About Gentle Hands Foundation
We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the burden of diabetes through education, early detection, prevention, advocacy, and compassionate community support — in Nigeria and Houston, TX.
250+
People Educated
115+
Free Screenings
25+
Volunteers
2
Countries Served
Our Mission
Gentle Hands Foundation exists to reduce the burden of diabetes by empowering individuals and communities through education, early detection, prevention, advocacy, and compassionate support.
We work to ensure that every person — regardless of where they live or their financial circumstances — has the knowledge, resources, and opportunity to prevent diabetes, manage it effectively, and live a healthier life.
Our Vision
“A world where diabetes no longer limits lives because every community has access to the education, support, and resources needed to prevent, detect, and manage the disease.”
Adaora Umeh
Founder & Executive Director
“I started Gentle Hands Foundations because I watched too many people suffer from a disease that education could have prevented. That is still why we do this work every single day.”
Adaora Umeh is a public servant, global advocate, and nonprofit leader whose passion for improving health outcomes was shaped by her experiences living and working across different parts of the world. While living in Nigeria, she witnessed the devastating effects of undiagnosed and unmanaged diabetes on individuals and families. Seeing lives lost to a disease that is often preventable and manageable inspired her lifelong commitment to diabetes education, awareness, and advocacy.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Adaora serves as a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Services. Her Career has also included leadership roles in human resources and healthcare administration, providing her with a diverse professional background in public services, organizational leadership, and community engagement. She holds a bachelor's degree in Healthcare Administration and Planning and a master's degree in International Relations.
Our Story
Gentle Hands Foundation was founded with a singular purpose: to bridge the gap between diabetes awareness and action. Inspired by the growing diabetes crisis in Nigeria and underserved communities in Houston, TX, our founder recognized that millions of people were suffering not from a lack of care, but from a lack of knowledge.
What began as a grassroots effort to educate communities has grown into a structured nonprofit with programs spanning two continents. From free screening events in rural Nigeria to community workshops in Houston, we meet people where they are.
Our name reflects our philosophy: that care, when delivered with gentleness and intention, has the power to transform lives.
See Our Impact
Our Core Values
These principles guide every decision, every program, and every interaction we have.
Compassion
We serve with empathy, dignity, and respect for every individual and family.
Education
We believe knowledge empowers people to make healthier decisions and improve long-term outcomes.
Equity
We strive to reduce health disparities by reaching underserved and vulnerable communities.
Integrity
We are transparent, accountable, and responsible stewards of the trust placed in us.
Collaboration
We partner with healthcare professionals, schools, businesses, volunteers, and community organizations to create lasting impact.
Empowerment
We equip individuals with the tools, confidence, and support they need to take control of their health.
Where We Work
Our programs span two continents, reaching communities in Nigeria and Houston, TX.
Nigeria
We conduct free diabetes screenings, community health workshops, mobile health clinics, and support groups across Nigeria — with a focus on underserved and rural communities where access to healthcare is limited.
Houston, TX
In Houston, we serve diverse communities through educational workshops, culturally responsive outreach, and partnerships with local healthcare providers — ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against diabetes.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Through community outreach, screenings, educational programs, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, we are building healthier communities — one person, one family, and one community at a time.