mothers2mothers

mothers2mothers (m2m) seeks to prevent HIV infection in babies and improve the health of mothers living with HIV by putting mothers at the heart of its work to eliminate pediatric AIDS.

m2m's aspirations and approach are:
   • To prevent transmission of HIV from mothers to their babies
   • To improve the health and well-being of mothers and babies by facilitating access to essential services and medical care
   • To counter stigma by investing in women living with HIV, helping them live positive and productive lives

m2m uses a simple and proven model to eliminate transmission of HIV from mothers to babies and sustain the health of women and children. It educates, employs and empowers mothers living with HIV, who work as Mentor Mothers in health centers to provide lifesaving information and one-on-one support. m2m believes that defending healthy motherhood is essential and ending pediatric AIDS is possible. It believes the time for both is now.  

In 2011, m2m enrolled a total of 242,635 new women into their PMTCT program. Approximately 1,500 HIV positive women are professionally employed across all sites as Site Coordinators and Mentor Mothers, providing high-quality psychosocial support and education to their peers.

Studies indicate that 97% of mothers who attend m2m sites for three or more visits are tested for their CD4 count, and 92% of women attending m2m three or more times are more likely to adhere to an ARV regimen. The Mentor Mother model also contributes to the destigmatization of HIV.

In Kenya, 84% of mothers attending m2m four or more times disclosed their status, compared to a baseline of only 53% having disclosed. An independent evaluation conducted by the Population Council in South Africa demonstrated that m2m had a significant impact on critical components of preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services.  

m2m encourages supporters to donate to the organization in order to make sure that it reaches the goal of eliminating pediatric AIDS by 2015 and keep mothers alive. Supporters can they can "like" m2m on Facebook and follow the organization on Twitter, to stay informed of happenings at mothers2mothers. They can also write to their Congressional representative showing their support for PEPFAR and funding that supports women and children in Africa.

While m2m is based in South Africa, its Los Angeles office is responsible for partnership development, fundraising, and advocacy. m2m’s Southern California peers and supporters are some of the most generous anywhere and the organization welcomes their engagement.

Selected Awards:
Henry R Kravis Prize in Leadership
Claremont McKenna College, 2012

Frontline Heroes in Health Award
Global Business Council, 2012

Active Citizenship and Public Service Alumni Award
Awarded to Robin Smalley
Tufts University, 2011

Best Practice Award
Global Health Council, 2010

Social Entrepreneurship Award
Impumelelo Innovation Awards Trust, 2010

Africa Regional Social Entrepreneurs Award
Awarded to Dr. Mitch Besser & Gene Falk
Schwab Foundation, 2009

Presidential Citizens Medal
Awarded to Dr. Mitch Besser
President George W. Bush, 2009

Award for Social Entrepreneurship
Skoll Foundation, 2008