Arizona, Let's Talk About Poverty

I recently learned that Arizona ranks close to top ten in the country for states with the highest poverty rate. The Census Bureau shows that although the poverty percentage has fallen, Arizona’s poverty level still remains higher than the national average. The good news is that we’re improving, and I see the way Arizonians care and help people in need not only locally, but around the country.

Poverty doesn’t only affect the United States, however. Around the world, 736 million people live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than $1.90 a day. Additionally, half of the world’s poor are children.

That’s why it’s so important to have organizations like The Borgen Project that fights to end global poverty. Since I’ve been a volunteer for the organization, it has opened my eyes to how much more I can do to make the world a better place for all people. It also made me realize how much more we all can be doing as a country to make a difference around the world.

By getting involved and donating to non-governmental organizations like the Borgen Project, Arizonians translate best the core values of the state we live in. Arizona is a place where everyone is welcome, and we should keep it that way. But that doesn't mean we can't also spread this compassion to other parts of the globe. In order to do this, we need to take action first.