Raising money and awareness can be fun! Or at least this is the motto of the individuals committed to Comic Relief-a UK based organization working to create a just world free from poverty through their funny antics.  The biggest annual event is Red Nose Day. This telethon boasts the trademark of red noses and includes stand-up comics and all sorts of funny acts to raise awareness and money for the organization.

The Fun*Raisers include well-known celebrities and even Miss Piggy in the day-long event. Each Fun*Raiser has a specialty such as dress-up, bake, sell, challenge, entertain, and dare.  They offer tips and advice for hosting an event.  Schools, organizations, and individuals all across the UK participate in Red Nose Day.  The website- http://www.rednoseday.com/– has some amazing resources and ideas for fundraising in general.

This past Red Nose Day was held March 15 and the fundraising total is currently at $141 million USD with funds still being collected.  The funds raised go to support UK charities giving shelter to young people and protection to those living with domestic abuse. In addition,  funds go to Africa to provide clean water and life-saving vaccines.  The organization is working hard to ignite change throughout the UK and across Africa.

Red Nose Day helps to bring awareness to their mission through a very simple object-a red clown nose.  By wearing one, individuals are identified with a cause and the day is devoted to raising money and having fun in the process.  The website has games and fun ideas and stories of how thankful individuals are for the help they have received from the organization.  Keep an eye out for next year’s Red Nose Day and find out how to get involved here.

– Amanda Kloeppel

Source: Red Nose Day
Photo: Sony Music