H.E.R.O.’s Passion
To improve the quality of life for children infected with and affected
by HIV-AIDS through enriching programs, unforgettable experiences, and
connections with the community.

H.E.R.O.’s Commitment
All H.E.R.O. programs & services are offered at no cost. Approximately
33 percent of H.E.R.O. children are HIV positive and the other 67 percent
have an infected parent/guardian, sibling, or residential family member.
Roughly 25 percent of H.E.R.O. children have lost a parent to HIV-AIDS
complications. Almost 90 percent of H.E.R.O. children come from
families whose household incomes are $10,000 or less.

H.E.R.O.’s Purpose: Quality of Life
We define quality of life (QOL) as the degree to which an individual
enjoys physical, social, and emotional well-being, and sees themselves
as being able to experience future success. Under this umbrella we
offer support through mentoring relationships, life skills development,
recreational activities and expanded life exposure via a variety
of opportunities and experiences.

H.E.R.O.’s Courage
H.E.R.O. was founded in 2003 by two University of Georgia graduates
(Ryan Gembala & Garrett Gravesen) who had two separate-but similar
experiences working alongside children infected with and affected by
HIV-AIDS in Brazil and Africa. They observed that though the children’s
basic needs were being addressed, they received no specific QOL care
services. They decided to explore this problem in Georgia. Research found
that of the 500 organizations serving persons with HIV-AIDS in the state, only
12 provided services to children, and none addressed the QOL needs of these
children. As a result, H.E.R.O. for Children was created.

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