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Home > The Reason for Hope

The Problem

The magnitude of the AIDS epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa rivals the effects of the bubonic plague on Europe in the Middle Ages. In some countries one third of the adult population is infected.

A supreme test for the western world is to show compassion in the face of such suffering.

The Hope

Beacon of Hope (BOH) is a non-profit organization in Nairobi, Kenya that was created in 2001 to address the HIV/AIDS pandemic and its affects among women in poor communities. Jane Wathome founded the organization in order to bring hope, significance and self-worth to women affected and infected with HIV/AIDS.

Beacon of Hope programs are designed in a way that ensures the women and orphaned children are provided with future opportunities. They receive training from experts in various fields to perform tasks that will provide sustainable income. These programs empower both women and children legally, spiritually and economically, making them more productive in society. The programs are provided at no cost to the women and orphaned children. Beacon of Hope has also developed programs to assist the community in the prevention and management of the HIV/AIDS virus. The organization is influencing changes in the legal, cultural and economical structures and practices that lead to the discrimination of women infected with HIV/AIDS.