Erase Poverty hosted its official launch party and a commemoration of the United Nations International Day to Eradicate Poverty. The event was held on October 20 at the United Nations Hall of Nations in Balboa Park, a special venue that highlights peaceful coexistence and cooperation among all peoples. To view pictures of the event, visit the Erase Poverty facebook page at www.facebook.com/erasepoverty
You can watch the video from the event here: http://youtu.be/yGfyWvulxwA
“One year ago this was just an idea. Seven months ago we planted the seed and nurtured it, and today, we celebrate the first sprout. It’s a seedling right now, but our vision is to grow strong and tall with a wide reach. Helping 1.5 million small businesses flourish, enabling them to fund 23 million microloans, and improving the lives of 604 million people,” said Joanna Wasmuth, Founder & CEO of Erase Poverty. “By mobilizing small businesses and their customers to fund microloans through everyday purchases, we will sustainably erase extreme poverty faster through the power of small business.”
There were refreshments, door prizes, inspiring stories and connections with like-minded people who care about making the world a better place. Guests signed a giant 10-foot eraser as a symbol of their pledge to help erase poverty, and received a small eraser as a reminder that erasing poverty is within our grasp.
WHAT PEOPLE SAID ABOUT THE CELEBRATION
“It was one of the most inspiring evenings I've had in a long time.”
“So amazing and incredible to meet people so engaged for helping others... you are a gift from God for Africa.”
“Such JOY & celebration in this launch”
“What an inspiring night! I can’t wait to get involved.”
“I am inspired by all the wonderful people who are obviously so committed to helping make this a huge success. Thank you for including me. I loved being a part of your beginnings!”
THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT HELPED MAKE THIS DAY POSSIBLE!
Brief remarks were made by:
Joanna Wasmuth - CEO & Founder, Erase Poverty
Dr. Mary McKenzie - President, United Nations Association in San Diego
Marilee Pierce Dunker - Child Ambassador, World Vision
Judy Bee - COO, Foundation for Women
Matt Hammet - Pastor, Flood Church
Char Caldwell - Opportunity International
Music was provided by:
Wanida Maertz
Bobby Cressey
Photography provided by:
Katie Gardner Photography
Videography provided by:
Mark Raines and Jason Segal
Floral Arrangements provided by:
Flowers A La Carte
Refreshments provided by:
Janine Taylor
Raffle Prizes provided by:
Davanti Enoteca
Craft & Commerce
Laurie Beth Jones
Spurp Jewelry Design
Blick Art Supplies
Erase Poverty
Synergy Programs
Gila Rut Salon
