remain areas of concern. The low proportion of women parliamentarians in conflict and post-conflict countries is another obstacle to women's meaningful involvement in peacebuilding.

To overcome these challenges, we must employ strategies such as quotas and temporary special measures to address the political marginalization of women. Additionally, ensuring gender-conscious funding for policies and programs is essential for supporting women's empowerment initiatives.

The women, peace and security agenda has become an indispensable pillar of global affairs. However, the persistent political marginalization of women in decision-making remains a significant challenge. A stronger chorus of voices is needed to address this issue and ensure that women's perspectives are fully integrated into peacebuilding efforts.

Effectively combating sexual and gender-based violence and ending impunity is another critical priority. Greater participation of women's organizations and community leaders in the design and implementation of security and peacebuilding efforts is essential for ensuring that these initiatives are responsive to women's needs and priorities.

At the open debate, Charo Mina-Rojas of the NGO Working Group on Women , Peace and Security reminded participants about the duty of people to defend women against violence. She stressed the need for witnesses to speak out against crimes rather than remain silent. Her remarks underscored the importance of individual action in creating a safer and more equitable world for women.

The day-long debate at the UN Security Council highlighted the urgent need to strengthen partnerships, promote gender equality, and ensure women's meaningful participation in peace efforts. By addressing these challenges, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable peace.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/security-council-debate-on-women-peace-and-sec...

Humanoid robot joins UN meeting on artificial intelligence

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In a panel at ‘The future of everything – sustainable development in the age of rapid technological change,’ the United Nations delved into the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate progress on global development goals, while also addressing the complex challenges it poses. These challenges encompass ethical questions, human rights issues, and security risks. The event underscored the uneven distribution of technological progress and emphasized the necessity of ensuring that AI benefits all of humanity. One of the notable aspects of the event was the participation of Sophia, a humanoid robot as one of the panelists. Sophia's presence highlighted the intersection of technology and human interaction, bringing attention to the broader implications of AI in society.

There is growing apprehension that if technological advancements are not managed properly, they could exacerbate existing inequalities. The influence of technology on societies should be guided by human actions and decisions, rather than being left to machines. This perspective was echoed throughout the event, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to AI development and deployment.

Sophia, the humanoid robot, played a prominent role in the discussions. During a brief interaction with the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Sophia quoted a science fiction writer on the uneven distribution of technological progress. She suggested that if AI is utilized in a smart and focused manner, it could help distribute the world's resources more efficiently. Sophia has become a media sensation, having given numerous interviews, performed in concerts, and even appeared on the cover of a fashion magazine. Her involvement in the event brought a unique perspective to the conversation about AI and its potential impact on society.

The event was co-organized by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the UN General Assembly’s Second Committee. The ECOSOC President cautioned that the long-term consequences of technological changes on economies and societies are still unknown, and the risks associated with these technologies need to be carefully assessed. The Second Committee Chairman from Estonia shared insights on how AI-based solutions are advancing the country’s digital society. Estonia has made significant strides in e-government and digital services, with Internet access being considered a social right and nearly all public services accessible online. The development of a legal and cyber-risk management framework for autonomous vehicles was highlighted as an example of Estonia’s forward-thinking approach to technology and sustainable development.

Overall, the event at the United Nations highlighted both the potential and the challenges of AI in advancing global development goals. It emphasized the importance of managing technological progress to ensure it benefits all of humanity and does not exacerbate existing inequalities. The discussions underscored the need for a human-centered approach to AI, where technology serves as a tool to enhance human capabilities and address global challenges.

To read the UN article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/humanoid-robot-joins-un-meeting-on-artificial-...

SDGs Implementation in the USA: A Strategic Vision

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

News: October 9, 2017

US Agenda 2030

Sustainable Development Goals in the USA

Los Angeles— SDG USA has released its strategic vision for the United States, supported by the Blue Chip Foundation and a number of other organizations. Called America’s Goals for 2030, SDG USA’s strategic vision is designed to support citizens, businesses, policymakers, universities and politicians in meeting goals to promote sustainable development in the U.S.

America’s Goals for 2030 adapt the principles of the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goals , or SDGs, to the States by focusing on six activities: Building a national consensus around the goals, educating political candidates, promoting “A Pledge for America’s Goals,” partnering with like-minded individuals and organizations, providing technical expertise, and hosting briefings, training sessions, and workshops.

“The targets outlined in America’s Goals for 2030 are designed to serve as a starting point for deliberations,” says Jennifer Stengaard Gross , founder of Blue Chip Foundation . “These goals are designed to foster sustainable development and to bring people up to a fair, equitable standard of living.”

SDG USA’s targets include employers acting ethically by providing at least $20 per hour take-home pay for all; sick, parental and vacation leave for all; and equal pay for equal work. Meeting these needs will carry the U.S. forward in eradicating poverty.

“We’ve become a remarkably polarized, remarkably short-sighted, short-term… and non-goal- oriented in American politics right now,” says leading economist Jeffrey Sachs, who founded SDG USA. “We’re on the wrong track. Politics does not work right now.”

Citing the nation’s failure to address environmental threats and skyrocketing healthcare costs, Sachs doesn’t pin the blame solely on Congress or the president – although the way the U.S. government operates is a key factor in the backlog and low awareness levels of the American electorate.

“What we need in the U.S. is different from what Spain needs, or what Ghana needs, or what China needs – but the broad idea that we’re aiming for [is] prosperity, that we’re aiming for fairness, and that we’re aiming for environmental safety,” says Sachs.

The goals are incredibly important – not just to the U.S.’s future, but to those of other nations, as well. America’s Goals for 2030 include seven goals that states can implement individually, without becoming tangled in Washington’s red tape.

“ Blue Chip Foundation , as well as many other organizations, is calling for affordable higher education with a cap on the costs of college or vocational training in every state. We want students to graduate with zero debt,” says Gross. “Our citizens need universal access to affordable high-speed internet connectivity, adequate and safe public transportation, and access to safe drinking water. Americans need good jobs, equal opportunity and strengthened governance, and many states are in a position to reach many of them before the 2030 goal.”

Specific SDG USA target goals include achieving a nationwide life expectancy of at least 84 years of age with low-cost universal health coverage, new investments in zero-carbon power, transportation, buildings and industry, and 100 percent safe, quality infrastructure such as roads, bridges, railways, airports and sea ports.

The organization is also aiming for sustainable land, water and biodiversity, public debt below 60 percent of GDP, and decarceration (freedom of incarcerated inmates) down to 100 prisoners per 100,000 in population (or less). Finally, American aid for the world’s poor should be equal to that of other high-income nations and the country should provide access to clean air, recycling, and green spaces for nationals.

“A core purpose of the goals is to measure, track and hold politicians accountable for progress,” says Sachs. “SDG USA conducts research on the measurement and status of America’s Goals across the 50 states, and on the best state practices and policy options to achieve them. Initial research on baseline conditions across the states shows wide disparities between states, even within the same region. Readily available data also demonstrates that overall, the U.S. is lagging behind other high-income countries.”

“SDG USA is coordinating with like-minded groups, such as Future Now and Brand New Congress, to educate political candidates about the importance of America’s Goals for 2030,” says Gross. “They’re forming alliances with several groups, including Bread for the World, and planning on several workshops, training sessions and briefings to build a network of people who can bring these goals to fruition.”

FAO: Join global treaty to root out the scourge of illegal fishing

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Conference of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) introduced the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), a new global treaty that calls for all countries to join the fight against illegal fishing. FAO has set aside funding dedicated to supporting poorer countries in developing technical, scientific, and legal frameworks to support successful outcomes from the initiative. Other programs supported by the FAO such as Blue Growth provide additional funding to help small island states achieve ecological sustainability.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/10/fao-join-global-treaty-to-root-out-the-scourge...

Donating Smartphones to Ghana’s Community Health Workers Initiative

Sat, 30 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

News: September 30,2017

New York—Philanthropist Jennifer Stengaard Gross , founder of Blue Chip Foundation, donated 5,000 smartphones to Ghana’s president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the International Conference on Sustainable Development at Columbia University in New York City for the Community Health Workers initiative. The phones, part of a pioneering national Health program designed to strengthen the country’s healthcare strategy—Community Based Planning and Services, or CHPS enables communication and real-time data flow, improving universal healthcare coverage in rural, Ghana.

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More than half of children and youth worldwide ‘not learning’ – UNESCO

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Failures in achieving minimum proficiency levels among children and adolescents are threatening the progress of sustainable development.

The highest rates of failure occur in primary school age children in Sub-Saharan Africa. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ) two-thirds of children who fail to meet these basic proficiency levels are in classrooms. Poor quality of education, access to schools, and student retention rates are the three most significant obstacles in achieving global goals.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/more-than-half-of-children-and-youth-worldwide-not-learning-unesco/

UN and partners launch initiative to reach equal pay for women at work

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations labor agency and Organization’s entity promotion of women’s rights launched a new coalition to secure women’s rights. According to Guy Ryder, the Director-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), “equal pay for work of equal value” is essential. Earnings for women remain 17 percent below men’s rates, according to data provided by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Women who earn equal pay can look after their families and invest in their children’s education and health. Equal pay for women leads to inclusive societies with job opportunities that help reduce poverty.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/un-and-partners-launch-initiative-to-reach-equ...

Guterres urges global leaders to repair ‘world in pieces’

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Nuclear peril, climate change , and other conflicts are threatening the world according to a recent address delivered by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Reiterating the need for world peace, Mr. Guterres addressed global leaders at the United Nations Headquarters. He called for a political framework as the only effective solution to avoid war. The Secretary-General also highlighted the need for significantly increasing diplomacy efforts to unite the international community in combating violence and conflict.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/repair-world-in-pieces-and-create-world-at-pea...

