We're bringing the buzz to South Africa

Nothing But Nets

The UN Foundation has been working with the UN to fight malaria for years. But it was a column that Rick Reilly wrote about malaria in Sports Illustrated--and thousands of letters and donations from people like you--that led to the creation the Nothing But Nets campaign.

The reaction to Reilly's 815 words made clear that thousands of people were ready to help the million children dying unnecessarily each year of malaria. And so Nothing But Nets was born.

Already, groups as diverse as the NBA and the United Methodist Church have joined the campaign. Now, we're asking you to help spread the word about Nothing But Nets, and how easy it is to protect children from malaria with bednets.

You can save a family. Your church, school, or team can save a village. Together, we can cover Africa with lifesaving bednets.

Submitted by Danielle Garrahan on July 9, 2010

Co-Authored by Dave Burton

From the very humorous comment made by the KLM pilot leaving Amsterdam that "We will be able to get going as soon as the last of the vuvuzelas are loaded," to the decked out airport, to the international flags lining all the major roadways, it is clear that World Cup fever is everywhere.

We are now down to the final two teams in the tournament, and the talk turns to who everyone is now rooting for. No matter your favorite, being here in South Africa is a source of great pride for the country, and a fantastic chance for the world to focus its attention on the continent of Africa, both for its enormous beauty and its struggles.

Tonight, during the finale concert, we will have the opportunity to share important stories about malaria throughout the performances. I hope that along with football fever, team loyalty, and a great time, people are able to see that now is the time to get involved and make a difference. We are united against malaria. Send a net. Save a life.