REACH is a unique service provider located in the Pacific Northwest for an isolated and ethnically diverse population of children and families, addressing a distinct unmet need where traditionally the community and faith-based ministries have not ventured. The mission of REACH Ministries is to build relationships with youth and families affected by HIV/AIDS to equip them to experience God’s design, which is a lifetime of hope and purpose. Since its beginning, REACH has advocated for the children and families whose needs were neglected, serving the hidden population in our communities living with HIV/AIDS.

Through weekend camps, special events and its year-long mentoring program REACH staff and volunteers provide safe, fun environments and supportive relationships for the more than 300 family members they serve annually. Since 1996, every Labor Day, families come from across the United States to REACH Camp. Camp offers a safe haven, a place to openly grieve the loss of loved ones, and a place to develop community with people in similar situations. Camp is where trust is built. It is an escape into a carefree world that families don’t experience for most of their daily lives.

Medical innovations have impacted the REACH population and over the years have given the gift of a potentially full life to those born with HIV. Children who were born with HIV fifteen to twenty years ago were not expected to live past eight or ten years. Those same kids, now young adults, have a life expectancy that approximates that of a healthy adult. In addition, perinatal medications can now prevent HIV transmission from mother to infant, which nearly eradicates the spread of the disease from birth (in the United States). Most new families to REACH are those who are adopting kids from other parts of the world who didn’t have access to medical care, perinatal medications or formula options. REACH receives referrals from Seattle Children’s Hospital, Oregon Health and Science University, Madigan Army Medical Center, MultiCare Health System and various other health and community organizations.

Despite all the changes for the positive in the medical aspect of living a life with HIV, what has not changed is the isolation, fear and trauma associated with living HIV positive. REACH Camp, retreats, activities, and mentoring continue to provide a judgment-free environment for the kids and families. With your generous support we will help sustain REACH’s expanded ministry to love, serve and support even more families in the Pacific Northwest, and across the country.