World’s poverty is bearing the brunt of global crises, stresses UN expert

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Seeking broader appeal for people living in the world’s least developed countries and isolated island nations suffering the brunt of global energy, economic, climate change, and global crises beyond their control, UN Special Rapporteur on the right to development , Saad Alfaragi appealed to the Human Rights Council in his maiden report. Calling attention to unsatisfactory global commitment of already established global initiatives including the Paris Agreement, Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Alfaragi emphasized the priority of guaranteeing human rights and “the right to development a reality for everyone.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/worlds-poor-bearing-the-brunt-of-global-crises-stresses-un-rights-expert/

Global food prices fall in August as cereal output approaches new high

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization ( FAO ), anticipation surrounding bumper cereal harvests and increasing volumes of grain inventories are responsible for cheaper global food prices in August. Trends from July’s FAO Food Price Index, responsible for tracking five key commodity prices, show a decline of 1.3 percent. Although this figure represents a decline, the index remained 6 percent above levels from one year earlier. Volumes of global cereal production as well as stocks of cereals are forecast to reach all-time highs through 2018 season’s end. Increasing expectations for higher volumes of wheat, barley and maize production in Russia will offset anticipated downturns in Canada and the United States.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/global-food-prices-fall-in-august-as-cereal-output-heads-for-record-high-un/

UN summit spotlights financial need to combat land degradation

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Fund launched recently in order to reverse desertification. Coinciding with a global summit in China, the initiative is focused on raising additional investment and collaboration among stakeholders to protect existing terrestrial habitats. According to Monique Barbut, the Executive Secretary of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), there is urgency for implementing technically proficient projects that will help reverse land degradation. Protecting lands from drought and abuse will ensure the sustainable production of food, water, and energy in these environments.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/09/un-summit-spotlights-financial-need-to-combat-...

Access to safe water and sanitation is a right, not a privilege

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Billions Worldwide Lack Safe, Clean Water Sanitation Facilities

In this article from 2017, The United Nations Children Fund ( UNICEF ) warned that the critical shortage of safe drinking water in countries affected by conflict, violence, and instability put millions of children at risk of disease and malnutrition. Children in these fragile situations are four times more likely to lack access to safe water, and that water infrastructure has been deliberately targeted and damaged, leading to widespread water shortages. Their report emphasizes the urgent need to address this crisis and ensure children's right to safe water, particularly in Yemen, Syria, Nigeria, and South Sudan.

Key Points

Children in countries affected by violence, conflict, and instability are four times more likely to lack access to safe drinking water.
Over 180 million people in crisis-torn countries have no access to drinking water
Water supply networks in Yemen are at risk of collapse due to war-inflicted damage and disrepair, cutting off 15 million people from regular access to water and sanitation.
In Syria, around 15 million people are in need of safe water, including an estimated 6.4 million children.

Water as a Weapon of War

Water has been deliberately used as a weapon of war, with at least 30 deliberate water cuts in 2016 in countries like Syria, Yemen, and Nigeria
Water pumps have been destroyed and water sources contaminated, leaving 3.6 million people without basic water services.
In South Sudan, almost half of the water points across the country have been damaged or destroyed.

Consequences of Water Scarcity

Lack of safe water leads to malnutrition and potentially fatal diseases like cholera.
In Yemen, children make up more than 53% of the over half a million cases of suspected cholera and acute watery diarrhea.
Somalia is experiencing the largest cholera outbreak in the last five years, with nearly 77,000 cases.
South Sudan is facing its most severe cholera outbreak, with more than 19,000 cases since June 2016.

Urgent Need For Action

In famine-threatened regions of Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen, nearly 30 million people, including 14.6 million children are in urgent need of safe water.
More than 5 million children are estimated to be malnourished this year, with 1.4 million severely so.
Ensuring children's access to safe water and sanitation, especially in conflicts and emergencies, is a fundamental right, not a privelege.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/08/childrens-access-to-safe-water-and-sanitation-is-a-right-not-a-privilege-unicef/

Emigration & food insecurity in Central America focus of UN study

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent inter-agency study examining trends between prolonged droughts, irregular migration, and food insecurity, the UN food relief agency outlined the need for greater investment in long-term programs to deter individuals from emigrating to the United States from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras – countries significantly impacted by the El Niño weather related events from 2014 to 2016. The study determined that family members left behind suffer from outstanding debts associated with those people that attempted to migrate. Often, families resort to emergency measures including the selling of land and farm animals to buy food. Those individuals that attempt migration unsuccessfully lead their families to face even greater debt obligations.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/08/emigration-and-food-insecurity-in-central-american-dry-corridor-focus-of-new-un-backed-study/

UN Assembly President sounds Nasdaq bell; for endangered ocean

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Peter Thomson, President of the United Nations General Assembly, called attention to the damage being done to oceans. At the start of the trading day in New York, Mr. Thomson said, “The Ocean is in trouble.” Participating in the daily ceremony of ringing the Nasdaq bell, he reminded ceremony attendees of the upcoming Ocean Conference in June. Additionally, he stated the importance of contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for humanity’s sake and to help preserve endangered ocean.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/08/un-assembly-president-rings-nasdaq-bell-sounds...

Rural families in Iraq benefit from mobile cash-transfer technology

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Agriculture agency introduced a mobile cash-transfer service, a cash-for- work program to enhance agriculture infrastructure development by facilitating job opportunities for vulnerable and displaced peoples in rural areas of Iraq. In rural areas exposed to conflict, difficulty in finding jobs is especially high. The program is designed to support farming infrastructure and strengthen food security for approximately 12 million Iraqis. Participants will include families subjected to conflict or displacement caused by violence. Women and disabled people with no other source of income will benefit from access to these jobs.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/08/conflict-affected-rural-families-in-iraq-to-be...

‘Sustainable, inclusive societies,’ priority for UN Economic President

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Marie Chatardova, President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council ( ECOSOSC ), outlined her number one priority in working to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs ) also known as the 2030 Agenda by creating more sustainable, inclusive societies. A week after the High-Level Political Forum, Ms. Chatardova participated in her first meeting as president. Discussing how to measure progress achieved in reaching the 2030 Agenda, Ms. Chatardova praised the success among member states in developing a shared vision through participation in Voluntary National Reviews.

Improving individual people’s lives is the true measure of success for assessing the effectiveness of the ECOSOC.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/07/sustainable-inclusive-societies-priority-for-n...

Billions worldwide lack safe, clean water sanitation facilities.

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Clean Water Sanitation Facilities

The Dangers Facing Our Children

A report by the UN News Centre highlights the urgent need for countries to ensure safe and readily available water and clean water sanitation facilities, as well as effective sanitation and hygiene services, for all people, especially the most disadvantaged communities and children. It warns that millions suffer from preventable diseases due to the lack of these basic services, and calls for accelerated progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water and sanitation.

Key Points:

Lack of Access to Safe Water and Sanitation

Nearly 3 in 10 people globally lack access to safe and readily available water at home.
Almost 6 in 10 people lack access to safely managed sanitation services.
Many homes, healthcare facilities, and schools also lack soap and water for handwashing, putting health at risk, especially for young children.
Those living in rural areas are the worst affected by the lack of these basic services.

Consequences of Lack of Access

Millions fall ill to diseases that could have easily been prevented, such as diarrhoea, which claims the lives of 361,000 children under 5 every year.
Good hygiene, particularly handwashing, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of diseases.

Inequalities in Access

Access to water and soap for handwashing varies significantly, from 15% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa to 76% in western Asia and northern Africa.
These inequalities put the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all) at risk.

Slow Progress Towards Universal Coverage

In 90 countries, progress towards basic sanitation is too slow to reach universal coverage by 2030.
Hundreds of millions still lack even a basic drinking water service, including those who have to spend over 30 minutes per trip collecting water from sources outside the home or drink untreated surface water.
Similarly, 2.3 billion people still do not have basic sanitation services, including those who share toilets or practice open defecation.

Importance of Improving Services

Improving these services in the most disadvantaged communities and for the most disadvantaged children is essential to giving them a fairer chance at a better future.
All countries have a responsibility to ensure everyone can access these basic requirements for human health.

This United Nations report implores countries to amplify initiatives to support the three in ten people unable to access safe water at home and nearly six in ten people without proper sanitation. Insufficient hygiene due to lack of soap and water in homes, schools, and other locations is exposing children to greater risk of disease, especially in rural areas. Major shortfalls persist for as many as 90 countries in meeting water and sanitation targets in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/07/billions-around-the-world-lack-safe-water-proper-sanitation-facilities-reveals-un-report/

UN marks Day of the Tropics with focus on region’s vulnerability

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

According to the United Nations, the most vulnerable areas susceptible to environmental threats exist in the Tropics. The International Day of the Tropics marks, “the extraordinary diversity of the tropics while highlighting unique challenges and opportunities nations of the Tropics face.” The Tropics stretch from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn. Rain is a common unifying characteristic facing all nations within the Tropics. The area is responsible for a little over half of the world’s renewable water supply based on data from the UN. Particular attention to climate change initiatives is essential for ensuring sustainable freshwater supplies.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/06/un-marks-day-of-the-tropics-with-focus-on-regi...

UNICEF cites critical role fathers play in early childhood learning

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Early Education and the Role Fathers Play in Child Development

Increasing Support for Early Childhood Development Programs

A study by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) found that a majority of children aged 3-4 years in 74 countries, around 40 million, do not have their fathers engage in early learning activities with them. UNICEF urges governments and the private sector to increase support for early childhood development programs that provide parents the resources and information to nurture their children's development, as research shows the important role fathers play in their children's wellbeing.

