The "Group of Hope" project was established during June 2002 when a group of inmates had attended an HIV/AIDS course. At the end of the course the inmates talked to their social worker, Mr Jacobus Pansegrouw, and mentioned that they feel the need to share the information that they received during the course with fellow inmates. For Mr Pansegrouw it was surprising to realize that in a maximum correctional centre there are inmates in detention that want to do something for their fellow man without receiving compensation. He grasped for the opportunity to bring out their feeling of caring for others and to make sure something good came out of it.Several meetings with the inmates had taken place and the "Group of Hope" was born. The group members were assisted with several skills, developing of a constitution and launching of projects.
This unique project namely the Group of Hope is the first of its kind in the world whereby maximum classification prisoners "adopted" HIV/AIDS orphans from the community and reach out to others in need with projects as mentioned, keeping within the boundaries of their restricted area. Whenever we see something or hear of something we can do to improve someone’s live, we are motivated to start something new. There is NEVER a lack of enthusiasm and initiative!
Source:www.groupofhope.co.za
