Thank you for visiting the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project.

South Africa is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It is a kaleidoscope of rich cultures, vast and diverse grasslands, ancient forests and unforgettable savannahs. These landscapes are home to an amazing array of animals — elephants, leopards, giraffes and zebras — found no where else on the planet.

Sadly, in contrast, South Africa has one of the largest number of HIV infections in the world. Having grown up there, I know all too well the many challenges facing young people, especially those living in rural communities. In some remote areas, South African teens have an almost 50% chance of contracting HIV during their lifetime.

Despite these unacceptable statistics, I believe there is reason to hope. As a first initiative, we are working in collaboration with Oprah's Angel Network to provide lead funding to create a mobile health and computer clinic that visits high schools in rural communities among the poorest and most severely affected by HIV and AIDS. The mobile clinic has been very well received by the people it serves, and is already providing young South Africans with the health education, treatments and computer training needed to help overcome the challenges they face.

During my recent visit, I had the privilege of spending time with students as they shared their hopes and dreams for a better, healthier life. As a native South African, I am totally committed to helping them achieve those dreams. I hope you will join me in supporting the Africa Outreach Project to help the big-hearted people of this struggling but extraordinary country overcome the obstacles to building better lives.

Sincerely,

Charlize Theron