Dear Friend,

The statistics show the devastation! More than 39 million affected worldwide. 25.4 million in Sub-Saharan Africa. 15 million orphans so far and many more to come. In South Africa, the infection rate is 25%. Unfortunately, I could go on. The simple but terrible fact is that the HIV/AIDS pandemic is sweeping the globe with a death rate that takes a life every 12 seconds!

When International Bible Society (IBS) began looking at this tragedy and asking what God wanted us to do, He led us to develop a new program for young people called "Reach 4 Life." The program is based on a proven abstinence-based approach and focuses around a special book: a full NIV New Testament with extensive, youth-friendly helps. The book, developed in conjunction with South African youth pastors and other experts, features:

• An opening section called "Suicidal Sex," an in-your-face discussion about sexual purity, abstinence before marriage, and faithfulness in marriage.
  
• A closing section that challenges young people to join a spiritual revolution and start a relationship with Jesus Christ.
  
• A series of Bible studies that lead youth toward Jesus and His plan for their lives.

IBS introduced Reach 4 Life in South Africa and is expanding it globally. In Africa, there is a proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." I invite you to learn more about Reach 4 Life and how you can "go together" with us to seal off the next generations of young people from HIV/AIDS.

Thank you for visiting this website. Please explore how you can make a life-and-death difference for young people.

In Him,

Mike Richards, Sr.
President/CEO
International Bible Society