We have launched the 75/75 Masi Campaign to raise 75% of funds in Desmond Tutu's 75th year

To date we have raised 45% of our target!

We are very excited to announce the 75/75 Masi Campaign in to raise R3 million to establish a youth centre in Masiphumelele, Cape Town. We are launching in the UK, Europe and Israel in May 2007. Australia and New Zealand will be launching soon...stay tuned! The 75/75 Masi Campaign aims to raise 75% of the funds by the end of 2007, Desmond Tutu's 75th year. So far we have raised 45% of our target at fundraisers in Cape Town, Vancouver, and the U.S.

Our implementation has begun:

• the land for the site of the Youth Centre has been purchased
• the sports' program will kick off on June 16 - South Africa Youth Day
• the architect's plans are ready
• the builder has been hired
• at least 50% of the construction workers will be local Masi youth - the community project coordinator is being hired

We embarked on this exciting journey in January 2006 with the intention of bringing some benefit to the young people and communities living with HIV and AIDS in South Africa. The project was conceived by Michael Hayden and fellow University of Cape Town medical Class of '75 alumni (Charlie Johnson, Bitty Muller, Shake Seigel, Sophie Kisting, Gail Loon-Lustig, Roelof Lourens, Julie Jaffer and Joan Louwrens) at a 30th class reunion in December 2005. The seed was planted and shortly therafter, a Steering Committee was formed to help guide the initiative forward and turn the idea into a concrete plan. We are thrilled to be able to share our exciting plans and vision with the entire Class of '75, other supporters and donors around the world! Our small group has done much in a short period of time and we feel tremendously privileged to be a part of this incredible opportunity to make a positive difference in young people's lives in Masiphumelele.

We need your support to reach our target! Every donation will be made in full to the Campaign. We welcome your support in more ways than just one - your money, time, and energy are equally appreciated!

Please browse our campaign materials, instructions on how to give in your country and fundraising contacts. We invite you learn more about our youth centre plans and the community of Masiphumelele. If you wish to donate, the links will take you to the charity in your country that has agreed to act on our behalf in order to issue tax receipts. And finally, feel free to contact one of us if you would like more information or are interested in getting more involved!

Please check back with us for ongoing updates.