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Pepperdine Showed its Support for World AIDS Day 

Established in 1988, World AIDS Day is an international awareness day created to raise money for the HIV/AIDS cause and educate people about this epidemic. Held on Friday, Dec. 1, this year's World AIDS Day focused on "accountability," encouraging common citizens not only to hold themselves accountable for the spread of this deadly virus, but also to hold government leaders accountable in the fight against and prevention of HIV/AIDS.  

In support of World AIDS Day, the Pepperdine University student chapter of Acting on AIDS, also known as YIFTU (You and I For The Universe): Acting on AIDS, carried out charitable activities and events throughout the day. One of the activities, "Lives are at Stake" donation program, presented in conjunction with World Vision, allows individuals to select a photo of a child affected by AIDS from a tree stake around campus committing to financially sponsor the child for one year. 

YIFTU: Acting on AIDS also has organized a holiday gift catalog from which individuals can purchase "gifts" to help those affected by HIV/AIDS this holiday season. The gifts range in price from $10 for five free HIV tests to $600 for a 10 percent share of a fresh water well. To donate to this cause, please visit the YIFTU: Acting on AIDS holiday catalog online donation form (check or credit card accepted).

The day concluded with the first annual Pepperdine Acting on AIDS Charity Benefit held at the Villa Graziadio Executive Center. The event included a delicious catered meal; a silent auction with gift bags, artwork, and other items; and a short presentation by the members of the Pepperdine Acting on AIDS team. All proceeds from the dinner went directly to clinics in Tanzania to cover daily running costs, provide free HIV/AIDS tests for local communities, and sponsor children who have been affected by the AIDS virus.

The Pepperdine Acting on AIDS chapter has come a long way since its beginning.  “We started out with just two or three people at this time last year and are now a thriving club recognized throughout the campus community,” says Stephanie Cupp, YIFTU’s Pepperdine University staff sponsor.

"Our goal is to open up an awareness about AIDS starting right here in the Pepperdine community," adds Josh Damian, Acting on AIDS event coordinator. "AIDS is not just a problem for 'those people over there,' but rather is a global epidemic that will affect the course of our lives, our children's lives, and the future of our society. By taking the steps towards raising awareness now, we are counteracting the power that AIDS has over our future."

Watch a video from World Vision’s Acting on AIDS student organization featuring Seaver College senior Wondirad Assefa-Tsegaye, founder of the Pepperdine YIFTU: Acting on AIDS chapter.