Hi and welcome to our 13th newsletter.
Our last newsletter's theme was hope. That theme continues here.
That hope continues from the excitement of further clarifying our role in the cause of ending hunger. We wish to share with you our sharpened vision and further rally your ever-increasing support to bring that vision to fruition.
On June 3, 2004 the National Anti-Hunger Organizations (NAHO) published 'A Blueprint to End Hunger' (http://www.bread.org/institute/millennium_declaration.htm). This working document is based on the principles outlined in the Millennium Declaration to End Hunger in America. It outlines what steps are needed to make ending hunger in America a reality. Accompanying the Blueprint release was a letter signed by the heads of NAHO. In that letter, paraphrased here, they have put out a call to action stating "we are issuing a call to action to every segment of our society to mobilize and work to make the vision of a hunger free America a reality. Please help us advance this agenda by taking responsibility to help move forward these solutions."
What we're suggesting is this; we begin taking our unique '1 of 52' method of organizing up to new levels while focusing attention on what the NAHO needs to make their plan happen. Our proven method of organizing activists on a grassroots level can help answer the NAHO call to action by continually working 'to mobilize every segment of our society' through our methodical '1 of 52' organization. They have the final plan, we can answer their call by contributing massive awareness, involvement and support from the public.
How do we help supply that? For those reading this information for the first time, a brief explanation of the '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network Concept: For over 16 years now, we have been forming a network of a minimum of 52 artists in each state, each artist representing one week of the year, who agree to take a minimum of one action annually to help end hunger. This method of organization creates a permanent network of activists who are united with other network members bringing strength in numbers. This method of organization creates a sustained, momentum-building infrastructure. It is our experience that in addition to the direct actions these artists take, they are also inspiring a legion of fans.
While learning about the NAHO's Blueprint, you'll also learn more about Bread for the World's 'One' Campaign (one.org) that is championed by Bono and emphasizes the power of the individual. Please consider joining the 'One' Campaign which, of course, would continue and enrich your participation in the '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network. PS: Congratulation to '1 of 52' members Small Planet Band who were recently chosen to perform at the Bread for the World 'One Table, Many Voices' conference in Washington DC.
As we continue outreach with the help of many individuals and organizations such as the URI Feinstein Center for a Hunger Free America, we are constantly examining and re-inventing our methods, which brings us to our next exciting piece of news. We are expanding the scope '1 of 52' concept that opens the invitation to participate to people from all walks of life, while narrowing focus to the community level. We have begun a model network in South Kingstown, RI and have already spawned '1 of 52' Chapters in four other communities.
The '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network will continue to spread the word on a state-by-state level, while '1 of 52' Network for Hunger Free Communities will grow on a community-by-community level.
The two networks will certainly overlap and intertwine as is the case this coming Saturday, June 18th when '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network members Sugar Ray and the Bluetones perform at ' 1 of 52' for Hunger Free Community member, the Courthouse Center for the Arts, hosts a food drive at this concert in support of the South Kingstown Jonnycake Center's food pantry. Visit courthousearts.org for concert details.
Also on June 18th, 11am to 9pm there's a River Sing Performance Designated as a '1 of 52' Hunger Network Event On, River Sing on the Blackstone featuring performances by dozens of artists on 8 stages. One of those stages is the Rhode Island Community Food Bank stage where hunger activist Chuck Smith will be performing and encouraging others to join him in 'Singing Out For Food"! Musicians are invited to sign up for a short set and consider joining the movement to end hunger while 'singing out for food' as part of the '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network. Sign-up time for the Open Mic stage is 11 to 11:45 am. The event is held at Slater Mill in Pawtucket from Noon to Dusk. This is a free event. Non-perishable food donations are welcome. For details, go to tourblackstone.com/riversing.htm.
On Thursday, June 16th, 7 to 11pm, new ' 1o f 52' members ProVisions Ltd presents Circus Circus - The 3rd Annual Masquerade Lingerie Ball & Fashion Show, Roger Williams Park Casino. Cirque Acts, Scorching Fashion Show, Fabulous Food, Delectable Drinks and more surprises. Advance Tix $50, at door $75. A 21+ event, Cash bar Proceeds to benefit Meals on Wheels, Crossroads RI, Project Aids RIO, Bell Street Chapel, Amos House. Presented by ProVisions United - Uniting to End Hunger. Contact 401-383-8778 for details.
Please continue to send your event information for us to post and don't hesitate to call with further ideas you may have to proliferate the network.
Peace,
Steve Maciel
PS: Visit www.feinsteinfoundation.org to learn how to maximize
your donations.