Nothing But Nets luncheon with Ted Turner

I recently returned from Atlanta, GA, where I was lucky enough to have enjoyed a Nothing But Nets luncheon with various members of Atlanta’s philanthropic community, including the UN Foundation Chairman himself, Mr. Ted Turner.  It was only about 10 years ago when Mr. Turner made a historic $1 billion donation and created the UN Foundation.  This incredibly generous donation has provided a platform for everyone to join him in making a difference in saving lives, just one $10 donation at a time.

Mr. Turner graciously opened his Atlanta home to Nothing But Nets yesterday and hosted a luncheon for community members.  Luncheon guests ranged from government officials to epidemiologists to corporate executives, but all guests who were in attendance share the same passion – to save lives from malaria. I could sense the enthusiasm in the room when Mr. Turner, Mr. Rutherford Seydel and Dr. Linda Quick all spoke about Nothing But Nets and how the city of Atlanta can join together and continue to support this great effort.

I was so happy to be able to highlight Mr. Glen Rollins, President and COO of Orkin, Inc., a fantastic Nothing But Nets partner.  Mr. Rollins spoke to guests about the success of Orkin’s Fight the Bite Campaign. In 2008, Orkin offered employees and customers the opportunity to donate to Nothing But Nets through Fight the Bite, and ended up raising more than $135,000 for bed nets and increased mosquito revenue by 42 percent!

At the end of the luncheon, our friends from the Ron Clark Academy performed an awesome song about preventing malaria!  The energy in the room soared as guests clapped and danced along to the performance.  I think we all left the luncheon feeling empowered and inspired to continue strengthening our efforts to eliminate malaria.  Thank you to Mr. Turner, luncheon guests and the city of Atlanta for such a wonderful event!