Dominican University, Main Library, 50 Acacia Ave., San Rafael, CA 94901

The Grassroots Alliance for Community Education (G.R.A.C.E.) presents an exhibit that explores the myriad ways in which East African communities are responding to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. G.R.A.C.E. partners with African community-based organizations to address the diverse, complex issues that stem from HIV/AIDS. Whether comm- unity groups teach, support, heal, care, feed, or house those in need, all are inextricably intertwined in their efforts.

This exhibit showcases photographs taken by photojournalists Theo Steemers and Karen Ande during visits to Kenyan community partners with Natasha Martin, founder of G.R.A.C.E. Their images introduce you to the world of rural Kenya and how its people deal with specific problems AIDS creates in their hometowns. Projects are as diverse as the community's needs and include dairy goat rearing for people living with HIV/AIDS, preventive education for traditional midwives and healers, programs in sustainable agriculture and youth development and many, many more.

This exhibit shows that the most effective, practical responses to AIDS come from locals who are familiar with the needs of their communities and mindfully address critical local issues.  G.R.A.C.E. works to develop a network of vibrant, healthy, resourceful and self-sustaining African grassroots organizations dedicated to improving community health, education and welfare.