People Who Move The World

Can we move the world to end genocide? We believe we can, and our donors are supporting our efforts. To prove it, they have issued STAND a People Who Move the World Challenge: through August 31, money raised in support of this effort will be matched up to $15,000 to meet the end of summer goal of $30,000.

Until the end of August, we will be featuring outstanding MOVErs here.  Each one has contributed to the anti-genocide movement in their own way.  Now, our challenge to you:

How will you move the world?

Matthew Heck

This month’s profile is Matthew Heck.  In 2008, Matthew organized the first Never Ignore, Never Forget Relay, a 1,300 mile run from his home state of Kansas to Washington, D.C. His goal was to raise awareness and support for the movement to end genocide and mass atrocities in Darfur, Burma, Congo and beyond.

Matthew’s nine-member relay team began their journey on June 2 with the goal to reach the Washington, D.C. in fourteen days.  Averaging 100 miles per day, Matthew and his team achieved their goal and reached the Capitol in two weeks. When they reached their destination, they met with their senator, Sam Brownback, to urge his continued leadership on anti-genocide legislation.

Matthew’s effort raised $25,000 for Genocide Intervention Network and is an example of one person taking extraordinary action to stop and prevent genocide.

Johnny Strange

Meet Johnny Strange: Johnny's passion and commitment led him to take a bold step to raise awareness about ending genocide.

On May 20, Johnny climbed to the top of Mt. Everest and delivered a message, "Stop Genocide." Following Everest, he climbed two more peaks, becoming the youngest person to climb the Seven Summits.

After enduring harsh conditions and risking his life, Johnny sent an email to his family and friends saying: "Never let anyone stifle your dreams no matter the feat, for if you have the heart and the courage, impossible is nothing."

Johnny's actions prove that nothing is impossible. Help us move the world and stop genocide.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories like Johnny's of People Who Move the World, and take part in our challenge this summer.