Key Points

Fathers' Engagement in Early Learning

Around 40 million children aged 3-4 years in 74 countries do not have their fathers engage in early learning activities with them.
Fathers are struggling to play an active role in their children's early years.
Engaging in activities like reading, storytelling, singing, playing, and naming/counting/drawing with their children is important for early childhood development.

Importance of Fathers in Early Childhood Development

Positive interaction with fathers leads to better psychological health, self-esteem, and life satisfaction for children in the long-term.
Lack of stimulation and care from fathers can prevent neural connections from forming in children, which are crucial for their health, ability to learn, and future earning potential.
Fathers' involvement in early childhood is crucial for children to thrive.

UNICEF's Call to Action

UNICEF urges governments and the private sector to increase spending and policies to support early childhood development programs that provide parents the resources and information they need.
UNICEF is running a campaign to encourage families to share photos and videos showcasing 'super dads' to inspire others.

Studies and advances in neuroscience indicate that healthy adults are the product of childhood environments that promote nurture, stimulation, and learning. These environments are critical later in life for mental health, handling stress, and increased earning power.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/06/ahead-of-fathers-day-unicef-cites-critical-rol...

World Environment Day (Media Advisory)

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Aimed at promoting sustainable lifestyles, the World Environment Day is held on 5 June at the UN Headquarters in New York with a variety of speakers from various agencies and organizations. Canada is hosting this year’s World Environment Day with the theme, “Connecting People to Nature.” Additionally, representatives from Canada and the United Nations will join Adrian Grenier at the Special World Environment Day at the Ocean Conference to discuss sustainability and conservation initiatives .

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http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/06/world-environment-day-media-advisory/

BCF Participates in T20 Global Solutions Think Tank in Berlin

Tue, 30 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

May 30, 2017

Berlin— Blue Chip Foundation , represented by founder Jennifer Gross , was part of the T20 Global Solutions Think Tank in Berlin on May 29 and 30, 2017. Gross, who serves on the leadership council of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network , found the event a tremendous success.

“The real challenges in the world are beyond the capacity to solve through any one of the participants in the G20. This not about the members of the G20 and their personal desires or political schemes,” says Gross. “This is truly about our children and our grandchildren and the T20 attempt to bring that realization to the forefront. The environmental challenges that we are facing in terms of energy and biodiversity are staggering, and we have an unstable geopolitical situation with arms. The SDGs are our best hope in the path to solving the problems we are facing in our future and the best hope for moral and virtuous solutions in what could be the salvation of the world our children and grandchildren will live in.”

The T20, chaired by Dennis J. Snower, president of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, and Dirk Messner, director of the German Development Institute (Deutsches Institut für Entwicklungspolitik), develops policy recommendations for the G20.

The two-day Global Solutions summit involved more than 1,000 participants, including politicians, business magnates, academics and members of civil society who came together to discuss the policy proposals drawn up by each task force.

Main themes at the event involved digitalization, efforts to build a stable, sustainable and resilient global economy, and climate policy. Poverty, inequality, and the management of forced migration were also hot topics for attendees, as well as the 2030 Agenda—a universal framework for human development and shared prosperity.

“The T20 is a network of research institutes and so-called ‘think tanks’ from the G20 countries, and it provides research-based policy advice to the G20,” says Gross. “The organization also makes it possible for its members to communicate with policymakers, and it communicates issues of global importance to the general public.”

At the summit, the T20 called on the G20 to collaborate on employment and education policies for the digital age, as well as to promote the leveraging of market forces to support low-carbon growth. Additionally, the T20 asked the G20 to consider a full and permanent seat for the African Union Commission in the G20.

Blue Chip Foundation at Ethics in Action 3: Migrants and Refugees

Fri, 26 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

May 26, 2017

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City — Blue Chip Foundation , represented by founder Jennifer Gross , participated in Ethics in Action 3: Migrants and Refugees on May 25 and 26 to help address the moral response to mass migration and the world’s current refugee crisis. Organized by Ethics in Action, a partnership of the Chancellor of the Pontifical Academies, the UN Sustainable Development Network , Religions for Peace and the University of Notre Dame, dozens of attendees participated in promising dialogue and resulted in a pledge from EIA to fulfill six key pledges to help alleviate suffering and end the crisis.

“There are more than 65 million people who have been forcefully displaced,” says Gross, who helped found Ethics in Action. “The majority of these people are internally displaced persons, or IDPs. They’re not formal refugees crossing international borders, and they’re often displaced because of socio-economic, war, and terror.”

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Task of eradicating poverty must be met ‘with a sense of urgency

Mon, 08 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Appealing to key stakeholders, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed outlined best practices and recommendations for eradicating poverty at the 2017 Integration Segment of the Economic and Social Council ( ECOSOC ). The Deputy Secretary-General addressed the form that an effective integrated policy framework requires in order to raise awareness of the interconnected 17 sustainable development goals . Calling for extensive partnerships across all domains of development and throughout all levels of the economy, the Deputy Secretary-General mentioned the SDG Indicator Framework as a benchmarking tool in assessing the efficacy of national approaches. Looking ahead, the meeting will release recommendations on future policy on a national, regional and international scale.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/05/task-of-eradicating-poverty-must-be-met-with-a-sense-of-urgency-says-deputy-un-chief/

UN study makes ‘strong’ case for Africa’s investment in green energy

Fri, 05 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Energy investments in renewable energy infrastructure are essential for Africa’s economic advancement according to a new UN Atlas of Africa Green Energy Resources study based on data from 54 countries. Increasing energy production levels and extending electrification to rural areas are necessary for broad socioeconomic development across the African continent. The Atlas also provides information on reaching sustainable energy development targets from analysis of ongoing satellite imagery data.

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http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/05/new-un-study-makes-strong-economic-case-for-africas-investment-in-green-energy/

More action needed to meet energy goals by 2030, new report finds

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A number of energy goals and challenges are threatening universal access to clean, affordable energy by 2030 in a Global Tracking Framework (GTF) report by the World Bank and the International Energy Agency. Enhanced policy initiatives, greater investment and new technology adoption are essential for reaching targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . The report measures the progress in electrification and clean cooking, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.

Read Full Article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/04/more-action-needed-to-meet-energy-goals-by-2030-new-report-finds/

BCF - Founder Jennifer Gross at Ethics in Action Meeting for Education

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

News: February 3, 2017

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City — Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross, addressed the Ethics in Action committee at the Vatican on Sustainable Development Goal 4 : Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning.

Gross, whose foundation promotes awareness and encourages action on behalf of struggling populations across the world, says that the international community’s unwillingness to supply resources is causing possibly irreversible damage.

“Of the 1.6 billion children in the world, over 123 million are not in school, and 400 million have not learned basic literacy. By 2030, if present trends continue, half the children on the planet will not have the basic skills needed for employment,” Gross said. “There is a significant shortfall that must be financed by international aid – about $40 billion in 2020, reaching $90 billion by 2030. However, international aid for education has been stagnant since 2010 and is at risk of stopping altogether.”

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Ethics in Action Convenes, Gathers World’s Religious Leaders

Thu, 02 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

News: February 2, 2017

Casina Pio IV , Vatican City—Ethics in Action convened for the first time to bring together representatives from major world religions in the global battle against violence, poverty and injustice. Jennifer Stengaard Gross , founder of Blue Chip Foundation and EIA organizer, says the initial conference was a tremendous success.

A number of religious leaders—including Muhammad al-Sammak, doctor and Secretary General of the Islamic Christian National Dialogue Committee in Lebanon, and development practitioners like Kerry Kennedy, president of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization — worked with representatives from universities and organizations across the globe to find practical resolutions that can guide the world away from war during the two-day conference.

“Our goal is to work toward the vision of positive peace. We’re mobilizing the scientific, academic, and international communities to reflect on the volatile tensions around the globe and what we can do about them,” says Gross of EIA’s mission.

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Guterres highlights the link between peace and sustainable development

Tue, 24 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Highlighting the interconnectedness of sustainable development and peace, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the UN General Assembly high-level dialogue. During the address, he emphasized the links between inequality, conflict, and climate change. Mr. Guterres also stated that preventing threats ranging from natural disasters, poverty, and other global challenges require inclusive and sustainable development initiatives . He informed the assembly that the two biggest challenges confronting economic development include education and youth unemployment.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/01/guterres-highlights-importance-of-recognizing-...

UN envoy Forest Whitaker honored for work in peacebuilding

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Forest Whitaker, actor and United Nations agency special envoy, received the 2017 Crystal Award in Davos, Switzerland. The actor was quoted as saying, “People themselves have to push forward…they need to have empowerment to know that they actually can make a difference and make a change.” He is responsible for actively working to achieve peace through his International Institute for Peace (IIP) founded in 2011 and the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative founded in 2012. Both projects are established with the aim of reducing conflict and providing opportunities to young women and men in Mexico, South Sudan, and Uganda.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2017/01/un-envoy-forest-whitaker-honoured-for-work-in-...

Show at United Nations: Photo Essay

Thu, 15 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

A Photographic Essay on the Millennium Villages Project

New York—Photos from the Millennium Villages Project (MVP) : A Photographic Essay on Sustainable Development are on display in the visitors’ lobby of the United Nations building in Manhattan throughout the month of December. The December 15 opening ceremony attracted more than 120 guests, board members from VII and representatives from a number of photography-oriented magazines.

