FAQs
> Why did iThemba AIDS Foundation become EngageHIV Foundation?
> What is EngageHIV?
> Where does EngageHIV operate?
> Who controls and manages EngageHIV?
> Who supports EngageHIV?
> How does EngageHIV work with its partners?
> How does EngageHIV choose its partners?
> Does EngageHIV only benefit Christians?
> How does the 100% action guarantee work?
> How are donations distributed and used?
> How can I support EngageHIV?
> How can I get more information?
> What is EngageACTION?
Why did iThemba AIDS Foundation become EngageHIV Foundation?
Whilst going through a process of review, we decided to make a significant change to help us build credibility and raise awareness of our work in the future. iThemba AIDS Foundation changed its name to EngageHIV Foundation in May 2009. This name helps us to be more distinctive in the HIV arena, which is crucial for a small organisation. We want our supporters and partners to be clear about who we are in terms of our values and ethos and vision to bring hope to people affected by HIV and AIDS. And, after all, engaging people is at the heart of all that we do.
We engage local partners on the ground and help enable them to bring hope to their communities. We engage young people in the UK and US through www.engagehivaids.com so they can play a part in responding to the HIV crisis. And, we increasingly want to engage our supporters not only to give financially, but to pray for the work and become involved in other ways through advocacy and volunteering.
Having consulted with the Board of Trustees, staff team and some supporters, we felt that it was the right time to change our name, before we made any more progress in building awareness in the UK, US and Africa.
We have kept our look the same, because our name may have changed, but our vision, values and way of going about our work all remain unchanged. And, we’re still partnering with the same projects on the ground as we enable local churches and faith-based organisations to respond to the HIV crisis in their communities. You’ll recognise the half sun in our logo: a reminder that EngageHIV is still about bringing hope to people affected by HIV and AIDS.
What is EngageHIV?
EngageHIV Foundation is a Christian charity group, which was set up in 2002 as a response to the devastating HIV/AIDS pandemic. The core aim is to bring hope to those suffering from HIV and AIDS, by enabling local people in sub-Saharan Africa to help their communities in practical ways.
Where does EngageHIV operate?
All of the HIV/AIDS projects we support are run by local people for local people in sub-Saharan Africa – currently in Burundi, Kenya, Malawi and South Africa. Find out more about where we work.
Who controls and manages EngageHIV?
Monique is the Executive Trustee and manages EngageHIV on a day-to-day basis while Liz runs the work on the ground. Liz is supported by Flora. Our Investment Committee decides how partner support is allocated and we have Trustees in the UK and a board in the US. Meet the team
Who supports EngageHIV?
EngageHIV relies on the continuing generosity of many supporters, including individuals, charitable trusts, churches and young people without whom we could not continue our work. If you are interested in supporting EngageHIV, visit the 100% action section to find out how you can get involved.
How does EngageHIV work with its partners?
EngageHIV does not run projects on its own. Instead, we partner with existing community-based organisations and churches. We provide prayer and financial support, and can also offer expertise and training as and when necessary.
How does EngageHIV choose its partners?
Our Field Director, Liz Ling, identifies new opportunities for partnerships and then there is an application process. The Investment Committee discusses all applications.
All of our partners share our Christian values and are committed to best practice in terms of the management of their project and the practical work they do. Organisations who are looking for funding can contact us.
Does EngageHIV only benefit Christians?
No. Although the motivation for EngageHIV’s work comes from our Christian beliefs, our partners serve all people – regardless of race, religion, gender or nationality.
How does the 100% action guarantee work?
Every penny you give will go directly towards bringing hope to people affected by HIV and AIDS. The trustees cover all the operational costs of the UK and US charities. Find out more in the 100% action section.
How are donations distributed and used?
All donations received are passed on to partner projects in sub-Saharan Africa. All projects are working to care for those affected by HIV and AIDS and also to prevent the spread of the disease. Partners are required to have transparent bookkeeping systems in place prior to funding and once a partnership is established, regular reporting mechanisms and site visits ensure that the money continues to be well used.
We do not spend money on capital projects like orphanages, big building projects or expensive equipment. Instead, we support local partners looking to provide excellent basic care for people; ensuring that those who are sick are cared for physically, emotionally and spiritually. Through education programmes, we help them understand the disease so they can better plan their future and that of their children. We also support increasing numbers of people who have access to antiretroviral therapy – drugs which control the disease. HIV is a preventable disease so a key part of our work is partnering with HIV prevention programmes.
How can I support EngageHIV?
There are many ways that you can get involved. Visit 100% action for more information about prayer and financial support. And remember, 100% of your donation goes to help people affected by HIV and AIDS.
How can I get more information?
This website contains information on HIV and AIDS, our organisation and work, and ways that you can take action. Sign up to our quarterly e-newsletter for regular updates and stories about how EngageHIV brings hope and changes lives in Africa. You can use our contact us form to get in touch.
What is EngageACTION?
Inspired by faith and motivated by love, EngageHIV believes that a movement of people who live lives of justice, hope, action and love really can change the world. EngageACTION gives you the opportunity to join the struggle against HIV and its impact across Africa. There are big and small ways to get involved, and through EngageHIV you have the power to make a difference. Go to the EngageACTION section for more.
