Julius Coles [1], the President of Africare [2], will discuss programs that are addressing the critical needs of that continent's population. News reports about event Africa are often disconcerting -- wars, ethnic conflict, environmental degradation and economic dislocation. But Africans, with the help of individuals who understand local needs, are making a difference. For instance, since 1987, Africare has supported both national and local initiatives in Africa to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Africare's HIV/AIDS Initiative includes programs in: HIV prevention and voluntary counseling and testing; care and support for people already infected with HIV or suffering from AIDS; and assistance to orphans. NoVES proudly supports this effort.