Action Against Hunger: Team PEI - Interview - Apr 1/12

I had a chance to talk with Alisha Stephen and Jennifer Clark, the organizers of the Action Against Hunger Fundraising Gala that is being held at the Confederation Center for the Arts on Saturday, April 7th.  Not only were these ladies joys to talk to, their cause is most certainly a worthy one.  I was able to discuss the event with them and see what lies ahead:

1. First of all, tell me a bit about yourselves.

- A: We are both small business owners, and that’s actually how Jennifer and I met.

2. What got you involved in Action Against Hunger?

- A:  I was on the internet and there was a photo on Facebook with Steve Jobs that had the caption “One Dies. Million Cry” and next to it was a group of malnourished children that said “Million Die. No One Cries.”  I looked into it and discovered that it was an estimated 5 million children who die of malnutrition every year, and approximately 1 billion who are malnourished.  Action Against Hunger is a good organization, and that day I posted the photo and pledged to raise $10,000.  Immediately, Jennifer wanted to be on board.  She has been with me since day one.

3. Could you tell me a bit about the Gala that you’re holding on the 7th?

- J: After we decided that we’re going to raise the $10,000 we got together and tried to think of different avenues we can take.  Having a gala event was the first thing that we thought of.  We put our heads together, we gathered up people and companies from the community to get on board with the event, we rounded up a really great lineup of entertainment, as well as sponsors and donors and just put this whole event together!  We have great performances, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and oyster bar, we have a silent auction, prize table, 50/50, a chance to win a trip for two anywhere Westjet flies, as well as tons of other things.

4. How has the response been in the community?

- J: We had a really positive response from artists and we have so many donations.  People have been contacting us to donate items or their time so in that respect it has been really positive that way.

5. What song best describes your journey with Action Against Hunger?

- J: The first one that comes to mind is one by Johnny Reid “Today I’m Going To Try And Change The World.”

This is one fantastic cause to come out and support, and for only $40 a ticket you get an amazing lineup of performers (The Bad Habits, Todd MacLean and Justin Simard, Jordan Cameron, The Dysfunctional Dads, and Groove Company), a chance to win a trip for two anywhere in the world Westjet flies, free food, and the knowledge that your purchase has gone to help save the malnourished.  So get all dressed up, throw on your dancing shoes, and get ready for one amazing evening you will not forget!  Doors open at 7:30pm.