Ken Kragen Statement
Founder and President of the Board

As USA for Africa's chapter in the fight against global poverty rolls to an end, I can not help but reflect on the journey. Some 20 years ago when you, I and others took the first small steps - buying a record and holding hands with a stranger, we set into motion a powerful tidal wave of action. It has grown beyond what any of us might have imagined.

If this experience taught me anything, it is that nothing is impossible. In many ways, USA for Africa has been a testament to the belief that when people are reached with the right message, vision or vehicle for action, they will do anything they can to make possible the impossible.

USA for Africa used two mega-events, We Are The World and Hands Across America, as a catalyst to build a widespread commitment to make hunger, homelessness, famine and poverty unacceptable where ever they may exist. Together we tapped popular culture to kindle a strong sense of community and unleash the power of collective action.

The task is far from finished. Despite the programs that we all supported or helped build, the need remains great. If we are to finish what we began, if we are to bring in others to share our efforts, all of us must stay involved. Each of us must roll up our sleeves and continue to work both locally and globally against hunger, homelessness and poverty.

We Are The World, Band Aid/Live Aid, and Hands Across America along with the many other efforts that grew out of our society's consciousness are all wonderful and inspirational beginnings. They showed the world that when we take action, both individually and collectively, we can and will make a difference.

Messages from:   Harry Belafonte   -   Ken Kragen   -   Marcia Thomas

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