FAQs
> What is iThemba?
> Where does iThemba operate?
> Who controls and manages iThemba?
> Who supports iThemba?
> How does iThemba work with its partners?
> How does iThemba choose its partners?
> Does iThemba only benefit Christians?
> How does the 100% action guarantee work?
> How are donations distributed and used?
> How can I support iThemba?
> How can I get more information?
What is iThemba?
iThemba AIDS 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 iThemba 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, South Africa and Tanzania. Find out more about where we work.
Who controls and manages iThemba?
Monique is the Executive Trustee and manages iThemba on a day-to-day basis while Liz runs the work on the ground. Liz is supported by Nikki and Wambui. 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 iThemba?
iThemba 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 iThemba, visit the 100% action section to find out how you can get involved.
How does iThemba work with its partners?
iThemba 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. Some of our projects have similar names to ours like “iThemba Lethu”. These are partner projects and not projects run by iThemba.
How does iThemba 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 iThemba only benefit Christians?
No. Although the motivation for iThemba’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 iThemba?
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 iThemba brings hope and changes lives in Africa. You can use our contact us form to get in touch.
