The AIDS pandemic is one that was born and reached its peak in our lifetime—many still remember when the U.S. Centers for Disease Control first recognized the disease in 1981. Since then, it has caused the deaths of more than 46 million individuals. Today, through the work of UNICEF and its partners, we have an unprecedented opportunity to wipe the disease from this planet by virtually eliminating all new HIV infections among children within the next three years. How can we accomplish this? It starts by believing in zero.

Last month, Seija Toro, the UNICEF Representative in Costa Rica, visited the U.S. Fund in New York to share with us what UNICEF is doing to narrow these incredible disparities so that all children have a fair shot at a healthy and productive life. One particular program—“Growing with Music”— literally has everyone listening. Growing with Music is a music education program supported by UNICEF that seeks to promote early childhood development and improve school readiness and life skills for children.