Health Education Africa Resource Team, founded by Auburn woman, celebrates 25 years of orphan prevention

The Rocklin Event Center was filled with joy, gratitude and inspiration as HEART (Health Education Africa Resource Team) celebrated its 25th anniversary on Sept. 12. Friends, partners and supporters gathered to honor a quarter-century of life-changing impact while looking forward to an even brighter future. Founded in 2000 by Auburn resident and missionary nurse Vickie Winkler, HEART was born in response to the cries of HIV-positive mothers in Africa facing death from AIDS and fearing for their children's futures. Orphan prevention, keeping Mom alive, well and working to provide for her own children. Out of that calling, HEART has grown into a thriving ministry throughout Kenya that has empowered thousands of women and children. HEART has supported the advanced education of their children, seeing them holding positions as doctors, nurses, teachers, etc. A generational impact. HEART's programs focus on four core pillars: Health, Education, Economic Empowerment and Discipleship. Mothers enrolled in HEART receive critical medical care to stabilize their health, then training in income-generating activities. These skills provide a sustainable livelihood, allowing them to support their children with dignity. Just as importantly, HEART's Discipleship Program helps mothers grow in faith, offering strength and hope in Jesus as they navigate life's challenges. The gala, themed "25 Years of Impact," honored this extraordinary journey. Guests celebrated HEART's beginnings, reflected on its present work and looked boldly toward the next chapter: continuing to empower mothers, transform communities and spread healing and hope through the love of Christ. One of the evening's most anticipated moments was the raffle of a luxury sapphire and diamond jewelry set, generously donated by Golden Swann Jewelers, owned by Auburn's Ben and Margareta Asgharzadeh. Valued at $11,000, the set featured a teardrop platinum pendant with a natural sapphire surrounded by 1.5 carats of diamonds, displayed on a 14kt white gold chain. The matching snowflake-style Omega-back earrings sparkled with sapphires and diamonds. Excitement filled the room as attendees purchased raffle tickets in support of HEART's mission, and the crowd cheered when Sandra Perkins was announced as the lucky winner. HEART also recognized Century Commercial Service, another Auburn-based corporate sponsor, whose partnership and generosity helped make the 25th anniversary celebration possible. Together with Golden Swann Jewelers, Century Commercial Service exemplifies how local businesses can make a global impact by investing in compassion and community transformation. The gala was more than an anniversary party – it was a testimony to what can happen when individuals and communities come together for a greater cause. Special thanks were given to corporate and table sponsors, hosts, volunteers and the many friends of HEART whose generosity fuels the mission every day. "Whether you've been with us since the beginning or have just joined our journey, your presence made this milestone truly special," Winkler said. "Doug Juday, US executive director, and Nicholas Kamatu, Kenya executive director, will lead us as we step into our next 25 years. We do so with renewed energy, gratitude in our hearts, and prayers for a strong finish to our year so we can continue to serve more women and children in Kenya." For more information about HEART and its programs, visit www.africaheart.com.