SEATTLE — While performing for thousands of screaming fans every night, Justin Bieber is also helping kids in East Ghana get a quality education.
Before Bieber wrapped up the American leg of his “Purpose World Tour” last May, the nonprofit organization Pencils of Promise (PoP) named the famous crooner its first-ever global ambassador. Since 2009, PoP has increased educational opportunities in developing countries and built 363 schools through their programs in Ghana, Guatemala and Laos.
Where does Bieber tie into all of this? It’s simple. One dollar from each concert ticket sold goes toward the cause. With help from “Purpose World Tour” funding, PoP has started to construct seven new schools in the Eastern Region of Ghana, with six more on the way, which will serve over 1,500 new students in 2016 alone.
The funds will benefit two particular districts in East Ghana, where education standards are significantly below average. In Lower Manya Krobo, 33 percent of existing classrooms require major repairs. Another area in dire need of assistance is Asuogyaman, as 42 percent of primary students are not able to pass the national English language exams to go to secondary school.
Bieber started working with PoP during the early stages of his pop stardom when he met the organization’s founder, Adam Braun–his manager Scooter’s younger brother. Notably, in the past, Bieber put ticket sales from his “My World” and “Believe” tours toward the organization and also visited one of the schools that he helped fund in Guatemala.
Though probably one of the most well known, Bieber isn’t the only one partnered up with PoP. Among others involved are companies such as Lokai Bracelet and 1-800flowers.com, both of which built schools for the organization through individual sales. Even some of the big names like Google and Microsoft have given back simply because they too value the mission of PoP.
The humanitarian message behind Pencils of Promise (PoP) has made a dramatic difference in the lives of children living in poor countries. The approach starts with identifying partner communities, building schools together and finally sustaining and supporting. Fortunately, with worldwide star Justin Bieber as a face of PoP, the organization continues to grow and expand its impact to other regions in need.
– Mikaela Frigillana
Photo: Flickr