The 50/50 Challenge is a virtual event taking place during the month of June 2017. 50/50 is all about taking a stand against human trafficking because we believe that every life is equally valuable! Accepting the challenge means publicly declaring that no life is more important than another; we are all equal in God’s eyes.
We love banquets, concerts and charity runs but those type of fundraising events can take a lot of resources to pull off.
We know people are super busy and don’t always have time to come to special events. Plus, Fresno in the summer is hot!
So, taking inspiration from a certain delicious ice cream/popsicle treat, we came up with an idea that we think can be innovative and fun at the same time.
A lot can happen in only a month.
According to data from Central Valley Against Human Trafficking, nearly 18 victims have been identified on average during the first three months of 2017. The Fresno Police Chaplaincy reports that in a 30 day period from 04/11/17-5/11/17 there were 203 calls for runaway juveniles. In the past, as many as 20% of those runaway youth have been identified as victims of trafficking.
Now, more than ever, it’s crucial that we work together to prevent young people from being exploited by traffickers.
As part of the 50/50 Challenge, Central Valley Justice Coalition is looking to raise $2500 in new pledged monthly support. 50 new partners giving $50 a month would make it possible for us to sustain our current prevention/education work and expand it to reach more vulnerable people in the future. Any combination of monthly donors adding up to $2500 works, so $50 is simply a suggestion!
The best things in life are those that we share with others, so it is our hope that 50/50 is something that you will be willing to tell friends, coworkers, family members and neighbors about. We will be using posts, videos, memes, songs, instant messages, tweets, snaps and more to spread the word. If you are already supporting us, we aren’t asking you to GIVE more just to help SHARE this opportunity with those in your social circle!
During the month of June, new pledge partners will receive some special gifts for signing up! A 50/50 refrigerator magnet, free music downloads, and Sno Café desserts are just a few of the ways we want to appreciate those who are coming alongside us.
Will you join us in June for the 50/50 Challenge? Together, let’s take a bite out of injustice!
– Ryan Townsend, executive director.