A great article about a UK group who hopped on a bouncy-ball, scooted and rode bikes approximately 44 miles (from London to Brighton) to raise money for fistula programs in Tanzania came across the wire today. While I can’t imagine bouncing for a city block, much less dozens of miles, it reminded me of how limitless the options for raising funds and awareness truly are. As the holidays draw closer and we spend more time with our families and friends, there will be many opportunities to start conversations about obstetric fistula, the lack of maternal health in the developing world and what organizations like the Worldwide Fistula Fund are doing to help. It may also be the perfect time to start planning and publicizing your own fundraising event. Some ideas to consider include:

• Athletic Events — Whether you choose a run/walk, ski-a-thon or potato sack race, athletic events can be a fantastic way to spread the word, earn some money and have a ton of fun. While organizing your own might be a bit overwhelming, there are plenty of races and events that you can utilize to raise money for your favorite cause. The sky is truly the limit!

• Wine and Cheese Parties — For those who are a little more interested in relaxation, wine and cheese parties offer a great chance not only to socialize with your network but also to engage people on the issue of maternal health in developing countries in an informal setting. A little vino, a few plates of appetizers and a frank discussion about what’s really happening to girls and women who don’t have access to health care before, during or after pregnancy can go far to motivate people to get involved.

• Holiday Gifting – Asking for donations to a specific cause is less of an event per se than an idea that you might put to use at your workplace. Rather than suffer through the obligatory and awkward “Secret Santa” gift exchange, consider asking your company or department to pool the money they would’ve spent and send it to an organization working for the social good.

If you are planning a fundraising event for the Worldwide Fistula Fund, please let us know by e-mailing info@wffund.org. We appreciate your support and interest and would love to help in whatever way possible.