Thursday, June 23, 2011

50G- For Our Sisters

Team 50G
Some people set astronomical goals, resigned to never achieve anything. But when Gesche Haas, Jaclyn Mitleider, and Margot Weber decided that they wanted to raise $50,000 for the Somaly Mam Foundation, they decided that they were not to be stopped. Having raised over $30,000 to date, the 50G girls have shown remarkable dedication and passion in the fight to end modern slavery.

The idea first came into being after Gesche read Somaly Mam’s  autobiography, The Road of Lost Innocence. The story had such a profound impact on her that she shared it with her roommates.
"We naturally felt that Somaly’s fate could have been ours had we just been born into less fortunate circumstances," they explained. "We felt that the book gave us perspective – issues that we viewed as 'problems' in our lives seemed so laughable compared to what these girls had to endure."

Though they were previously unaware of how widespread sexual slavery is in the world, the book helped the trio gain awareness and knowledge. Their passion for justice and close personal bonds made their idea become reality.

"Our philosophy is to do good, yet to never let it become a chore but rather an enjoyable process that allows us to bond with friends and that is also compatible with us working full time. Charity is so important - it should be a natural, integral part of our lives," they said.

Though all three women visited Cambodia, it was before they had learned of Somaly Mam and the fight against humn trafficking. They hope to visit in the near future to see firsthand where their impact has been made.
"We have seen quite a few photo and video footage of the shelters," they said, "But being able to see these things with our own eyes, being captivated by the strength of all the girls and perhaps seeing the results of our fundraising efforts would truly be a dream come true."

To learn more about the 50G project or to donate to their efforts, visit their site here.

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