Give a Day to World AIDS
What is Give A Day?
Give a Day to World AIDS is a movement of Canadians responding to the AIDS pandemic in Africa. Each December, individuals, families and workplaces across the country have participated by donating one day’s pay to support grassroots AIDS initiatives in Africa through the Stephen Lewis Foundation and/or Dignitas International.
Give a Day makes World AIDS Day (December 1st) an opportunity to talk about the pandemic and to act on behalf of those facing the worst humanitarian crisis of our time. The movement is driven by the firm conviction that whether you live or die with HIV must not be determined by your race, gender or citizenship. It is a meaningful way for Canadians to speak up about AIDS in the world.
How do I get involved?
You can participate in Give a Day by giving an individual donation, or you can join with your friends, family and co-workers and start your own campaign.You can donate online, or pay by cheque, money order or by phone at 416-533-9292 or toll-free at 1-888-203-9990.
The Give a Day website provides ideas and tips on how to start a workplace campaign, and features resources such as downloadable posters, brochures and tribute postcards. Learn more at www.giveaday.ca.
How do I calculate one day’s pay?
To calculate a day’s pay, divide your annual pay (pre-tax or after tax – it’s up to you) by the number of working days in a year - 210. Although the campaign suggests giving a day’s pay, it is up to you to give what you are able – a half-day, a few hours, a week’s pay. Whatever you are able to give – it will make a difference.
Give a Day milestones:
- In 2004, Dr. Jane Philpott challenged her colleagues to donate a day’s pay for World AIDS Day. Together, they raised more than $30,000.
- In 2005, eight Ontario hospitals raised almost $100,000.
- In 2006, participants included law firms, health care workers, flight attendants, unions, teachers and businesses. They raised more than $500,000.
- In 2007, ten law firms sponsored the Give a Day campaign, and 16 firms participated. Schools, churches, unions and other businesses also joined the campaign, and worked hard to spread the word about the campaign! Together, they raised nearly $600,000.
Become part of Give a Day 2008!
“I envision the year when every Canadian will see December 1, World AIDS Day, as a day when they work not for themselves but for the broader human family. On that day, each Canadian will give up their income to help combat HIV infection around the globe. Surely we can each give up one day a year for those who battle courageously each day of their lives to see their families survive and thrive."
— Dr. Jane Philpott, Founder, Give a Day to World AIDS