Lena Wikner & Kathleen Pruitt: Founders of African SHADE
Lena and Kathleen have known each other for a long time, having first met while working together at a drug and alcohol treatment center in Santa Cruz, California.
It was there—walking alongside individuals affected by substance abuse, trauma, and brokenness—that they discovered a shared calling and a growing passion for Africa.
Out of this, African SHADE was born—a faith-based mission dedicated to restoring lives affected by substance abuse and domestic violence, with a focus on supporting women, children, and families. What began as a burden in their hearts has grown into a vision centered on transformation, bringing healing, stability, and lasting hope through recovery, community support, and practical programs.
Through faith and perseverance, Lena and Kathleen have now stepped fully into this calling, serving in Africa where their vision is lived out daily. Their work focuses on empowering individuals to rebuild their lives, develop essential life skills, and embrace opportunities for growth within a supportive and nurturing environment.
Kathleen brings her passion for art into the mission, using creativity as a tool for healing and expression, especially among children. Lena, a devoted athlete, hopes to use sports to inspire discipline, confidence, and positive engagement among young people.
Together, they reflect the heart of African SHADE—building a supportive community where resilience is nurtured, lives are restored, and families are given the opportunity to thrive.
Mark & Terri Toback, Advisory Committee
Over the years, Mark and Terri have remained closely connected to the heart and mission of African SHADE, offering steady guidance and encouragement as the vision has grown.
Their strong foundation of faith, combined with practical wisdom, has helped shape the direction of the ministry, ensuring that both spiritual values and operational decisions remain aligned.
With a shared passion for seeing lives restored, they continue to play a vital role in strengthening the work—supporting growth, sustainability, and long-term impact in the communities.
Their continued involvement reflects a deep commitment to the vision of African SHADE, as they actively support both the spiritual and practical needs of the ministry.
Tom & Heath Havlick, Advisory Committee
Heath has cared for the poor in a variety of ways since childhood, currently serving as an adult literacy tutor and helping distribute food to those in need through her church.
Her strong compassion for the overlooked, combined with a desire to see lives transformed by God’s love, aligns deeply with the mission of African SHADE and its focus on restoration.
With a shared commitment to supporting Lena and Kathleen’s vision, Tom brings encouragement and practical involvement, having participated in outreach efforts in nations facing great need.
Their continued involvement reflects a deep passion for seeing individuals restored and strengthened, as they support both the spiritual and practical work of the ministry.