New York Area Artists Raise Over $8,000 for the Orphans of Uganda at the First Annual UORDP Fundraiser - "Art for Uganda"

Redding, CT, September 24, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Fourteen artists and photographers from New York and Connecticut recently raised over $8,000 for Ugandan orphans. Ugandan Orphans Rural Development Program - UORDP (http://ugandasorphans.org, kicked off their first annual fundraiser, “Art for Uganda” with a cocktail party and silent auction on August 20, 2011. More than 100 people attended the event that was spearheaded by UORDP’s U.S. Representative Donna Foley. Additionally, 11 children received sponsorship; donations will go directly towards helping orphans in the Tororo District of Uganda.

UORDP supporter and artist Margaret Roleke was the host for the event and was among the artist that donated work to support this important cause. UORDP auctioned off a mix of fine art photography and paintings including works by talented artists Jimmy Grashow, Vincent Baldassano, Joan Fitzsimmons, Ellen Hackl Fagen, Darlene Charneco, Rebecca Holden, Nancy Barry McBride, photographer Oscar Martinez and several others.

Beautiful hand-crafted masks, statues, serving pieces, and woven bags made by Ugandan craftspeople were also available for purchase. Local establishments, including Ancona’s Wines and Collyer Catering donated wine and appetizers; music was provided by Andrew Wyton on bass.

U.S. Representative Foley explained, “Uganda is a country in crisis with over 2 million orphans living at risk. UORDP is working to create sustainable change by improving the quality-of-life for children who are in desperate need.” By targeting key areas including: Early Childhood Education, Food Security, Preventative Healthcare, and Income Generating Activities, UORDP is strengthening communities. In 2003 Moxie Firecracker Films, featured UORDP founder Apollo Jaramogi in their award-winning documentary, Pandemic: Facing AIDS.

The primary focus for UORDP.US is to gain sponsorship for children up to 8 years of age. Full sponsorship at $250 a year, provides a child with school supplies, an education, a school uniform, a mosquito net, a mattress and blankets, and medical coverage.

UORDP (http://ugandasorphans.org) is dedicated to improving the quality-of-life for HIV/AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children. UORDP is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) and an NGO located in Southeast Uganda, East Africa. Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/UORDP).