UNICEF is an organization that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, to defend their rights and to help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. 

The UNICEF website states, “Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and inclusive environment. UNICEF works with partners around the world to promote policies and expand access to services that protect all children.”

The UNICEF club at Oak Park High School has one goal in the club: to spread awareness and change many preconceived notions that exist around global issues. Once a month on a Thursday, the club meets up to discuss issues that are occurring in the world today. The club tries to help improve global problems by raising awareness and money. 

“We are partnered with UNICEF USA and work to improve the lives of children across the world by educating our communities on global humanitarian concerns. In the club, we fundraise, advocate and educate others regarding the problems that exist for children in impoverished countries across the world. This includes children not having access to basic necessities in life,” President of the club,Gautam Valiveti said.

Throughout the year, the club held events that would raise money to help those that do not have access to high quality education, food, water and shelter. Individuals who lack these basic necessities globally face an extreme threat. Fundraising events helped impact the club and the UNICEF organization because of the money they were able to raise.