Jennifer Gross , founder of Blue Chip Foundation, and the VII Foundatio n compiled the photos for the Show at United Nations to depict the lives of dozens of individuals living in the Sub-Saharan African countries of Ghana, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Senegal. Gross’s colleagues from the Earth Institute at Columbia University assisted with the exhibition.

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China, Mongolia and Russian Fed. begin new era of trade cooperation

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

On 8 December 2016, China, Mongolia, and Russia signed the Intergovernmental Agreement on International Road Transport , which ushered in new development for the Asian Highway Network connecting their respective territories. Negotiating the agreement occurred over a three-year period with the aim of developing infrastructure networks to promote trade cooperation among these countries and the surrounding regions. The agreement also welcomes additional countries interested in contributing transit rights to join at a later date.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2016/12/china-mongolia-and-russian-federation-to-open-...

Safari Nights, Fundraiser for Cura Orphanage, Held in Hensen Studios

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

November 18, 2016

Los Angeles—Safari Nights, a semi-annual fundraiser for Kenya’s Cura Orphanage co-hosted by Jennifer Gross of Blue Chip Foundation , attracted dozens of attendees and generous donations from Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Sammy Hagar and Rod Stewart. Typically, Safari Nights generates funds through auctions—but this year, the event relied on ticket sales and contributions. Organized by the Creative Visions Foundation , this tremendously successful event’s tickets were priced at $100 to reach a broad cross-section of philanthropically minded people.

Held in Hensen Studios’ Studio A, where “We Are the World” was recorded in 1985, Safari Nights was also hosted by Hayden Bixby, Amy Eldon Turtletaub, Faryal Ganjehei and Lucy Woodward.

Donations for the Cura Orphanage, which supports approximately 50 children who have lost their parents to AIDS, go toward ensuring the children living there are able to continue their educational journeys and obtain vocational training as they transition into adults.

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BC Foundation Participates in Vatican Youth Symposium | Casina Pio IV

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

October 31, 2016

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City — In October, Jennifer Gross, founder of the Blue Chip Foundation, participated in the “Vatican Youth Symposium: Youth and the SDGs – Challenges and Opportunities" at Casina Pio IV in Vatican City. Organized by the SDSN Youth and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the symposium aimed to empower young people to lead the sustainable development movement, recognizing their crucial role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable development.

Gross emphasized the importance of youth involvement, stating, "These youth are inheriting the planet. Their creativity, energy, and passion will fuel generational change." She highlighted the potential of young people to drive international cooperation, end extreme poverty, mitigate environmental impact, and reduce inequality.

The two-day event brought together young leaders from over 30 countries, with a significant representation from the Global South. The delegates, comprising 53% females and 477% males, were already active in promoting and implementing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Experts at the symposium noted that young people possess fluid intelligence, making them more adaptable and open to change, which is essential for solving complex global issues.

Despite their potential, the delegates identified funding and financial resources as the primary barriers to implementing the SDGs. Other challenges included differing social paradigms, lack of progressive cultures, and limited access to resources.

The Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the only supranational academy of sciences, aims to honor pure sciencce, ensure its freedom, and encourage research. SDSN Youth focuses on educating young people about sustainable development challenges and creating opportunities for them to pioneer innovative solutions for the SDGs.

The SDGs, adopted by 193 governments in September 2015, include 17 goals and 169 targets aimed at promoting people, planet, and prosperity. While the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) made significant progress in reducing poverty, over a billion people still live in extreme poverty.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, in 2014, stressed the urgency of taking decisive actions to ensure stability and prosperity for the growing global population. The SDSN, launched by Ban Ki-moon, mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote sustainable development. In 2015, SDSN Youth was established to engage and empower young people in this mission.

At the Vatican Youth Symposium, Malav Sanghavi’s LifeCradle and Jordan Imahori’s Evaporative Cooling Vest emerged as winning innovations. Sanghavi’s LifeCradle, a low-cost, cardboard baby incubator, aims to reduce infant mortality in underdeveloped regions by providing warmth, a clean environment, and easy monitoring for newborns. This innovation addresses SDG 3 and SDG 9 by ensuring healthy lives and promoting sustainable industrialization.

Imahori’s Evaporative Cooling Vest, designed to combat heat-related health issues in construction workers, uses evaporated water to lower temperatures and meets various safety standards. This vest, currently being piloted in Qatar, aligns with SDG 8 by promoting safe working environments.

These innovations highlight the potential of young leaders to drive sustainable development. The symposium underscored the importance of investing in youth creativity and technological solutions to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Cooperation among young leaders from diverse backgrounds is crucial for reaching the SDGs, demonstrating the significant impact youth can make.

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Blue Chip Foundation Commits to SDGs on Education

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

October 31, 2016

Blue Chip Foundation Commits to Global Fund for Education

The Blue Chip Foundation and the Gross Family Foundation recently donated $300,000 to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Solutions Network ( SDSN ) to help establish a Global Fund for Education within the next 5 years. This donation resulted from a successful first meeting of the Ethics in Action (EIA) initiative, which aims to deepen the world's religions' understanding of a "Moral Economy" and find solutions to end extreme poverty. EIA believes that providing universal access to healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure like water, energy, and sanitation is key to achieving this goal.

EIA is addressing the U.N.'s sustainable development goals, including stopping child labor, modern slavery, and discrimination against women, girls, and minority groups - all of which contribute to poverty. To help finance these initiatives, EIA suggests diverting up to 10% of global military spending (around $1.7 billion per year) and taxing anonymous wealth held in tax havens at up to 1% (potentially raising $200 billion annually). EIA emphasizes that this requires more than just financial support - it needs global solidarity and a "protective circle" to defend the basic human rights of the poor.

Jennifer Stengaard Gross , founder of the Blue Chip Foundation, is also a founder of EIA. The Blue Chip Foundation is committed to reviving ethical and moral decision-making in both national and global policymaking, and is working to ensure effective and predictable resource transfers from rich to poor countries to help alleviate poverty. EIA is calling on global religious and secular leaders to promote the Sustainable Development Goals and the ideas of Laudato Si' in a sustained effort to support human dignity, freedom, and peace.

Addressing “Integration of Marginalized People,” Social Inclusion

Fri, 28 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 28, 2016

[ Casino Pio, Vatican City ]— The workshop “Inclusive Solidarity and Integration of Marginalized People” brought together university representatives, philanthropic organizations, and Catholic religious leaders to discuss ways to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. The focus was on promoting social inclusion and decent work for all, including in the informal economy, as a means to lift people out of extreme poverty. The workshop explored grassroots campaigns to address urban segregation and exclusion, recognizing that poverty is a complex issue driven by cultural, economic, and political factors.

The workshop aimed to mobilize local-to-global actions to achieve inclusive and sustainable development . The primary focus was on means of social inclusion to help lift people from extreme poverty. Social inclusion can only occur when there are equal opportunities to participate in the social and economic activities that make up society. The challenge is how to extend the benefits of a prosperous economy to those who are excluded, typically those suffering from extreme poverty.

Promoting decent work for all workers, including those in the informal economy, was highlighted as the most effective route to inclusion. The workshop addressed what global leaders can do to bring billions of people out of the shadows, as nearly 20% of the world’s population lives in extreme poverty and an additional 40% live on less than $2 per day. The workshop aimed to change the reality where marginalized people are displaced, subjected to trafficking, and reduced to “laboring bodies” without recognition as human beings.

Poverty is a product of cultural habits, economic institutions, social structures, and politics. The emergence of social businesses demonstrates the potential for a shift in behavioral change, and the economy needs the diversity that social enterprise provides to maintain its resilience. While the proportion of the world’s population living in extreme poverty has declined in the past 25 years, the gains have been uneven, with the greatest concentrations still in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Poverty and environmental degradation are stoking violence and conflicts in significant parts of the world, highlighting the interconnectedness of these issues.

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UN agency urges implementation of accord to tackle illegal fishing

Tue, 12 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has celebrated the entry into force of the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing as a historic milestone. This agreement, the first-ever binding international accord specifically targeting IUU fishing, requires foreign vessels to undergo inspections at any port of call and mandates port states to share information on violations. By blocking improperly caught fish from entering markets, the agreement aims to raise the cost of IUU fishing and foster international collaboration on sustainable ocean management and livelihoods.

However, implementing the agreement may pose challenges for some nations, particularly developing and small island states, due to resource and capacity constraints. To address this, the agreement includes provisions for assistance and funding from parties and international organizations. The Republic of Korea has already committed financial support, and other nations are encouraged to follow suit. The FAO has also established programs to provide technical, logistical, legislative, and legal support to help translate the agreement into practice.

Sustainable fisheries are crucial, especially since more than half of all fish exports come from developing countries. IUU fishing, which accounts for up to 26 million tonnes of annual catches valued at up to $23 billion, jeopardizes marine ecosystems and threatens the livelihoods and food security of millions of fish workers globally. While the agreement is a powerful tool, it cannot eliminate IUU fishing on its own and must be complemented by other efforts and tools. The FAO hopes that the momentum generated by the treaty’s entry into force will lead to further international collaboration on sustainable ocean management.

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http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2016/07/un-agency-urges-implementation-of-accord-to-tackle-illegal-fishing/

Global food prices rose in June; robust wheat harvest – UN agency

Thu, 07 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported new price increases of 4.2 percent for global food commodities (specifically wheat harvest ). Additionally, the FAO released improved production targets for 2018. The guidance was included as part of the FAO Food prince index, a trade-weighted index which includes international pricing data on cereals, oils, dairy, meat, and sugar.

