Hello friends,

I enjoy this time of year for many reasons - the sun is shining in New Zealand; I go on holiday with my family; and the spirit of the season brings out a joy and quality of generosity in people that I find incredibly uplifting. It is also the perfect time to reflect on the changes that have taken place around the world over the course of the year and recognize what has been achieved.
In 2008 humanity was faced with some serious challenges, yet I am so proud of GVN and all of our volunteers, donors, partners and supporters who rallied together during these difficult times to help those who need it most.

We watched the global food crisis rock the world and force a 100 million more people to join the ranks of the extremely poor. GVN and GVN Foundation sprung into action and stepped up our 'Eat So They Can' fundraising campaign and hundreds of hosts signed up from all around the world. We raised a record $55, 000 US that will go towards alleviating child in poverty in Africa.
The post election turmoil in Kenya left over 600,000 people displaced and the economy gutted; disaster for a country already laced with multidimensional problems of poverty, disease and hunger. In response, GVN Foundation launched an emergency appeal for people living in IDP camps and raised over $7 500 which purchased desperately needed food, blankets and other supplies for many families who had lost everything.

The global financial crisis that hit was reported as "The worst of its kind since the depression" and inflation and world unemployment reached historic levels. Yet despite the credit crunch, 1700 committed volunteers gave their time to assist communities in need. In addition, 35 brave trekkers tackled Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Everest Base Camp as part of our fundraising treks, contributing over $70 000 to the Africa and Nepal Children's Fund.

Do you believe you can make a difference? Do you believe you can change the world?
History was changed recently when Barack Obama won the election and became the first African-American president of the United States. His brilliant acceptance speech still gives me tingles. He said,
"Don't tell me we can't change. Yes, we can. Yes, we can change. Yes, we can. Yes, we can heal this nation. Yes, we can seize our future."

I believe we can.

On behalf of everyone at GVN, I would like to wish you a safe and happy holiday, and I look forward to seizing our future with you in 2009 and continuing to be the change we wish to see in the world.

Colin SalisburyChief Executive Officer