THE DRUMBEAT - January 2025
Global Camps Africa equips South Africa’s vulnerable youth with the tools and knowledge to lead healthy, empowered lives and make positive impacts on their communities.
Report from the Field
We're (almost) back! After taking a brief pause for the holidays, Camp Sizanani Life Skills' programs are about to start up again, and the vochellis couldn't be more excited to be reunited with their campers! Youth Clubs will reopen for returning campers on February 1, with new camper registration occurring in the weeks to follow.
In the meantime, our vochellis hosted a very productive "Fathers Matter" workshop in collaboration with Heartlines, a South Africa-based organization that promotes positive values in everyday life. Through their "Fathers Matter" program, Heartlines creates a national conversation about why fathers matter in the lives of children, and shares resources to promote positive fatherhood.
Thanks to Heartlines, our vochellis are now equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to help our campers and their families discuss important issues, heal traumatic wounds, and build healthier relationships with one another.
GCA FOUNDER WINS PRESTIGIOUS ICF AWARD
Congratulations to our founder! We are honored to announce that the International Camping Fellowship (ICF) has unanimously selected our founder and president, Phil Lilienthal, to be the 2024 recipient of the Abbott Fenn Druzhba Award!
"Without a doubt, your leadership and the legacy of Global Camps Africa has been spectacularly transformative and impactful," writes the ICF nominating committee. "The magic of the camp experience, in your thoughtful and kind hands, has created an experience that is not only unique, but has been a shining example of what can be accomplished with vision, integrity and determination. And clearly Global Camps Africa stands alone as a camping program of the highest order."
Congratulations, Phil, on this much-deserved recognition! We are proud to have you leading us. Read the full ICF announcement here.
BREAKTHROUGH IN HIV/AIDS RESEARCH
One step closer to a cure! While current medications can be used to stop the symptoms of HIV and prevent its spread, a cure has yet to be found. One major challenge is that HIV can enter a dormant-like state, hiding in the body and evading treatments, only to reactivate later. HIV hiding in the brain is particularly difficult to access.
In a recent study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), researchers explored a potential solution by testing a drug called BLZ945. The results suggest that using medications like BLZ945 to target macrophages — a major source of the spread and replication of HIV in the brain — may be a promising strategy for removing infection from these tissues. This medication is currently being tested in human clinical trials.
For our campers, so many of whom have been impacted by HIV/AIDS, this cutting-edge research inspires hope, representing a significant step forward on the path toward a healthier, happier future for themselves and their communities. Read the full study here.
Demand for our life-changing programs is on the rise.
Please consider making a donation to support our growth!