Voices of the World
Speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves
Our Commitment
We are a non-profit founded and run by volunteers. None of the work we support or the funds we raise are hindered by admin fees or overhead. We believe in our work because it is valuable, not because we are paid to do it.
Our Story
In 2009 we founded Voices of the World with the goal to be a voice for the voiceless and to send and support people from our home nation, America, to speak with and on behalf of those who have no way to be heard. In an increasingly connected world, it is those who have no means of telling their story who remain disconnected and forgotten. We believe doing the work it takes to remember and re-connect to those the world is passing by.
Our Values
We believe in small work done by big hearts.
We believe that the worth of a person is in their personhood not their pocketbook.
We believe that there are things which can only be seen by eyes that have cried.
We believe in the worthiness of both love and lament.
About Voices of the World
Voices of the World is named and created for those throughout the world who suffer and yet cannot speak for themselves.
Voices of the World aims to speak of that suffering, both physical and spiritual, to those who have the resources to alleviate it.
Voices of the World sends and supports laborers who would give their hearts and lives to serving those who suffer.
Voices of the World is a registered 501(c)(3) organization based in Queen Creek, Arizona committed to sending and supporting missionaries to the poor and destitute of the world.
Voices of the World is proud to send missionaries to those who are in need around the world. Please see our “Get Involved” page to see how you can be involved in this ministry.
The leadership board of Voices of the World is made up completely of volunteers who have a heart to see missionaries sent and supported to all corners of the world. We believe in our missionaries and what they are doing. Right now the entire focus of Voices of the World is devoted to ensuring they are successful.
Ben Heller – Chairman of the Board
J.D. Mesnard – Treasurer and Board Member
Ajit Itty – Board Member
Lynne Hartke – Board Member
Rachel Hartke – Board Member
Vicki Heller – Board Member
Where We Serve
Mozambique, especially its vibrant capital city of Maputo, has a complex medical history marked predominantly by enduring challenges. Following its independence in 1975, Mozambique has made significant strides in developing its healthcare infrastructure, yet it remains burdened by limited resources and a high prevalence of diseases. Maputo, as the epicenter of the nation’s healthcare efforts, houses major medical institutions like the Maputo Central Hospital. Despite the dedication of healthcare professionals, the system struggles to meet the growing demands of a population that often faces serious health issues, including a rising incidence of cancer.
Today, Mozambique’s healthcare system is overwhelmed, particularly in providing comprehensive cancer care. The oncology ward in the Maputo Central Hospital is frequently at capacity and unable to accommodate the influx of patients in need of specialized treatment. Beyond the clinical aspects, the provision of compassionate care and community support is critically lacking. Patients and their families often navigate the challenges of cancer treatment without the necessary emotional and social support. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for a healthcare approach that not only addresses medical needs but also fosters a compassionate, supportive environment to help patients and their families cope with the immense physical and emotional burdens of cancer.
Quick Facts:
Common Language: Portuguese
Capital: Maputo
Population: 33 million
Independence Day: June 25
Location: South-Eastern Coast of Africa
Indian Ocean Coastline: 2700 kilometers
Currency: Metical
Cancer in Mozambique:
25,000 new cancer diagnoses per year.
20,000 deaths from cancer per year.
Cancer is the primary cause of death in people over 60 and the third leading cause of death for those 15-59.
Mozambique has one hospital with an oncology ward and a radiation-oncology ward.
Mozambique has 8 oncologists.
History of Mozambique
Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Prior to the arrival or Europeans on the continent, Mozambique was a mosaic of diverse ethnic groups and powerful kingdoms that thrived on trade and agriculture. The region’s rich cultural and economic history was marked by the presence of influential entities such as the Swahili city-states along the coast, which engaged in extensive trade networks across the Indian Ocean. Inland, kingdoms like the Great Zimbabwe and later the Mutapa Empire exerted significant influence, controlling vast territories and engaging in commerce with Arab and Persian traders. These interactions facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, laying a complex and vibrant foundation for Mozambique’s historical narrative.
Our Project – Casa Ahava
In 2013, We opened Casa Ahava (which means “Home of Love”) as the first and only hospice and convalescence home in Mozambique for men and women with cancer.
Founded and directed by Jon and Layne Heller and their family, Casa Ahava is a 19 bed home which is open to Mozambican men and women who journey alone with cancer, especially those who are in late stages.
Casa Ahava is funded entirely by the donors to Voices of the World and is free to every person who comes to be a part of the community there.
Give to Voices of the World
We have no admin overhead, no fees, everything donated to VOTW goes directly and entirely to the work we do in Mozambique.
Contact VOTW
info@votw.org
