Our Mission:
To unite mass grassroots action through a simple network to maximize existing hunger organizations.
'1 of 52' Frequently Asked Questions
Is hunger really a problem today?
In America alone, there are 13 million families
who suffer from food insecurity. (USDA stats are from recent US Census circa
2007 - current numbers would be staggering.)
How will this plan help end hunger?
Our plan is based around a basic 'strength in numbers' concept by uniting
a minimum of 52 musicians, artists*, organizations, businesses and everyday
people, each representing one week of the year, who take a minimum of one
action annually to help end hunger. This is an 'umbrella' organization working
to increase the effectiveness of local support for existing hunger agencies
by bringing constant attention and action to them.
*Special Note: Much of our focus is based within the arts
because the arts create a place in - the heart of - the community
where caring folks tend to gather - often with action in mind.
Who benefits?
Anyone who participates donates 100% of all actions / proceeds directly
to the their hunger agency of choice. (When asked, we suggest Feeding
America (formerly America's Second Harvest) and their national network
of food banks including the Rhode Island
Community Food Bank and The
Feinstein End Hunger Fund.)
Who can participate?
Any musician, artists, individual, group, association, business can utalize
their own special talents to participate in some way.
Is there a cost to participate?
We charge no fee or dues. The only expense to you is how you choose to participate.
There are many ways to take action with no out of pocket expense.
What is the purpose of the '1 of 52' method of organization?
To network with a simple, grassroots method to make individual actions connected
and cumulative.
What is the '1 of 52' Concept?
To network a minimum of 52 artists in each state, each representing one
week of the year, who take action annually to help end hunger. In this way,
we have consistent, cumulative, permanent action towards the goal of ending
hunger.
What if I'm already taking action annually?
Simply consider adding your name and actions to
our growing national roster. We are organizing on two levels: 1st, brining
together those who already take annual action creating an umbrella organization
that fosters 'Strength in Numbers'. 2nd, Providing the means for others
who would like to help, but have never been invited or not sure what to
do.
How does the member's participation have an effect on hunger?
The answer is twofold: 1) By the direct actions they take such as supporting
food banks. 2) By the inspiring a groundswell of public interest and involvement.
How do we know this plan will work?
It's already working. We have a model program up and running in RI with
52 weeks of the year accounted for. Plus we have chapters started in 22
other states. We've been positively impacting food organizations for over
20 years.
How is this plan any different than others?
It's not a matter of difference. This program is inclusive of
any and all other hunger program as an 'umbrella' organization.
Why must we do it?
Its obvious the problem persists inspite of all efforts to date. The solution
is going to have to come 'from the ground up'. Collectively, we, the people,
have the resources and the influence (hence the responsibility) to help
bring about the changes needed to provide basic nutrition for all Americans.
Why would we not do it?
As an Artist, If we contribute proceeds from a show, what about affiliates
such as managers or agents?
We ask that you contribute only from proceeds that 'trickle down' to
you. This makes the decision to participate your's only.
How do we get an assigned week?
You decide what week you can take your first action. That is then your
week in your state.
Does it always have to be the same week annually?
The week assignment is largely symbolic. YOU are '1 of 52'. Your action
does not necessarily have to occur during the exact week all the time, as
long as a minimum of one action is taken annually to represent your designated
week. Some members have used specific events that are meaningful to them
such as anniversaries, loved one's birthdays or holidays.
What if more than 52 sign up in a state?
We're seeking to start state-wide chapters with a minimum of 52.
One we reaches the 'Tipping Point' of 52, we'll start breaking out into
individual communities, spreading the network.
Will someone contact us every year?
Ideally, no. In order for us to facilitate with as little overhead as
possible please choose a way to remind yourself annually of your 1 of 52
week. We will keep everyone updated through our website and newsletter.
What if we decide we can't participate anymore?
If you decide, for whatever reason, that you can no longer participate,
we ask that you help us find a replacement for your week of the year in
your state. This helps insure the program will self sustain.
What are there benefits to participating?
Are there other aspects of this plan?
The 1 of 52 concept is actually the main focus
of the Hunger Network. It is the frame work from which springs forth other
ambitious projects in the works, i.e.: A series of Compilation Albums, Blueprint
Publications, Staged Events, Media Placement, Merchandising, etc. Stay tuned!
Is this plan limited to America?
America is our first target area because there is a problem here that: A)
Shouldn't exist and can be cured through persistent actions and B) Is under
our immediate control. We are simultaneously arranging to spread the concept
into other countries since this plan can easily translate anywhere.
Who else is involved?
See 1 of 52 Roster.
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