UNICEF USA works to put children first all over the world through fundraising, advocacy, and education for UNICEF’s global mandate here in the United States. They are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes, and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. UNICEF works in 190 countries and territories around the world and has helped save more lives than any other humanitarian organization. With every dollar donated, 88.4 percent goes directly toward helping children all around the globe.
Although its offices are located in Dallas and Houston, UNICEF's engagement and activations cover the entire state of Texas. Students can get involved with UNICEF’s work by joining their local UNICEF club, currently operating in 67 schools in Texas. Participants support campaigns and put on fun events to raise money for UNICEF.
UNICEF USA implemented the original Kids-Helping-Kids program with the iconic Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. Kids can support their peers throughout the year with UNICEF Kid Power, which allows kids to get active and save lives by tracking physical activity through the Kid Power band and app. Kids run, jump, and dance to unlock funding from partners which UNICEF uses to deliver lifesaving nutrition to severely malnourished children. The more kids move, the more lives they save. To date, over 10 million packets of lifesaving nourishment have been unlocked saving over 70,000 lives.
UNICEF Next Generation is a group of young leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who commit their resources, resolve, and enthusiasm toward supporting UNICEF’s lifesaving work. Members study issues that affect children around the world and choose UNICEF projects to support through education, advocacy, skill sharing/remote volunteering, and fundraising. Through their activities, members mobilize their networks and inspire their generations to take action on behalf of the world's most vulnerable children.
In Texas, the major events include the UNICEF Gala Dallas and the UNICEF Gala Houston. These events are held annually in the spring. Both are black-tie affairs honoring outstanding humanitarian leaders and celebrating UNICEF’s mission. Head over to their websites to learn how to attend.