The 2009 Naked Clown Calendar, though a fun theme, is being used to raise funds for researching a very serious disease: Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Only the first two shots are from the calendar but the rest of the photos are images of graduates of the Clown Conservatory Class of 2008 who you may see within its pages. The calendar is family-friendly because the nude shots are done tastefully and all private parts are completely covered.
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain and spinal cord. It generally affects people between the ages of 20 and 40, and is more common in women than men. As of now, there is no cure for MS and treatment is aimed at dealing with the symptoms. Many people live with MS without extreme complications, but others may find themselves completely debilitated.
The 2009 Naked Clown Calendar was started by Judy Finelli, a circus performer and founder of the San Francisco School for Circus Arts (Circus Center), who was diagnosed with MS in 1989. Finelli, despite being a quadriplegic, wants to ensure those with Multiple Sclerosis fight for their dreams.
Each month next year, profits from the 2009 Naked Clown Calendar go to the Judy Finelli Fund, which, according to the calendar’s site "advocates cures and treatments of MS, promotes artistic expression through circus arts and enables those affected by MS to pursue their passions. 100% of the net profits from the sale of each calendar goes to the Judy Finelli Fund."
Socially Conscious Clowns
2009 Calendar Funds MS
Trend Themes
1. Socially Conscious Fundraising - Opportunities for fundraising can arise through creative, yet socially conscious projects, such as the Naked Clown Calendar's proceeds to fund research for Multiple Sclerosis.
2. Artistic Expression for Patient Support - Promoting artistic expression through charitable efforts, like the Judy Finelli Fund for Multiple Sclerosis, can provide patients with a positive platform to pursue their passions.
3. Creative Social Responsibility - Businesses may benefit from embracing creative social responsibility as a means of supporting important causes while also enhancing their brand image and sales.
Industry Implications
1. Nonprofit Sector - Nonprofit organizations can consider incorporating artistic and creative projects into their fundraising efforts to attract donors while still serving their missions.
2. Entertainment Industry - The entertainment industry can align with similar non-profit endeavors such as the Naked Clown Calendar's support of medical research and artistic expression for those with Multiple Sclerosis.
3. Corporate Social Responsibility - Companies with strong corporate social responsibility values may see success adopting creative fundraising efforts tied to important causes, such as MS research supported by organizations like the Judy Finelli Fund.