Nothing But Nets goes to Washington!

Yesterday former MLS player Diego Gutierrez, WNBA star Ruth Riley and 9-year-old Katherine Commale led the way as we brought the grassroots movement to end malaria deaths to Capitol Hill. Joined by our United Against Malaria partners, including Malaria No More and PSI, our Champions brought your messages of support to the offices of Representative Donald Payne, Senator Judd Gregg and Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Our feet were sore but our spirits were high as we met with policy-makers to talk about the importance of continued U.S. leadership in the global fight to end malaria deaths in Africa through both malaria prevention and treatment measures.

Following the full day of meetings, our Champions joined United Against Malaria Champion Molly Sims and MLS players Danleigh Borman and Clyde Sims to present more than 20,000 names of individuals across the country who are committed to helping end malaria. Thank you for signing our message to political leaders! The message was received, and Senator Wicker, accepting on behalf of the Members of Congress, responded by saying, “Let’s continue to build on the progress we’ve already made” and achieve our “goal of no more malaria deaths by 2015.” The growing number of malaria-focused organizations, corporate partners  and champions erupted in applause as this is what we are all striving toward, and having the support of the U.S. government will go a long way to getting us there.

Our investments in malaria prevention ARE working! Let’s continue to build on this momentum. World Malaria Day is right around the corner – just five days away. We all can have an impact. Host or join a Sleep Out to End Malaria and send a net to save a life!