Every three seconds a child as young as eight years old becomes a bride. VOW for Girls, a global organization, is working to end the international child marriage crisis and disband this horrific statistic. In recognition of today, Oct. 11, as International Day of the Girl, join VOW in their “Stop the Clock” initiative to raise awareness and funds to help bring this devastating crisis to an end. 

In partnering with brands, individuals, and the wedding industry, VOW supports local efforts whose aim is to advance girls’ rights by providing education, job training, and vital life skills. Over 175 community based organizations and an estimated 260,000 girls have been directly impacted by VOW and the work done in partnership with grantee organizations—85% of which are led by women. This International Day of the Girl, VOW has partnered with luxury wedding designer Justin Alexander, leader in wedding planning The Knot, and a generous private donor to bring to light and to support the work of these initiatives. 

“I’m excited that our community of brands and the wedding industry are rallying together on International Day of the Girl,” says Clay Dunn, CEO of VOW for Girls. “From our poignant campaign video that features girls across the globe from our grantee organizations sharing their hopes and dreams for the future, to brand partnerships, and more, this year’s multifaceted campaign continues to raise awareness and encourages supporters to take action.”

Today, every like, comment, and share of VOW’s social content will relay as $1 from the sponsors—for up to $100,000—to help young girls across the globe have a new future. All of the donations directly support grassroots efforts providing critical resources to girls at risk of child marriage. During the “Stop the Clock” campaign, tune in via social media to learn more and hear celebrities and influencers—such as Kristen Bell, Julia Haart, and Freida Pinto—share their personal responses to the crisis. Each of these participants discuss the power in providing girls the freedom to dream and decide their own futures, which includes making their own decisions about marriage.                  

“We want every girl to have the future she deserves – one that is happy, healthy, and of her own choice,” says Mabel van Oranje, co-founder and board chair of VOW for Girls. “This year’s campaign is more critical than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic has put millions of girls at a higher risk of child marriage. It is essential that we act urgently to address this crisis that is happening around the world.”