The William J. Clinton Foundation: Get Involved

Article written by: Jacob Breinholt
Posted on: March 19, 2010

When it comes to philanthropy, SoJones is a vocal proponent. It is comforting to know, that in these financially and politically turbulent times, forces for good are still hard at work in the world. The William J. Clinton Foundation is one of those forces. Whether or not people agree with President Clinton’s political ideology, it is hard to disagree that the institution he has created is giving back in a big way.

The Clinton foundation was established after President Clinton left office. President Clinton started the foundation because he wanted to focus on the areas where he could make the most difference as a private citizen. Since that time, the foundation has grown into global NGO with over 1000 staff and volunteers, in nearly 50 countries.

The Clinton Foundation’s self stated mission is as follows:

The mission of the William J. Clinton Foundation is to strengthen the capacity of people in the United States and throughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence. To advance this mission, the Clinton Foundation has developed programs and partnerships in the following areas:

• Health Security
• Economic Empowerment
• Leadership Development and Citizen Service
• Racial, Ethnic and Religious Reconciliation

The Foundation works at fulfilling its mission through seven clear cut initiatives ranging from health care to the economy. There are currently seven initiatives that the Clinton Foundation is spearheading, to help the lives of global citizens. They are:

• Alliance for a Healthier Generation

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a partnership between the Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association, is dedicated to ending the increase in childhood obesity and helping all kids and their families lead healthy, active lives.

• Clinton Climate Initiative

The Clinton Climate Initiative is making a difference in the fight against climate change in practical, measurable and significant ways, by working with 40 of the world’s largest cities to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. CCI is assisting partner cities to make energy-savings improvements to buildings, transit systems, lighting and waste management.

• Clinton Economic Opportunity Initiative

The Clinton Economic Opportunity Initiative is helping families and individuals keep more of the money they make by supporting state and city efforts to promote access to basic financial services. CEO also matches inner-city entrepreneurs with successful business leaders to help them grow their businesses and flourish in an urban economy.

• Clinton Giustra Sustainable Growth Initiative

An innovative partnership between the Clinton Foundation, the private sector, governments, other NGOs and local communities, the Clinton Giustra Sustainable Growth Initiative is working with the natural resource industry to improve health and education programs and alleviate poverty, starting in Latin America.

• Clinton Global Initiative

The Clinton Global Initiative is a project of the Clinton Foundation that brings together a community of global leaders, university students, and private citizens to identify and implement innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges, including poverty alleviation, climate change, global health, and education.

• Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative

The Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative is helping to turn the tide on the HIV/AIDS pandemic by working with governments and other partners to increase the availability of high-quality AIDS care and treatment for people in need, lower the cost of essential tests and treatments, and strengthen health systems in the developing world.

• Clinton Hunter Development Initiative

The Clinton Hunter Development Initiative is working in Rwanda and Malawi to launch projects that generate income, increase agricultural productivity, and enable sustainable growth to alleviate poverty.

Through the Clinton Foundation, President Clinton emphasizes that idea that everyone can make a difference for the lives of other people. He urges people to get involved, whether it is by donating to the foundation, or otherwise.

Donations to the Foundation can be made directly through the Clinton Foundation website.