The extreme challenges of global poverty and need can easily overwhelm those who take up the fight to beat these challenges. The Millennium Development Goals have been established to provide a structure to reduce the extreme conditions of those in need and begin the process of eliminating of the horror of poverty and suffering throughout the world and act as responsible citizens of the world. BUT WHAT CAN WE DO? Glad you asked – read on!

First, what are the Millennium Development Goals? These goals outline 8 specific global needs in the fight against poverty and suffering.

• Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
• Achieve universal primary education
• Promote gender equality and empower women
• Reduce child mortality
• Improve maternal health
• Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases
• Ensure environmental sustainability
• Create a global partnership for development, with targets for aid, trade, and debt relief

Now that you know what the 8 goals are, the next thing to do is to learn more about them. There are many great ways to do this, but here are a few. If you prefer to read books, then read Sabina Alkire and Edmund Newell’s book, “What Can One Person Do? Faith to Heal a Broken World.” The link can be found on the home page of this blog. If you prefer to learn via the web, then check “The ONE Campaign” or “Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation.” Both sites have great information and can also point you to additional resources.

The most important part of becoming involved in the ongoing effort to eradicate extreme poverty, help those in need, and become good stewards of our planet is to do something, ANYTHING, and these resources will help you to find your talents, your passions, and your gifts. Go help and God bless you.