Project Kindle | Project Kindle was established in 1998 by Eva Payne, who saw few programs being offered for youth infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. The organization began by serving fifty children and adolescents from the Midwest United States through a cost-free, one-week summer camping session known as Camp Kindle.
Today, Camp Kindle serves hundreds of young people every year. Project Kindle has expanded to further improve the quality of life for children, young adults, and families through recreational experiences, educational programs, and support services.
Beyond recreational opportunities, Project Kindle has established three additional arms dedicated to fulfilling the needs and impacting the lives of those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Their SPEAK OUT program is a peer-to-peer speakers' bureau designed to reduce stigma and raise awareness. A scholarship program exists to support young people impacted by HIV or AIDS who want to attend post high school education. Finally, the "i know" initiative is an awareness and education program fueled by a compellation of stories, photos, and drawings of Camp Kindle participants. Each year Project Kindle touches the lives of over 15,000 individuals.
For more information on Project Kindle, visit their website at www.projectkindle.org.
