Blog Background

We figured we should explain a little about our Ghana trip for the readers.

A friend of Lori's had volunteered with BASICS International (read about the organization here). BASICS aims to increase literacy in Ghanaian youth. After contacting the director of BASICS, we were able to identify a need for an HIV prevention program within the organization. Between Liz's nursing background, Lori's Health Promotion/Education background, and Courtney's impressive PhD candidate credentials in Public Health, as a team we were able to get this program in motion. We had a lot of help from willing professors from UNLV (Dr. T-R, Dr. Chino) and Dr. Barbara Turner (Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania) who were willing to assist us in the planning process.

So why Ghana? Why HIV?

Sub-Sahara Africa is disporportionately affected by HIV. 68% of all infections globally occur in this region of the world. 12 million children have lost one or both of their parents to HIV or AIDS. This just scratches the surface of the issues these people face- the spread of HIV in Ghana is deeply rooted in cultural, economical, and social determinants. Our specific program is targeted toward Ghanaian youth, age 10-20 years old, in hopes to increase prevention strategies. We have a myriad of activities planned in order to acheive this goal.

We are ecstatic for the opportunity to go to Ghana and hope we can made a difference!