UNICEF USA

"We're strong. We'll get through," says 17-year-old Sofia from Ukraine. Even as war continues to disrupt daily life, Sofia holds onto her dream of becoming a pediatric surgeon — inspired by the medics she’s seen saving lives in her community. Her story is one of courage, resilience and hope — a reminder that even in the midst of conflict, education and determination can light the way forward. UNICEF remains on the ground in Ukraine, helping young people like Sofia access education, protection and the support they need to keep learning, dreaming and rebuilding their futures. Learn more about UNICEF’s work for children and youth in Ukraine: https://lnkd.in/e3SBCt7A

Following the news of a ceasefire, children in Gaza share their feelings of happiness and hope. UNICEF is ready to scale up lifesaving assistance and continues to call for the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid and commercial supplies at scale. The ceasefire must be sustained. Learn more, including how to help: https://lnkd.in/e38U9fUq

I’m honored to celebrate the renewal of Kimberly-Clark’s partnership with UNICEF — a $12.8 million, three-year commitment supporting menstrual and maternal health programs across five countries. Since 2001, Kimberly-Clark and UNICEF have worked together to improve the health and well-being of women and children around the world, reaching 14 million people with care, education and support. Our renewed partnership builds on that impact. Focusing on community-driven solutions that help women and girls thrive, our partnership reflects what's possible when the private sector and UNICEF come together — scaled solutions for scaled impact. It’s a privilege to work alongside a partner whose purpose and values align so closely with UNICEF’s and who is deeply committed to creating impact that lasts for generations.

Add some meaning to your Halloweening this October at Mall of America! This weekend, October 16-19, join us for a Halloween celebration that gives back. As the official partner of Nickelodeon, we’re hosting a free Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF pop-up experience at the Mall of America. Join us for seasonal fun while making a meaningful difference for children around the world. 💙 #ToT4UNICEF Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e8QCgyp7

At recent events during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) and the Donor Experience Summit (DXS), one theme remained front and center: the role of innovative finance in reshaping the future of development, and the future of non-profits. This is vital work, but I also believe that financing without grant funding will lead us to underachieve on impact for the most vulnerable. At the DXS Summit, I joined Ilana Esterrich of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Cathryn McAleavey of BDO and Anna Daher of Fundraise Up to discuss what strategic capital really means for nonprofits, and why it’s essential for growth. To me, strategic capital isn’t a single funding source; it’s a robust, resilient capital stack that fuels both stability and innovation: - Unrestricted and multi-year grants that allow flexibility and long-term planning - Reserves or “rainy day” funds that enable smart risk-taking and innovation - Lines of credit and loans to manage short-term cash needs - Strategic partnerships and in-kind support to amplify every dollar - Bridge financing to sustain momentum - Third party capital that is aligned with our mission Loans and lines of credit are crucial for bridge funding and investments where there is a possibility of payback, but grants remain vital to lasting impact. Not everything that changes lives can be financed for return. At UNICEF USA, we’re exploring new ways to blend innovation and philanthropy, building financial models that reflect both sustainability and humanity. Every investment in children is an investment in our shared future.

Today's hostage and prisoner release in Israel and Gaza is an important step towards lasting peace. We're overjoyed to see families reunited with their loved ones, and grateful to the U.S. Government for its role in making this ceasefire possible. The focus now must be on delivering for children and preventing their further suffering. Aid must be allowed into Gaza at scale.

64 years ago today, on October 13, 1961, President John F. Kennedy recognized the growing impact of Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. That presidential nod marked a turning point in the campaign’s history, helping cement #ToT4UNICEF as a beloved national tradition. Today, the spirit of that call to action lives on. Ahead of Halloween, join us in celebrating the legacy and impact of ToT4UNICEF — and add some meaning to your Halloweening: https://lnkd.in/eM9QWvH2

Our team recently traveled to the City of Salem, Massachusetts — the Halloween capital of the world — to celebrate 75 years of Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF and Salem joining UNICEF’s Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI). From festive fun to civic pride, Salem showed what it means to put children at the heart of their community. Learn more about CFCI: unicefusa.org/CFCISalem 📷 © Daniel Ebersole for DJQ Media LLC

A lot has changed since these photos were taken, but one thing remains constant: UNICEF’s unwavering commitment to supporting every child, everywhere. 75 years ago, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF began with a simple idea from Philadelphia’s Clyde and Mary Emma Allison to empower trick-or-treaters to make a difference while collecting candy. To date, the campaign has raised $200 million to support children worldwide. #ToT4UNICEF has inspired generations to give back. This October, it’s up to us to carry on the tradition. Learn how you can participate all month long and add some meaning to your Halloweening: https://lnkd.in/eM9QWvH2