In January, 2005, a group of concerned people in Irvine, California came together to talk about the millions of children in Africa devastated by the AIDS pandemic and how we might help. Like many Americans, we had become increasingly aware of AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children due to documentary films including "The Orphans of Nkandla," efforts of celebrity activists like Oprah Winfrey and Angelie Jolie, and the research of economists and humanitarians including Jeffrey Sachs. While we wanted to help, we were discouraged by the fact that far too often much of the money donated to help never reaches those in need. During this initial meeting, we agreed that we would work together to organize a grass roots, community response that would focus on supporting programs and services for children in one community. After considering our options we decided to support programs and services in the community of Nkandla, South Africa. The Africa Project is governed by a Volunteer Board of Directors, enabling us to direct the money we raise to support direct services on the ground in Africa. In addition, board members travel, at their own expense, to Nkandla, South Africa each year to assess the needs of the community, establish and maintain relationships with local stakeholders and service providers, and to ensure that our support is benefiting children in need. The Africa Project - "Together, there are so many lives we can change."