Read full article: http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2016/07/global-food-prices-rose-in-june-wheat-harvest-outlook-robust-un-agency/

Centesimus Annus: Reflecting on 25 Years of Social Change

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

April 15, 2016

25th Anniversary of Pope John Paul II's Centesimus Annus

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City — Jennifer Stengaard Gross represented Blue Chip Foundation at a symposium organized by the Pontifical Academy of Social Science on the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s Centesimus annus to evaluate the Catholic Church’s efforts over the past two-and- a-half decades in economic, political, and cultural mediums and to develop strategies about how the Church can continue to assist in the coming years.

“We’re facing an entirely new dynamic today,” says Gross. “Developments in culture, the internet, as well as extreme changes in economic and political life have changed since Pope John Paul II’s Centesimus annus.”

Several Catholic leaders, representatives from universities and scholarly institutions across the world, and a number of philanthropic leaders also attended the symposium.

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BCF Participates in Reaffirming Global Solidarity Workshop

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

February 22, 2016

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City —The Blue Chip Foundation, attends symposium represented by founder Jennifer Stengaard Gross , participated in the Reaffirming Global Solidarity, Restoring Humanity workshop in Vatican City’s Casina Pio IV on Feb. 22, committing to assist in the war against extreme poverty.

“At least 125 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance right now,” says Gross. “Sixty million are displaced by conflict and natural disasters. There were 880 major natural disasters over the past year, driven by climate change. It’s very clear to see what’s needed. However, the UN High Level Panel on Humanitarian Financing identified the funding gap: It’s at least $15 billion. This workshop addressed that issue and, as a result, we were able to come up with several actionable points that can help mobilize resources to help defend the identity and dignity of all people.”

The group, which included a number of Catholic and other religious leaders, as well as several representatives from non-governmental organizations, such as UNICEF, Oxfam International, and World Vision International, issued a statement recognizing that 75 percent of humanitarian needs result from war.

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Blue Chip Foundation Visits Bonsasso, Ghana With VII Documentary Crew

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

October, 2015

Bonsasso, Ghana— Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross , VII Association photographer Ed Kashi visited Bonsasso, a large community in the Amansie-West District of Ghana’s Ashanti Region, to document the progress the community made over a 9-year period with help from the MVP.

Nearly 70 percent of Bonsasso’s residents have lived on less than $1 a day, and all have struggled to get access to clean drinking water, electricity, communication services and sanitation.

Trekking to and from Bonsasso proved to be a challenge – and one that was holding the community back from further progress.

“The drive took at least four hours every day – two to get in and two to get out,” says Gross. “I could see that so many problems especially in the health sector would be solved if the government would only pave the roads.”

One of Bonsasso’s most notable improvements is in the healthcare sector. Traditionally, critical patients had few options; they could be seen by a local worker who may not have the tools or experience necessary to perform life-saving interventions or they could forego treatment entirely.

Gross spent time with Grace Obeng, a 24-hour nurse who sleeps in her office at her clinic in Datano. Obeng is the only staff member on duty in the clinic; there’s no one else. The clinic only has electricity four out of every seven days due to Ghana’s rolling blackouts, and travel to the clinic is hazardous – and sometimes impossible due to unpaved, rocky or muddy roads.

Despite the clinic’s shortcomings, Obeng, who’s been a nurse since 1995 and a midwife since 2004, has seen vast improvements over the area’s healthcare system.

“I can remember my first time I took a client to the clinic,” says Obeng. “I put the client behind my back on my motorbike, and I tied a cloth around [her], because there was no means of transport… and this girl was dying, so… I have to tie this girl behind my back. That was the situation.”

While the roads remain difficult to navigate, and many locals don’t have access to transportation – or the funds to hire transportation – MVP has stepped in to provide patients with faster care.

“ Millennium Villages organized an intervention where ambulances were dispersed via a Telecom Base Station. This improved healthcare significantly as patients were unable to travel long distances to receive emergency treatment before MVP arrived,” says Gross.

Although Obeng is alone in the clinic, she’s not tackling tough cases alone any more.

“When you get a case here and you think it’s beyond you, you call the Tele-Medicine center for help, and you describe the condition… They will call the doctor for a conference call. When you describe it and they think you can manage it here, they will advise you,” says Obeng.

Because new preventive measures are in place, the number of cases Obeng must treat has also sharply declined. “With the help of the MVP, now most of the communities are having safe drinking water, which has reduced diarrheal diseases and typhoid and other diseases related to poor hygiene,” she says. Gross was also able to witness a birth in a local health clinic. MVP’s health director, Sonia Sachs, had implemented several procedures that made the process safer for mothers and infants, drastically reducing mortality rates surrounding childbirth.

“[Sachs] was able implement simple procedures to quickly save a newborn’s life within moments of being born by clearing the nasal and chest cavity. An emphasis was placed on decreasing maternal mortality as well, and the rates have dropped exponentially. To see expecting mothers receive an ultrasound in Bonsasso was truly amazing. I’m thrilled with the updated technology at hand in the clinics,” says Gross. “Witnessing a healthy birth was an incredible moment of actualization of the work of the project and also hope for what will come in the future in this region.”

Bonsasso has made tremendous improvements in other areas, as well, including agriculture. Prior to the MVP’s intervention, maize yields were approximately 2.2 tons per hectare; today, they’re at 4.5 tons. Schools are now connected to the electricity grid and feature gender-separate restrooms, and more than 200 kilometers (124 feet) of road has been repaired.

Photographer Ed Kashi approached his end of the documentary project by focusing on Nana Acheampong, a cocoa farmer, and his entire family. The family gave Gross and the documentary crew an inside look at the powerful effects of MVP’s scholarship program.

“I knew while we were documenting the project that they would not be continuing with the girls’ scholarship program after the project was done, so I felt an immense responsibility to help these girls continue without the project. The goal is to have the projects be sustainable at the end,” says Gross. Gross stays in touch with Hannah Obeng, a young woman whose educational journey she was able to sponsor, through Facebook.

“She is continually sending me love and blessings. I love seeing pictures of her dorm room, because I know then that she is focused on her studies, but I also enjoy seeing rich pictures of the friendships she is forming. It tells me her character is deepening as a result of this experience of being around other intelligent, thought provoking students,” says Gross. “The relationship reminds me a little bit of money a lot of heart can change someone’s entire life. Hannah is a true reflection of all the people I may not be able to directly meet or have a relationship with that Blue Chip has helped in Africa.”

Millennium Villages Project (MVP) team leader Samuel Dankwa has been able to monitor the success of the project, and he says MVP’s greatest contribution to Bonsasso has been its ability to take people out of a state of distress.

“There were people who lived like 3 months of the year without food of their own, and they would have to beg. There were lots of issues with agriculture and underproduction. There was no electricity; there was no telephone,” says Dankwa, adding that access to the areas was severely limited during most of the year. “There were lacks of the basic services; access to health, for example. There was just one midwife for 30,000 people. There was no medical doctor in this area.”

Kashi, who’s earned awards from World Press Photo, POYi, CommArts and American Photography, was there to document the final year of the Millennium Villages Project.

“I’ve always admired Ed Kashi’s work, so receiving hands on education from him in the field with him for a full week was a priceless experience. He was very efficient getting the video he needed to tell people’s stories in the village. He has complete understanding of his subjects and captures the most poignant shot that will evoke his viewers. This will come through his body of work for the book,” says Gross.

BCF and VII Association Document MVP Progress in Koraro, Ethiopia

Sun, 20 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: September 20,2015

Koraro, Ethiopia—Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross traveled to Koraro with VII Association photographer Ron Haviv to explore the progress Millennium Villages Project ( MVP ) was making within the community, including its initiatives to help residents diversify their income sources, reduce female dropout rates in schools, and promote access to clean water, irrigation and safe roads.

Haviv’s vision for documenting Koraro was to follow the cycle of life from birth through death, and the pair kicked off that journey by witnessing a birth in one of the area’s newly outfitted health clinics.

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Ensuring the Right to Education with Safe Dorm for Girls in Kenya

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: September 15, 2015

Blue Chip Foundation Partners with White Feather Foundation

Los Angeles—The Blue Chip Foundation, along with the White Feather Foundation, is proud to announce the completion of a girls’ dormitory designed to provide safe haven for girls attending the Uranga Secondary School in Sauri, Kenya.

The founders of each organization— Jennifer Stengaard Gross of the Blue Chip Foundation and Julian Lennon of the White Feather Foundation—first visited the school in February 2014 to assess the girls’ needs and find ways to contribute to the children’s educational aspirations. Gross and Lennon spoke with several scholarship students to determine where their help could be most beneficial when they learned that several of them had to walk up to 10 kilometers round-trip each day.

“The school was benefiting from working with Connect to Learn , a partnership of the Earth Institute of Columbia University , Ericsson, and Millennium Promise,” says Gross. “That organization’s mission is to address the lack of access to quality education in marginalized populations, and they’re having great success in academics. However, the challenge was getting the girls to and from the school safely so they could access the rigorous academic programs offered there.”

Several girls reported being mugged and assaulted during their commute to school, and expressed a desire for a dormitory where they could stay safe and focus on their education.

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Blue Chip Foundation Founder Jennifer Gross Visits Potou, Senegal | Millennium Development Goals

Sat, 22 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: August 22, 2015

Potou, Senegal— Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross and VII Association filmmaker Danny Wilcox Frazier visited Potou to document the Millennium Villages Project’s progress in the in August, focusing on a cluster of six villages in Senegal’s Niayes Zone. Gross’s group, which included Ousmane Mbaye and Nick Loomis of Millennium Promise and Gina Ackerman of the Earth Institute at Columbia University, was able to document tremendous progress within the area since the Millennium Villages Project ( MVP ) began its interventions.

