A new name but the same mission - meet Hope Rises International

Published on March 19, 2025

For over 100 years, American Leprosy Missions has brought healing and hope to people suffering from neglected tropical diseases like leprosy. Today, their mission continues under a new name that better reflects the full scope of their work: Hope Rises International.

"Our new name captures everything we do, everyone we serve, and the purpose that has guided us since 1906—to live and proclaim the gospel while bringing healing to those in need," says  Bill Simmons, President and CEO. "As we refocus our ministry to meet these needs and prepare our ministry for the next century of service, we recognized that our name should clearly and compellingly reflect the hope, healing, and transformation only found through Jesus. Hope Rises International does just that. It shifts the focus from disease alone to the people we serve and the hope we seek to spread."

For more than a century, American Leprosy Missions has brought healing and hope to people suffering from leprosy. Today, their commitment to this mission is stronger than ever. At the same time, leprosy does not exist in isolation. Many affected individuals also suffer from related diseases and the deep stigma that prevents them from seeking care.

As AML's work has grown, so has their responsibility. By expanding HRI's work through local Christian partners, HRI seeks to serve more people with a three-fold focus: 

  • Healing – ensuring timely detection, accurate diagnosis, and quality treatment for people suffering from leprosy and other skin NTDs.
  • Christian Partnerships – training, supporting, and equipping local churches and Christian organizations to serve those suffering from disease and isolation.
  • Long-Term Care – providing emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being support, helping people rebuild their lives.

‍Today Hope Rises International (HRI) trains, supports, and equips Christian partners to provide long-term, holistic care to people suffering from leprosy and related neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Leprosy remains a core focus of their work with a strong commitment to continue to detect cases early, provide quality treatment, and ensure long-term, holistic care.

The name Hope Rises International honors the legacy of American Leprosy Mission while embracing the future—ensuring that hope rises for all those living with disease, isolation, and stigma. 

 

For more information, please visit www.hoperises.org