NEWS

2011-08-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Elton John AIDS foundation

Since the mid-1980's, Elton John has channeled the grief over the loss of many dear friends to HIV/AIDS into various efforts to help raise money for charitable organizations supporting AIDS research and providing vital services to people with HIV/AIDS. In 1992, frustrated and angered by the growing magnitude of the epidemic and how comparatively little was being done to help those affected by the virus, he decided to bring focus to all of his AIDS-related work by establishing the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) in the United States (EJAF-US, registered in New York). The following year, he also established this foundation in the United Kingdom (EJAF-UK, registered in London). Today, EJAF is one of the world's leading nonprofit HIV/AIDS organizations supporting innovative HIV prevention programs, efforts to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, and direct care and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Together, both entities have raised over $150 million to support such programs in 55 countries around the globe since inception. EJAF supports its work through proceeds from concerts, arts-related exhibitions, and special events; cause-related marketing projects and licensed merchandising; and voluntary contributions (large and small) from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
EJAF-US's grant-making supports programs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America. EJAF-UK focuses its grant making on projects in Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Without question, EJAF's greatest asset and strength is its Founder and Chairman, Sir Elton John. No mere figurehead, Sir Elton serves as EJAF's chief fund-raiser - conducting benefit concerts, meeting with major donors, foundations and corporations, and participating in numerous public events. Also, as a highly visible and outspoken advocate, he has testified before Congress, spoken at press conferences, writes editorials and delivers speeches at events and awards ceremonies. His status as an entertainment icon and his many years as a dedicated AIDS activist and philanthropist bring tremendous visibility and credibility to EJAF's work.