“We saw nothing but progress in Potou,” says Jennifer Gross. “They’re using genetically modified seeds to grow onions, and everybody we talked to was having crops come up three or four times a year instead of one or two. All of the onions are healthy, and they’re selling nationally on a wide scale now in Senegal. It was awesome.”

Poor sanitation, including household refuse and industrial waste products, have created significant health risks for Potou’s population. Access to healthcare has traditionally been a challenge, so Gross, Frazier and the rest of the team traveled through the area with a community health worker to evaluate the new standards MVP was helping villagers meet.

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BCF Attends Symposium to Work on Sustainable Development Solutions

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

July 22, 2015

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City —The Blue Chip Foundation, attends Symposium represented by founder Jennifer Stengaard Gross , was part of a special symposium hosted by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Solutions Network July 22. The symposium’s goals: to eradicate poverty while protecting human dignity, reach a state of shared prosperity that involves decent, fair jobs for all, and protect the planet by slowing climate change.

Today, 50 percent of the world’s 7 billion people live in cities, and, by 2050, experts say that around 70 percent of the global population will live in urban environments. Cities are typically a hotbed of extreme deprivation and environmental degradation, despite approximately 75 percent of global economic activity originating in these areas. As the urban population grows, so will the urban share of global GDP and investments.

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Blue Chip Foundation Addresses Modern Slavery and Climate Change

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: July 21,2015

Addressing Modern Slavery and Human-Induced Climate Change

Synod Hall, Vatican City —The Blue Chip Foundation’s Initiative: Founder Jennifer Stengaard Gross represented the Blue Chip Foundation . Together with city mayors from around the world, they addressed two critical issues: modern slavery and human-induced climate change. Shockingly, more than 45.8 million people are trapped in some form of slavery, with 168 million children engaged in labor. The illegal profits from this exploitation amount to a staggering $150 billion annually. Pope Francis has consistently called for communities to reject all forms of human slavery. Additionally, the foundation recognizes that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, and they are committed to taking steps to mitigate the damage already done.

City Mayors’ Declaration: Mayors from various countries—including Croatia, Jamaica, Italy, Brazil, the U.S., Canada, Nigeria, and France—came together to issue a joint declaration. In this core moral space, cities play a vital role. They uphold the inherent dignity and social responsibility of every individual, emphasizing the common good of all humanity. Furthermore, they appreciate the beauty and wonder of the natural world, recognizing it as a precious gift entrusted to our common care. Their commitment is clear: stewardship over ravaging. They aim to create socially inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban settlements.

Sustainability at the City Level: Jennifer Gross expressed newfound respect for mayors’ enthusiasm toward ethical solutions. She believes that true sustainability can only be achieved city by city because national governments often fall short. The group of mayors pledged to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of modern slavery, considering them crimes against humanity. Their collective goal is to transform cities and urban settlements into socially inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable environments.

Cities and Climate Change: Approximately 60% of the global population lives in cities. These urban centers are responsible for about 70-80% of global energy production. However, they are also the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. For instance, the Berlin Senate has set an ambitious goal: to make the city climate neutral by 2050. Berlin recognizes its responsibility as a European capital and aims to be a frontrunner in climate protection and energy policy.

Governor Brown’s Perspective: California Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr., emphasized the urgency of addressing both climate change and human exploitation. He sees this unprecedented gathering of global leaders as a wake-up call. It’s about the future of humanity—how we live, treat one another, and care for the natural world. The stakes are high, and the need for action is clear.

This event underscores the critical role that cities play in shaping a sustainable and just future for all.

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BCF at Financing for Sustainable Development Conference in Addis Ababa

Thu, 16 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: July 16, 2015

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia— Blue Chip Foundation’s Jennifer Gross participated in the Financing for Sustainable Development Conference in Addis Ababa from July, where world leaders agreed on an economic framework to support the sustainable development agenda.

“At the Addis Financing for Development summit, a number of developing countries and civil society organizations demanded an intergovernmental UN-based tax body. Unfortunately, this effort was blocked by a number of OECD governments” said Gross. “This idea really should be revisited as we need a global approach to taxation. Corporate tax reforms could eliminate tax evasion, which is costing the global economy more than $600 billion annually. To achieve the reforms, we need to shift the power to the U.N. Tax Commission and expand it.”

If wealthy countries would honor commitments they each made in 1970 to provide 0.7 percent of their GDPs for Official Development Assistance, all of the sustainable development goals would have adequate funding.

The problem: None are doing so.

“This could not only finance the education gap, but could cover what is needed for all the SDGs ,” says Gross. “The Education Commission lets the wealthy countries off the hook, asking only for 0.5 percent, and this isn’t reached until 2030. The problem is that we need it now. The population boom that is going to happen poverty stricken areas is overwhelming, and if we don’t have systems in place to meet the growing needs of these areas, the results will be catastrophic.”

Many critics of the agreement say nothing will change.

“It was a painful moment to see the developed countries celebrating the fact that nothing will change,” said Tove Maria Ryding, policy and advocacy manager for tax justice at the European Network on Debt and Development. “This sets a terrible precedent for the post-2015 and climate negotiations.” Ryding had advocated for and championed proposals for a new global tax body that would pick up the slack by eliminating tax evasion.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said that the framework was progress.

“This agreement is a critical step forward in building a sustainable future for all. It provides a global framework for financing sustainable development. The results here in Addis Ababa give us the foundation of a revitalized global partnership for sustainable development that will
leave no one behind,” the Secretary General said.

Amina J. Mohammed, special adviser to the UN Secretary General, says that the accord “changed the equation on development” and that there are still ways to work toward a more equitable agreement.

“Do we have enough doors open on every issue that we wanted? I think we do. Are they wide enough? No. We still have to fight the good fight, that’s the way the world works,” said Mohammed.

Exploring Moral Dimensions of Climate Change and Sustainable Development

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: April 28, 2015

Moral Dimensions Of Climate Change and

Sustainable Development

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City— Blue Chip Foundation , represented by Jennifer Stengaard Gross , participated in the Protect the Earth, Dignify Humanity Summit at the Vatican, where a diverse group of Vatican officials, scientists, business professionals, diplomats, religious leaders, and academicians gathered to explore the moral dimensions of climate change and sustainable development. The summit, held at Casina Pio IV in Vatican City from April 28, featured discussions on the moral imperative of addressing climate change and the inherent dignity of all individuals. The group issued a joint statement affirming these principles and called for new incentives to transition to low-carbon energy, as well as a shift from military spending to sustainable development. The participants committed to doing everything possible to mitigate climate change and protect the future for children.

Pope Francis’s encyclical on the environment was highlighted as a significant document with the potential to create a global impact, extending far beyond Catholicism. The summit was attended by a wide range of participants, including some climate change-deniers who were escorted out of the building. The joint statement issued by the group emphasized that human-induced climate change is a scientific reality and its mitigation is a moral and religious imperative. It also affirmed the inherent dignity of every individual and the beauty, wonder, and goodness of the natural world, recognizing it as a precious gift entrusted to our common care.

The summit underscored the world’s ability to mitigate climate change and end extreme poverty through sustainable development solutions. The upcoming climate summit in Paris was noted as a critical opportunity to keep human-caused climate change below 2 degrees Celsius and avoid devastating effects. The summit called for new incentives for transitioning to low-carbon energy and the relentless pursuit of peace, which could lead to a significant shift from military spending to sustainable development. Participants committed to doing everything they can and encouraged others to join in these efforts.

Overall, the summit recognized the connection between respect for the environment and the dignity of each individual, particularly the poor and those on the fringes of society. This recognition underscores the moral responsibility to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of all people.

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Blue Chip Foundation Attends African Union Summit

Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

News: January, 2015

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia— Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross represented her organization at the 24th Annual African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, where Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe was appointed the new chairman of the 54-nation African Union despite controversy among other members. In addition to Mugabe’s appointment, leaders declared 2015 the Year of Women’s Empowerment.

“Blue Chip Foundation attended the African Union Summit to continue our work on strengthening the financial sectors within Africa and internationally to help finance Africa's rapid upgrading of infrastructure. Our plan, along with Sustainable Development Solutions Network is to support the Africa Development Bank, work closely with China, Japan, and others on international development banking, and help African cities to start to build municipal financial markets,” said Gross. “Our hope is that we can use the upcoming AU Summit to help build a clear, shared vision in Africa on how to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals . The SDSN , through the new Kigali-based SDG Center for Africa, will also issue a report next spring to build confidence and consensus in African markets.”

Economic growth and the alleviation of poverty are impossible unless all the SDGs are achieved, and Goal 5 – gender equality – must be fulfilled as economic growth continues; that’s perfectly aligned with the Year of Women’s Empowerment.

“Educating women is one of the most important factors in lifting a community out of poverty. We are making great strides, but we have more work to do in this area,” says Gross.

Gross’s work has taken great strides.

“ Blue Chip Foundation and Julian Lennon’s White Feather Foundation have worked on the ground to help girls in Sauri, a Millennium Village in Kenya,” says Gross. After hearing stories of one of the girls walking to school for two hours and being raped on the journey there, Julian and I decided to build the girls a dormitory. The girls are able to focus exclusively on their school work at the dormitory, whereas at home, they were responsible for most of the household duties while their brothers were free to study.”

The gender gap, according to Ngone Diop, Chief of Gender at UNECA, costs Africa about $255 billion each year.

“We need to understand that it is not a favor to women, but it’s their right. And, it is not only a right, but it is the right and smart thing to do,” says Diop.

