Share Kindness with a Laugh!
Everyone loves to laugh — it is said to be the best medicine. Since 1988, the Comic Relief Organization based in the UK has sponsored Red Nose Day as a fundraising effort to raise money for charities across the UK and around the world that provide aid and support to vulnerable populations, with a special focus on helping children. What makes Red Nose Day unique is that it emphasizes laughter and having fun to spread joy to people of all ages while raising money for several great causes.
The past year has been tough for all of us due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but for some, it has been devastating. This year’s Red Nose Day will raise funds to support those most challenged by the pandemic’s economic and social effects. In addition to helping those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic, Red Nose Day 2021 seeks to raise funds for these four objectives:
1. Improved Access to Mental Health Services
Many people all over the world struggle with mental health issues, though oftentimes access to mental healthcare is limited if it exists at all. Red Nose Day funds raised this year will be used to improve access to quality care for those who need it. Additionally, the funds will be used in the effort to combat the stigma around mental health issues.
2. A Safe Place for Everyone
Millions of people all over the globe do not have a safe place to sleep at night, either because they have been displaced due to war, natural disasters, discrimination, or other factors. One of Red Nose Day’s core beliefs is that every person should have a safe and dignified place to stay. The campaign is partnered with organizations that seek to combat homelessness, assist displaced refugees and asylum-seekers, and provide shelter to those in need.
3. Support for Child and Neonatal Health
Millions of children worldwide die before their 5th birthday, in many cases due to preventable or treatable causes. Others still grow up lacking the care necessary to thrive and reach their potential. This year’s funds will help put an end to child poverty and provide aid in the form of healthcare access, medicine, neonatal care, and childcare assistance to vulnerable children and mothers, particularly those living in poverty.
4. Safety from Gender-based Discrimination
Many people experience discrimination, violence, and exploitation due to their gender. Red Nose Day wants to end gender-based discrimination and violence by working with organizations that support victims of domestic violence, gender-based discrimination, and more. The fundraiser will provide support, safety accommodations, and specialty services to people who have experienced gender discrimination and violence.
Despite the rather heavy issues at hand, Red Nose Day is all about raising awareness and funds for these causes through having fun, spreading joy, and making people laugh. So put your nose on and have a great time with your friends and family, spread positivity, and enjoy the Red Nose Day 2021 festivities on March 19th!
Which Celebrities Are Involved?
Red Nose Day is known for the well-known names involved in raising money and spreading happiness. This year, celebrity appearances include Dawn French, Reverend Geraldine Granger, David Tennant, and Michael Sheen. The all-day telethon will be hosted by Davina McCall, Paddy McGuinness, Alesha Dixon, David Tennant, and Comic Relief co-founder Sir Lenny Henry. Judi Dench, Benedict Cumberbatch, Karim Zeroual, Joe Sugg, Saffron Barker, Mo Gilligan, and others will be appearing as well. There is a special segment featuring Harry Styles called the “Treat People with Kindness” challenge, which is uniquely aligned with what we believe at Sahoja.
When Is Red Nose Day, and How Can I Get Involved?
Red Nose Day takes place on Friday, 19 March this year. Events will be televised throughout the day on CBBC and CBeebies, with the main TV fundraiser being broadcast live that evening on BBC One. There is a wide variety of fundraisers and opportunities going on during and leading up to the event, but one of the most common and fun ways to support the cause is by purchasing official Red Nose Day merchandise — including, of course, the titular red nose: https://comicrelief.com. The funds from merchandise and donations go to support the causes mentioned above.
What’s the Deal with the Red Nose this Year?
This year, the red noses are a little bit special compared to previous years. In addition to several new, fun designs available, the noses are now much more environmentally-friendly. A campaign led by schoolchildren to remove all the plastic from the red noses means that this year the noses are made entirely from biodegradable, plant-based materials. Since Red Nose Day is all about having fun, spreading laughter and positivity, and making the world a better place, it is only fitting that the noses are being made in an eco-friendly way!
What About Red Nose Day in the U.S.A.?
Comedy fans who want to help make a difference in America needn’t fret: Red Nose Day is held annually in the U.S. and typically is held in May. Like the U.K. original, the U.S. version features celebrity appearances, a televised event, and more. Keep on the lookout for news and updates on Red Nose Day, all the fun events planned, and who will be appearing!
Let’s help provide safety to children and families who need support. Tackle mental health stigma. Take action against domestic abuse. And help to give children a brighter future. And do it with laughter!! LOL.
Sahoja members can donate their reward points to support Red Nose Day through our Impact Projects: https://app.sahoja.co/projects/16 Not a member yet? Join now and we’ll give you 10,000 points (that’s a $10 value) which you can immediately donate to our Impact Projects! Join us today.
Author Bio:
Matt Bonaccio graduated from Le Moyne College in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. He is a freelance writer and blogger who seeks to make thought-provoking connections to the real world in his work. In his free time, he enjoys playing the guitar (badly) and learning how strange, obsolete mechanical and electrical devices work.
