What is UNICEF

Penn for UNICEF is a student group at the University of Pennsylvania that advocates, fundraises, and raises awareness for children's rights around the world. 

UNICEF is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential.

UNICEF is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child and strives to establish children's rights as enduring ethical principles and international standards of behavior towards children.

What is UNICEF USA

Founded in 1947, UNICEF USA is the oldest of 33 worldwide National Committees for UNICEF. Together, the national committees raise approximately one-third of the operational budget of UNICEF. UNICEF USA prioritizes advocacy, education and fundraising to fight for children’s rights globally.

What is the UNICEF Clubs Program

The UNICEF Clubs program is a youth-led, grassroots movement. High school and college students in the United States play a vital role as the voice for children everywhere. UNICEF Clubs partner with UNICEF USA and activate their local community. It is UNICEF USA’s goal to empower youth in the United States with the resources and skills to be effective global citizens.

What Do Our Clubs Do?

Each activity of a UNICEF Club falls into one of the following categories:

Fundraising: Plan and support fundraisers that generate donations for UNICEF. Contribute to UNICEF’s impact for children by hosting a fundraiser, like a film screening, bake sale or cultural event, for example. 

Advocacy: Use your voice for youth around the globe by staying civically engaged on a federal, state and local level. Take legislative action online and during key moments throughout the year to push for funding and policies for children.

Community Building: Find opportunities to promote the work of UNICEF in your local community. Tap into your existing relationships with community organizations, schools, or faith-based institutions. You can also highlight and extend the reach of UNICEF USA programs, such as UNICEF Kid Power and Trick- or-Treat for UNICEF.

Education: Raise awareness among your peers and in your neighborhood about UNICEF USA. Support UNICEF’s global work through yearly campaigns around issues such as gender equality, human trafficking or health.

For more information visit: https://www.unicef.org/about-us/mission-statement