Ideally, individual governments will foster the empowerment of women through new initiatives being implemented by organizations like Blue Chip Foundation.

“Blue Chip Foundation is passionate about the empowerment of women in Africa. We are continually seeking out new initiatives that fulfill the need and current drive to bring more equality to women in the workforce, in the community, and in the home environments,” says Gross.

Religious Leaders & Philanthropists Against Modern Slavery

Tue, 02 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

December 2, 2014

Casina Pio IV, Vatican City —Pope Francis gathered with a number of global religious leaders on Dec. 2 to address modern slavery, an issue that affects every nation in the world. Organized by the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the group came together to issue a joint statement which was signed by religious leaders and development practitioners, including Blue Chip Foundation’s Jennifer Stengaard Gross , reaffirming each party’s commitment to usher in a new era of freedom for those who are currently enslaved and trafficked.

In his opening statement, Pope Francis strongly condemned exploitation.

“The physical, economic, sexual and psychological exploitation of men and women, boys and girls, currently holds tens of millions in inhumane and humiliating bondage,” His Holiness said. “Every human being—man, woman, boy and girl—is the image of God; God, who is love and freedom, gives himself through interpersonal relations; therefore, every human being is a free person, destined to live for the good of others in equality and brotherhood.”

The Pope called on communities, people of all faiths, businesses, and governments to support the fight against modern slavery in all its forms.

Gross pointed out that “Victims of exploitation are from all walks of life—but that typically they’re the poorest and the most vulnerable. It’s an atrocity that modern slavery is a form of tourism and an acceptable custom, so I’m honored to sign this declaration with these leaders today.”

Each party present signed the declaration, which reads, “We pledge ourselves here today to do all in our power, within our faith communities and beyond, to work together for the freedom of all those who are enslaved and trafficked so that their future may be restored. Today we have the opportunity, awareness, wisdom, innovation and technology to achieve this human and moral imperative.”

SDSN delivers message to Leaders on the threat of Climate Change

Tue, 23 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

New York, New York – September 23, 2014: When the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) met in Beijing, China, to determine what recommendations to issue regarding climate change, tensions were high amongst the present members of the scientific community. Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross was there to witness the passionate debate regarding where to set the temperature increase limit and the reasoned arguments on every side. Following is the statement released by SDSN later that year that integrated the decisions made during that spring meeting and released just before the General Assembly meets at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in September, 2014. It is presented here in its entirety, as it is crucially important.

A Message on Climate Change to World Leaders
Human-induced climate change is an issue beyond politics. It transcends parties, nations, and even generations. For the first time in human history, the very health of the planet, and therefore the bases for future economic development, the end of poverty, and human wellbeing, are in the balance. If we were facing an imminent threat from beyond Earth, there is no doubt that humanity would immediately unite in common cause. The fact that the threat comes from within – indeed from ourselves – and that it develops over an extended period of time does not alter the urgency of cooperation and decisive action.

The world has agreed to limit the mean temperature increase to less than 2-degrees Centigrade (2°C). Even a 2°C increase will carry us to dangerous and unprecedented conditions not seen on Earth during the entire period of human civilization. Various physical feedbacks – in the Arctic, the oceans, the rainforests, and the tundra – could multiply a 2°C temperature increase into vastly higher temperatures and climate
disruption. For this reason many scientists and some countries advocate for 1.5°C or even stricter targets.

To give up on the 2°C limit, on the other hand, would be reckless and foolish. We would abandon our remaining chance to stay within a safe operating space for humanity and that of millions of other species. By holding the 2°C limit, we would retain the global option to adopt an even more stringent emission reduction limit in line with evolving scientific knowledge and technological capacities.

The 2°C limit, or an even stronger target, can be met through long-term national strategies and concerted global cooperation. All countries must commit to a deep decarbonization of their energy systems, shifting from high-carbon energy (coal, oil, and natural gas) to low-carbon energy of various kinds (e.g. wind, solar, nuclear, carbon capture and sequestration, known as CCS). Low-carbon electricity plus massive gains in energy efficiency and the electrification of vehicles, heating and cooling systems of commercial as well as residential buildings can lead to a dramatic
reduction of carbon-dioxide emissions alongside a growing economy. Changes in lifestyle patterns and urban planning can make another important contribution. The many co-benefits of decarbonization with the deployment of sustainable energy, information and communication technologies will include cleaner air and water, enhanced biodiversity, and security of domestic renewable energy resources. Targeted efforts are also required to decarbonize key industries. Finally, countries need to curb greenhouse gas emissions resulting from agriculture, livestock, and land-use change, such as deforestation. They must also manage and restore ecosystems to ensure they can serve as a significant net sink for greenhouse gas emissions.

The technological transition during the first half of the 21st century is within reach, especially in light of massive advances in knowhow in recent years. In many parts of the world and in some contexts, solar and wind power are already at “grid parity.” Large-scale deployment of electric vehicles, carbon-capture and sequestration, next- generation nuclear power plants for those countries deploying nuclear power, and
other low-carbon energy technologies are all within reach. They can be pushed to commercial readiness and large-scale deployment through concerted public and private programs of research, development, demonstration, and diffusion (RDD&D) on a global scale.

We have nearly exhausted the Earth’s carbon budget, which measures the cumulative emissions of CO2 that will likely keep the planet within the 2°C limit. Only through a drastic reduction of carbon emissions between now and 2050, en route to a zero-net emission economy in the second half of the century, can we meet the challenge of remaining below 2°C. Yet, deep decarbonization can be accomplished. As President John F. Kennedy said a half-century ago, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but
because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills ...”

In our time, humanity again must choose, this time to save our planet from shortsightedness, greed, and apathy to avoid catastrophic climate change. This time too, we must organize and measure the best of our energies and skills to stay within 2°C. We call upon you, world leaders, to recognize the gravity of the situation, and to call upon all of us to rise to the occasion. We owe nothing less to ourselves, to future generations, and to Earth itself.

Founding Signatories:
(* denotes members of the SDSN Leadership Council)
Irene Agyepong, Regional Director, Health for Greater Accra*
HSH Prince Albert II, Head of State, Monaco*
Muskdad A. Al-Khateeb, Head, Department of Sustainable Development,
Environment Research Center, University of Technology, Baghdad François Anctil,

Directeur, Institut Hydro-Quebec en Environnement,
Développement et Société

Muhammad Hasan Ali Baig, Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Laboratory (HRS),
Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth (RADI)

Belay Begashaw, Director, Columbia Global Center, Nairobi*
Frances Beinecke, President, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)* Joseph
Bell, Hogan Lovells, Washington*

David Berry, Founder, Joule Unlimited*
Gianluca Breghi, Managing Director, Fondazione Achille Sclavo Carlo Carraro,
Rector, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice
Joshua Castellino, Dean, Law School, University of Middlesex* Maurizio Cellura, Full
Professor, Dipartimento di Energi, Ingegneria
dell’Informazione e Modelli Matematici (DEIM), University of Palermo Madhav
Chavan, Co-founder and CE-President, Pratham, India*
Patrick Criqui, Head of EDDEN Research Group, CNRS-University of Grenoble
Sir Partha Dasgupta, Professor Emeritus, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
Leclère Diffo, President, Green Horizon Cameroon

Bineta Diop, President, Femmes Africa Solidarité*

Achim Dobermann, Director, Rothamsted Research*
May East, Chief Executive, CIFAL Scotland
Kokunre Eghafona, Sustainable Development Desk Officer, University of Benin,
Benin City, Nigeria
José María Figueres, CEO, Carbon War Room*

Maria Freire, President and Executive Director of the Foundation for the National
Institutes of Health (FNIH)*
Michael Gerrard, Professor, Columbia University Law School
Jennifer Gross , Member of the Board, Gross Family Foundation
Zakri Abdul Hamid, Chair, International Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and
Ecosystem Services (IPBES)*
James Hansen, Former Director, NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies* Tom
Heller, Executive Director, Climate Policy Initiative*
Feyera Dinsa Hundessa, Director, Academic Programs Development and
Admissions, Haramaya University
Ivano Iannelli, CEO, Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence
PavelKabat , Director, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis
(IIASA)*
Joan Kaufman, Director. Columbia Global Centers East Asia
Geoffrey Kent, Founder, Chairman and CEO, Abercrombie & Kent Group of
Companies*
Niclas Kjellström-Matseke, Managing Director, Novamedia Swedish Postcode

Lottery*
Israel Klabin, Founder and Executive Director, Brazilian Foundation for Sustainable
Development*
Felipe Larraín, Director, Centro Latinoamericano de Políticas Económicas y Sociales

(CLAPES-UC)*
Richard Layard, Director. Well-Being Programme Centre for Economic Performance
London School of Economics*
Frannie Léautier, Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Mkoba Private Equity Fund*

Yuan Lee, Former President, Academia Sinica and Nobel Prize Laureate*

Klaus Leisinger, President, Stiftung Globale Werte Allianz*
Gordon Liu, Director, Peking University China Center for Health Economic Research
(CCHER)*
Jane Lubchenco, Oregon State University, Corvallis*
Soren Winther Lundby, CEO, GlobalCitizen
Arun Majumdar, Energy Initiatives Lead, Google Inc*
Michael Mann, Professor and Director of the Earth System Science Center,
Pennsylvania State University
Julia Marton-Lefèvre, Director General, IUCN*

