Sharing Messages of Hope, Compassion, and Prevention...
Although originally founded to provide kids with the “best week of their lives,” One Heartland's role as a leader in national HIV/AIDS awareness efforts quickly emerged. Although many of the campers were living in secrecy and fear, several courageous children were inspired by their experiences at Camp to speak out about issues impacting families touched by HIV/AIDS. In 1994, to help those brave children and teens share their important messages, Camp Heartland started the Journey of Hope AIDS Awareness Program.
The Program
At Journey of Hope presentations nationwide, the children of One Heartland speak openly and honestly about their experiences with the disease. By sharing their personal stories they make a powerful impact – much more than simply sharing statistics about the disease. They recite poetry, sing, dance, lead skits, and most importantly, connect with audience members. We are convinced that these children have not only touched lives, but also saved lives.
Since its inception, One Heartland's Journey of Hope program has visited more than 100 schools, universities, churches, and community groups reaching tens of thousands of individuals. Whether speaking to an audience of 10 people or 10,000 – we always share five important messages:
1. AIDS IS PREVENTABLE.
Only four fluids transmit HIV: blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk. Avoiding swapping these fluids can prevent the transmission of HIV and help ends AIDS.
2. AIDS IS NOT TRANSMITTED CASUALLY.
It's safe to be a friend to someone who is HIV positive or has AIDS. You can hold hands, hug, play sports, drink from the same water fountain, and do many more everyday activities that friends share.
3. ALL PEOPLE WITH AIDS DESERVE COMPASSION.
Whether HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex, HIV-infected blood products, I.V. drug use, or to a baby born to an HIV-positive mother - all people deserve to live with dignity and respect. Until there is a cure for HIV/AIDS, the one thing we can all do to help those who live with this disease is to be a friend.
4. GET TESTED.
If you have ever been sexually active or have shared needles when using I.V. drugs it is important to get tested. For information on anonymous and confidential testing sites in your community, call the National HIV Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS or visit www.hivtest.org.
