January 8, 2009

Small Things Challenge

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Come join in and help others in need. All it takes it a few clicks and you're on your way in helping others who are less fortunate.

In my keynote at IDF San Francisco last August, I commented that “a small deed done is better than a great deed planned.” I’m happy to announce that today Intel is launching a campaign that embodies the spirit of that message.
The Small Things Challenge aims to raise awareness and money for two of the world’s most pressing challenges -- increasing access to primary school education and economic development in developing countries.
As a global leader, it is Intel’s responsibility in good times and bad times to set an example, help the less fortunate, and make the world a better place.
Throughout the developing world more than 75 million primary age children are not in school; and at least 80% of humanity lives on less than $10 a day. While these issues will continue to challenge our world for some time, we can improve individual’s lives through pooling surprisingly small contributions.


The Small Things Challenge encourages people worldwide to get involved and be part of the solution. In my global travels and work with the United Nations, I’ve seen the real-life, door-opening impact of micro-financing and education. We are working with two respected organizations – Kiva.org and Save the Children – to raise funds and deliver hands-on support in the local markets where help is needed most.
We need your help. Please take some time to visit www.smallthingschallenge.com and become familiar with the effort. Become an advocate and make your friends and family aware of the Small Things Challenge.
Every small, individual action can make a big difference - every journey starts with a first step. For example, Kiva.org brings micro-financing to the masses worldwide through the Internet. A modest micro-loan through Kiva.org will give an entrepreneur a hand-up to grow a business and provide for his or her family. A $25 loan can go towards the $250 a fisherman in Cambodia needs for buying nets so he can catch and sell more fish. Or, a small donation to Save the Children -- combined with other individuals’ contributions -- will provide thousands of primary school children in conflict-affected countries the opportunity to attend school.
The Small Things Challenge builds upon Intel’s 40 years of active involvement in education. Over the last decade, Intel has invested over $1 billion and Intel employees have donated more than 2 million hours towards improving education in 50 countries.
If you would like to make a contribution, I encourage you to do so. Collectively, let’s all work to realize some small deeds done.
Thanks,
Craig (Chairman of the Board of Intel Corporation)

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