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2002 Theme: Changing Lives Through Voluntary Action

Aga Khan Foundation U.S.A. (AKF USA) programs protect and promote the health and nutrition of children and women, raise levels of literacy and productivity and enable the involvement of community members in decision-making and management of programs that improve their livelihoods and well-being.

In 2002, through Partnership Walk, AKF USA recognized the contributions of volunteers in the U.S. and around the world, who instill hope and restore human dignity by serving to improve people's quality of life across national and cultural boundaries.

AKF USA's volunteers in the U.S. organize the Partnership Walks in four major cities, which all rely on the service and contributions of local volunteers. The day of the Walk is one of celebration and action to raise awareness and resources for the Foundation's programs. AKF USA's donors and volunteers create the framework for voluntary action and results overseas: from training young female teachers in Pakistan, to raising health standards and awareness in India, to parents in East Africa sitting on a pre-school advisory committee.

These examples are a small reflection of the impact of volunteers' efforts all over the world. AKF USA's success is ensured by the commitment and service of thousands of volunteers and donors ' expressed in their contributions of time and money.