Dr. Jane Aronson, founder and executive medical director of the WWO,
honors Mary Fisher with the organization's second annual Orphan
Ranger Award.

On 16 October, the Worldwide Orphans Foundation (WWO) honored UNAIDS Special Representative Mary Fisher in recognition of her longstanding AIDS efforts, particularly as a determined advocate for women and children living with and affected by HIV worldwide. Ms. Fisher was honored at the WWO's Second Annual Benefit Gala held in New York City.

UNAIDS Special Representatives Mary Fisher (right) and Naomi Watts

The event was emceed by Whoopi Goldberg, the prolific actress and comedian, and Katie Couric, anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric, raised millions of dollars to support the WWO's ongoing work on behalf of children orphaned by AIDS and other circumstances, and was attended by many notable figures, including UNAIDS Special Representative and renowned actress, Naomi Watts.

UNAIDS Special Representatives Mary Fisher

Since her appointment as UNAIDS Special Representative in May 2006, Ms. Fisher has undertaken UNAIDS fact-finding missions to Zambia and Rwanda, highlighting the socio-economic impact of HIV on women and girls.

In addition, Ms. Fisher has recently spoken at a number of high-level U.S. and international fora, including at the historic 1 June "Evening of Remembrance & Hope: Uniting the World Against AIDS" in the UN General Assembly Hall, sounding an urgent call for greater attention and action in the global response to AIDS.

All photos credits : UNAIDS / W. Lee

Related links

Worldwide Orphans Foundation

Press Release: Worldwide Orphans Foundation Raises over $1.2 Million