By Elizabeth Seward

You may have heard about Oxfam by now, whether through [url='http://www.oxfam.org.uk/generationwhy/blog/2007/02/scarlett-johansson-goes-to-india-and.html']Scarlett Johansson[/i] on Hollywood Green or in other ways. However, hearing about something really doesn't tell you a whole lot unless you know details. For instance, what IS Oxfam? How can you help? Well, here are some answers for you.

Oxfam is a confederation of 13 different organizations that have all joined hands to help find solutions to poverty and injustice in over 100 countries. Oxfam works with over 3,000 partners to improve the lives of the poor and to influence the powerful so that their message can be spread. They were founded in 1942 in England as the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief and have grown exponentially since.

Oxfam encourages their supporters to back them up in multiple ways. If you're interested in strengthening this organization like Scarlett, perhaps you can do one of the following for Oxfam:

- CAMPAIGN FOR THEM. Oxfam believes in campaigning for policy and practice changes regarding fair trade, climate change, debt relief, conflict and humanitarian response, universal basic education, the global arms trade, and poverty reduction. You can help by being a part of these campaigns.

- VOLUNTEER FOR THEM. Volunteering your time with Oxfam can help to save the lives of people living in far less fortunate conditions across the world.

- WORK FOR THEM. If you're ready to devote your career to Oxfam, they may have a position available that is perfect for you.

- DONATE TO THEM. If you don't have the time to work, volunteer, or campaign for Oxfam; you can still do your part. You can donate to the Oxfam location nearest you.

If you're interested in any of these possibilities, you can find out more on Oxfam's site.

Oxfam is just one of many great organizations that you can join up with to help the world become a healthier and greener place. Over the next weeks, Hollywood Green will showcase other organizations that are worth looking into, too, so keep tuning in!