While 2017 seems to have given people plenty of reasons to be pessimistic, it may not be wise to sink too deeply into that particular style of thought. After all, there are still plenty of opportunities out there to help other people coming up in 2017 – and it’s these opportunities that we should put a little more of our focus and energy towards.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the upcoming events and dates that are highlighting some of the key problems a lot of us are facing, with the aim of spreading awareness and encouraging charitable action.
World Refugee Day – June 20
A lot of people are only just becoming aware of the extent of “the refugee problem” due to it being such a hot topic in many important state executive elections over the past twelve months But these problems have existed for a long time, and it’s been estimated that there are as many as 14 million refugees in the world today. The UN set up World Refugee Day in 2000. Keep the date in mind if you’re worried about the plight of displaced peoples all over the world.
World Humanitarian Day – 19 Aug
World Humanitarian Day celebrates the many people who have left their homes and gone to other countries in order to help those in need – in particular, it’s a day dedicated to those who never made it back home. Highlighting the danger that these itinerant humanitarians place themselves in is essential, as is taking action that supports those who are still doing their bit to help others around the world. Find out more about what you can do by visiting the organization’s website.
International Men’s Day – 19 November
To many people, there seems to be no need to highlight men’s issues. Those who try are often branded sexist. But there are plenty of issues of legal discrimination and underfunded medical concerns plaguing boys and men all over the world, as the Director of Women and Culture of Peace at UNESCO as highlighted. In fact, the entirety of November has become something of an awareness month for men’s health – just look at “Movember”! You can check out the right way to do “no shave November” if you don’t mind growing a moustache for charity – and, of course, those who can’t grow moustaches can help in many ways including donation, too!
International Day of Persons with Disabilities – 3 December
People with disabilities – both physical and mental – face several social, economic, cultural, and even political problems on a frequent basis, as well as the more obvious problems associated with their conditions. A lot of people are afraid that offering assistance to people with disabilities comes across as patronizing or condescending, but you shouldn’t be afraid of this! Charity events that help those with particularly debilitating conditions should always be highlighted. Look at what organizations were able to do back in 2016 and you’ll get a good idea of what you can do this December, whether you’re an individual or a business looking to assist in an important charitable cause.
