From November 1st until December 20th I will be giving up alcohol for charity. Not just any charity though, the worlds top five charities (according to GiveWell.org).

I am doing this because I've recently become interested in the philosophical movement Effective Altruism. And I have been inspired to do the most good I possibly can with the amount of money I can raise.

The five charities on my list are as follows:

1. Against Malaria Foundation
2. Schistosomiasis Control Initiative
3. Deworm the World Initiative
4. GiveDirectly
5. Development Media International

You probably haven't heard of these charities before but a lot of research has gone into showing that they are the best and most effective for helping save the lives of the greatest number of people.

This is my first charity fundraiser, and while it is based on the principles of Effective Altruism, the personal element that I've added is that I will be giving up alcohol for fifty days. (And if you know me, you'll know that this will be difficult). If you would like to know a more about my reasons for doing this then please read my blog here:

https://unclespinnydervish.com/2016/09/26/effective-altruism-going-sober-for-charity/

So that is my goal. I want to raise enough money to help the greatest number of people using reason instead of passion. If you have been convinced that my cause is noble, and would be willing to donate an amount of money you think would be appropriate -say, the price of a pint of beer!- it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much!

If you would like to keep track of my sober adventures then follow me on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/fifty_days_sober/