12/15/03
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
'1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network Concept Goes Global
PROVIDENCE, RI: The '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network proudly announces world-renowned musician Al Copley as its first International member. Originally from Westerly, RI, Al now resides in Brussels, Belgium and regularly performs benefit concerts to help those in need. Al consistently donates his talents to make a difference including a recent performance of his UNICEF song "Come Make a Little Step of Peace" at the 50th birthday party for UNICEF in Cologne, Germany. Al has recently added his name and actions to the '1 of 52 Artist Hunger Network. This marks the first of eventually 52 other artists in Europe, each representing one week of the year, who take action annually to help end hunger. The creation of a '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network chapter in Europe translates the concept globally.
The Network is a simple method of organization founded in 1996 by Rhode Island USA resident Steve Maciel. According to Maciel, "We started the movement to create weekly, consistent action to help capitalize existing hunger organizations such as America's Second Harvest and their national network of food banks. Hunger is a persistent problem and needs long term solutions. We feel musicians and all artists have a great influence on how people act and think toward hunger and poverty and can help effect social change over time. We continually strive to inspire public involvement through the actions these artists take. "
"We designed this so any artist can easily participate. It's based on a unique, easy to follow method of organization. Since there are 52 weeks in the year, we're enlisting a minimum of 52 artists in each state or country, each artist representing one week of the year, who take action annually to help end hunger. This method brings consistent action directly into local communities where it's sorely needed. Artists can become involved at any level and can participate in any number of ways. Some hold food drives and solicit contributions at their shows, others have staged major events. Since it's an ongoing program, artists can start where they feel comfortable and evolve their actions. 100% of the contribution artists generate goes directly to the hunger agency of their choice.
We are organizing the program on two levels. First, as an 'umbrella' organization that networks artists, businesses and individuals already taking annual action. These entities are now all linked and sharing to cause 'strength in numbers'. And secondly, creating the method for others who would like to help annually. The program is set up to self perpetuate by asking member artists to take their own actions - and to build a legacy by asking members to help replace themselves in the event they can no longer participate. The network has a successful model program up and running in Rhode Island, USA and has started '1 of 52' Chapters in 19 states plus Washington, DC - and with the addition of Mr. Copley - has now taken an international leap! Due to the simple nature of the concept, '1 of 52' Chapters can be started in any area of the world, as we have now proven. I'm am especially happy to foster the wonderful connection that has always existed between musicians and their desire to eradicate hunger and poverty."
Artists, businesses and individuals interested in becoming involved in the '1 of 52' Artist Hunger Network can visit http://members.aol.com/hungerzero, email ENDHUNGER@aol.com or call toll free within the US at 1-888-HUNGER-0 (ZERO).