Dirk Messner, Director, German Development Institute
Chiara Mio, Rector’s Delegate on Environmental Sustainability and University Social
Responsibity, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice
Angus D. Munro, Vice-President, Research, Development and Policy, University of
Cambodia
ShahidNaeem, Director, Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability*
Claude Nahon, Executive Vice President for Sustainable Development, EDF* Rebecca
Nelson, Professor. Cornell University*
Tolera Negassa, Teacher Development Program Coordinator, Adama Science and
Technology University
Cherie Nursalim, Executive Director, GITI Group*
Ikenna Onyido, Founder and Director, Centre for Sustainable Development, Nnamdi
Azikiwe University, Nigeria*
Mari Pangestu, Minister of Tourism and Creative Industries, Indonesia*
George Papandreou, Former Prime Minister, Greece*
Alberto Posso, Senior Lecturer Economics, RMIT
Ketut Gede Dharma Putra, Chairman, Center for Sustainable Development Udayana
University of Bali
V (Ram) Ramanathan, Professor, SCRIPPS Institution of Oceanography, UCSD,
California
Rino Rappuoli, Global Head, R&D Novartis Vaccines and President, Fondazione
Achille Sclavo
Srinath Reddy, President and Executive Director, Public Health Foundation of India*
Irwin Redlener, Director, National Center for Disaster Preparedness, Earth Institute,
Columbia University
Aromar Revi, Director, Indian Institute for Human Settlements*
Angelo Riccaboni, Rector, University of Siena, Italy*
Johan Rockström, Executive Director, Stockholm Resilience Center*

Cynthia Rosenzweig, Professor, Earth Institute, Columbia University*
Angelo Antonio Russo, Director, PHD Program in Economics and Management of
Natural Resources and Associate Professor of Management, LUM University Roberto
Russo, President, International Federation for Sustainable Development
and Fight to Poverty in the Mediterrranean-Black Sea, FISPMED
Jeffrey Sayer, Director, Development Practice Programme, James Cook University
Jeffrey D. Sachs, Director, Earth Institute, Columbia University Director of the SDSN*

Marcello Scalisi, Executive Director, UNIMED-Mediterranean Universities Union
Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, Director, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
(PIK)
Josette Sheeran, President, Asia Society*
Will Steffen, Adjunct Professor, Fenner School of Environment and Society, The
Australian University
Lord Nicholas Stern, IG Patel Professor, Chair of Grantham Institute, London School
of Economics
Pavan Sukhdev, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, GIST Advisory*
Jatna Supriatna, Chairman, University of Indonesia Research Center of Climate
Change
John Thwaites, Chair, Monash Sustainability Institute*
Jean-Phiippe Thomas, Executive Secretariat, ENDA Tiers Monde
Lena Trenschow-Torell, Chairman, MISTRA*
Laurence Tubiana, Professor, Sciences Po (Paris) and Columbia University, Co-Chair
of the SDSN Leadership Council*
Ted Turner, Chairman, Turner Foundation, Inc. and Turner Enterprises Inc.* Auwalu
Uba, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
Hans Vestberg, President and CEO, Ericsson Group*
Virgilio Viana, Director General, Amazonas Sustainability Foundation*
Martin Visbeck, Chair in Physical Oceanography, GEOMAR - Helmholtz Centre for
Ocean Research Kiel & Kiel University*
Robert Watson, former Chair of the IPCC
Daniel Wiener, Chairman, Global Infrastructure Basel Foundation
E.O. Wilson, Emeritus, Harvard University
Xue Lan, Professor and Dean, School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua
University, Co-Chair of the SDSN Leadership Council*
Hirokazu Yoshikawa, Professor, New York University*
Soogil Young, Professor, KDI School of Public Policy and Management* Hania Zlotnik,
Former Director, UN Population Division*

BCF and Julian Lennon Open charity: water Well in Gobi, Ethiopia

Sat, 15 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

February 2014

Gobi, Ethiopia— Jennifer Gross , from Blue Chip Foundation and musician-philanthropist Julian Lennon, from White Feather Foundation , traveled with charity: water to Gobi, Ethiopia to participate in the opening of a new well in the poverty-stricken community.

The organization funds programs in 24 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Central America and South America to provide rural communities with their first access to clean, safe water. The organization uses 100 percent of all public donations to fund water projects and makes GPS coordinates available to show where every dollar goes. As of now, charity: water has funded 23,377 water projects to provide 7,128,152 people with clean water.

Founder of charity: water Scott Harrison, invited Gross and Lennon to explore the foundation’s operations in Ethiopia. Angela Ahrendts, then-CEO of Burberry and current senior vice president of Apple’s retail division, was also there to open a well she’d funded through a campaign; that was Gross’s inspiration to raise funds for another well shortly after the trip.

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Blue Chip Foundation Visits Mayange, Rwanda for MVP Documentary

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mayange, Rwanda— Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross made her second trip to Rwanda to document the Millennium Villages Project with VII Association photographer Gary Knight and his wife, videographer Fiona Turner.

“Because MVP is a holistic approach to alleviating poverty, it takes time and perspective to discern the magnitude of all of the moving parts that make up this economic model. We were able to document progress in health care, education, infrastructure and agriculture,” said Gross.
Mayange suffers from declining soil fertility and only sporadic rainfall, which puts its entire population at a disadvantage.

“Unlike most of rural Rwanda, where individual homesteads are scattered across the hilly landscape, Mayange has several umudugudus, or settlements, of closely spaced dwellings, which the government built to house returnees after the 1994 genocide,” according to Millennium Villages Project ( MVP ). Gross, Knight, and Turner observed and documented several improvements to the community emplaced by MVP.

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bluechip

Unmasking Inequality: How COVID-19 Exacerbates Health Disparities for Black Americans

Black Americans are dying of COVID-19 at three times the rate of non-Hispanic White Americans (1) .

Race is the number one indicator for the placement of toxic facilities in the US (4) .

African Americans are almost three times more likely to die from asthma-related causes than non-Hispanic White Americans (6).

Black Americans remained 1.5 times more likely to be uninsured than White Americans from 2010 to 2018 (9) .

African-American women are three times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women, and the African-American infant mortality rate is twice the rate for white infants (11) .

Racial and ethnic minorities receive lower-quality health care than white people — even when insurance status, income, age, and severity of conditions are comparable (12) .

A recent study randomly assigned 1,300 African-Americans to Black or non-Black primary care physicians. Those who saw Black doctors received 34 percent more preventive services (13) .

Under Medicaid expansion, Black Americans saw a 9% drop in uninsured population numbers, though the insured population remains low compared to non-Hispanic White populations (14) .

SYSTEMS CHECK

by Peter Stengaard

Systems Check by Peter Stengaard

Note From the Founders

Jenn and Peter

Note From The Founders

Summit of African Women Judges on Human Trafficking & Organized Crime

Vatican City, December 13th, 2019

Click Here to Read More

The 30th Anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

Casina Pio, IV//Vatican City//November 14-15, 2019

A Note from Jennifer Gross

﻿

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2020 World Happiness Report

Potential of Corporations & Foundations together at Vatican Conference

Instead of pitting everyday citizens against billionaires and corporations, she urges unity and cohesion.

The Seventh World Happiness Report, Released 2019 - A Landmark Survey

This is the 7th World Happiness Report.

Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine

June 3rd & June 4th 2019

The Pan-American Judges’ Summit on Social Rights and Franciscan Doctrine

Who Cares - The Anti-Bullying Campaign

Blue Chip Foundation: Ethics in Action and Indigenous Peoples

Summit of African Women: Human Trafficking and Organized Crime

Ethics in Action Online Course

Ethics in Action Online Course Launching in September 2019

Get on the Bus! Traveling Education Exhibit

New York—Blue Chip Foundation , in partnership with Generation Human Rights, The VII Foundation , and United Photo Industries has launched Get on the Bus!, a traveling education exhibit powered by the lessons learned from the Millennium Villages Project (MVP).

Paul McCartney, Emma Stone Take Aim at Bullying With ‘Who Cares’ Short

December 17, 2018

Modern Slavery

March 13, 2018

Women From Millennium Villages Project Becoming Businesswomen

March 8, 2018

UN chief reform ‘put Member States in driver’s seat’

Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)

Stakeholders and Collaboration Providing support and guidance to a diverse range of stakeholders including:

World Wildlife Fund

For 50 years, World Wildlife Fund has been protecting the future of nature.

World Childhood Foundation

All children have a right to a childhood, to safety, happiness, playfulness, and curiosity in life.

World Childhood Foundation works to prevent abuse and exploitation of children. They support and implement over 100 projects around the world, assisting children who are at risk of or are victims of abuse, children who are in alternative care, street children, and families at risk.

The Humane Society

The nation’s most effective animal protection organization.

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest and most effective animal protection organization.

Stray Cat Alliance

Building a No Kill Nation, One Stray Cat at a Time with the Stray Cat Alliance.

Special Olympics

Special Olympics transforms lives through the joy of sport, every day, everywhere.

Mercy Ships

Brining hope and healing to the world’s poor for over 38 years.

Mercy for Animals

Inspiring Compassion. Ending Cruelty.

Mercy For Animals is dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices and policies.

Heroes Project

CURA

CURA Orphanage where hope has a place to grow.

Connect to Learn

Educate a girl, change the world

ROCK YOUR WORLD

Inspiring students to change our world

Charity: Water

Bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations

The VII Foundation

The VII Foundation: Documentary Filmmaking for Social Impact

Advancing Advocacy Through Documentary Work

Collaboration for Social Change

Inspiring a New Generation of Changemakers

SDG USA

Black Americans are dying of COVID-19
at three times the rate of

non-Hispanic White Americans (1) .

Stakeholders and Collaboration

Providing support and guidance to a diverse range of stakeholders including: