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Chilliwack fundraiser for 'Women for Change'

Corky's Irish Pub is hosting a fundraiser on May 5 for Women for Change, an organization helping women and children in Zambia.

A fundraiser is being held this weekend to promote equality for all women regardless of where they live.

Chilliwack resident Shaina Edel, who is currently volunteering in Zambia with Women for Change, has organized a fundraiser at Corky's Irish Pub this Saturday, May 5, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

All funds raised will go towards supporting Women for Change (WFC) programs.

For more than 20 years, Women for Change, a non-government organization, has been working with communities in Zambia, particularly with women and children in rural areas, to improve gender equality in social, political and economic development through popular education methodologies.

"I have seen first hand the work that WFC does," said Edel, who was among 10 aboriginal youth in Canada selected to intern with Videa's international youth pilot program, which sent her to Zambia in February to work with Women for Change.

"WFC hasn't just impacted hundreds of thousands of lives in these rural communities for over 20 years, but they have impacted lives around the world. They have fought with everything inside of them for equality and justice of all people – fought for the five basic rights that most of us in North America aren't aware that millions don't have access to."

WFC promotes increased participation of women and youth in leadership and decision making at household, community and national levels; improved sustainable livelihoods; and increased access to basic rights.

Helping the cause is something Edel feels all should be apart of.

"They have inspired me that even in poverty we can fight for justice and equality," the 23-year-old said. "We can put aside our selfish wants and help others that in return will benefit our future, our children's future.

"Life isn't about who has the biggest house, the most cars. What matters is the positive imprint we leave in the lives we left behind."

Tickets for the WFC fundraiser are $10 at the door, which includes a burger and a drink. A 50-50 draw will be held, as will a silent auction.

For more information on Women for Change, visit the website www.wfc.org.zm.

As well, Edel is posting regular updates of her journey in Zambia on her blog at www.shaina-in-zambia@blogspot.com.