September 12, 1943 – January 21, 2009
A Mother in Spirit, Faith, and Compassion
Barbara Battle was more than the beloved mother of Ministry of Hope’s founder — she was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. From the very beginning, she stood alongside the vision of the ministry, nurturing its mission with prayer, presence, and deep compassion.
A woman of grace and humility, Mrs. Battle—affectionately known as “Mother Battle”—embodied the heart of caregiving. Her life was a living testimony to selfless service, not only to her family but to countless others in the community who found in her a mother’s warmth and a friend’s faithful support.
She journeyed with Kimberlin on many Healing Weekends, quietly ministering to those in pain with gentleness and strength. Her words of comfort, her embrace of understanding, and her steady spirit brought healing to those who felt unseen or forgotten.
Her voice still echoes in the heart of this ministry through one of her most memorable and profound reminders:
“You don’t have to be infected to be affected by HIV and AIDS.”
With those few words, she invited everyone—regardless of their story—into a place of empathy, advocacy, and belonging. Her legacy continues to shape the Ministry of Hope’s mission and message, reminding us that love without judgment and service without hesitation are among the greatest gifts we can offer the world.
We honor her life, we cherish her memory, and we continue her work—one heart, one hand, one hope at a time.
October 14, 1959 – February 25, 2016
First President of the Ministry of Hope
Jacqueline “Jacqui” Hatten was a visionary, a creative spirit, and a woman of unwavering faith. As the first president of the Ministry of Hope, she played a foundational role in turning a dream into a mission.
When Kimberlin first shared her vision for the ministry, Jacqui responded in the way she always did—with prayer and purpose. Together, they entered into a season of spiritual discernment and practical planning. Jacqui brought the creative heartbeat to the ministry, always finding joyful, imaginative ways to raise support—from unique fundraisers to community outreach that reflected her vibrant personality and deep compassion.
Jacqui’s journey took a difficult turn when she was diagnosed with neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC), a rare and aggressive form of cancer that begins in the body’s neuroendocrine cells—specialized cells that help regulate essential functions like hormone balance, digestion, and respiration. NEC is particularly challenging because it often develops silently and spreads quickly, making early detection difficult. It can arise in various organs, including the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and skin. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and emerging targeted therapies.
Despite the gravity of her diagnosis, Jacqui remained a light to those around her—her faith unshaken, her spirit resilient, her love for others undiminished. Her legacy lives on through the Ministry of Hope, which continues to carry her vision forward: to be a place of faith, creativity, and unwavering hope for all who walk through life’s most difficult trials.
January 16, 1970 — November 11, 2025
A Faithful Servant, Community Leader, and Beloved Member of the Ministry of Hope
Clinton was a man of wisdom, compassion, and quiet strength—an unwavering servant whose life’s work was centered on caring for others. His journey with the Cuyahoga Regional HIV Prevention and Care Planning Council began in 2008, marking the start of nearly two decades of dedicated service to individuals and families impacted by HIV in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County.
As the longtime Co-Chair of the Strategy & Finance Committee, Clinton brought a rare and invaluable gift: a mind for numbers and a heart for people. He skillfully navigated the complex responsibility of managing and allocating millions in Ryan White Program funds—ensuring that critical services reached those who needed them most. During the annual Priority Setting & Resource Allocation (PSRA) sessions, Clinton’s leadership was unmistakable. With his ever-present notebook in hand, he could recall past allocations with ease, anticipate shifts in community needs, and offer wise, thoughtful counsel grounded in truth. He wasn’t afraid to speak up—always advocating for what was just and right.
Clinton’s leadership was a powerful reminder of how those living with HIV are not only survivors but also builders of systems that offer care, dignity, and hope. His voice will be deeply missed, but his legacy remains a cornerstone of the work he helped shape.
Outside the Planning Council, Clinton also lent his voice and insight to the ACTU Community Advisory Board, where his presence brought peace, wisdom, and steady encouragement. His contributions were always marked by clarity, respect, and a deep love for the community.
Clinton was also a cherished part of the Ministry of Hope, where he found a home among fellow believers and friends. His ministry was not limited to boardrooms or meetings—it extended into the kitchen, where he shared another of his many gifts: the gift of food. Clinton’s meals were more than nourishment; they were acts of love. Whether preparing a dish for a community event or quietly blessing someone with a warm plate, he served with joy, humility, and generosity.
Clinton’s passing is a profound loss—for our community, for the Ministry of Hope, and for all who were blessed to know him. Yet even in this sorrow, we give thanks for a life so faithfully lived. His leadership strengthened vital systems of care, his service uplifted hearts, and his kindness reminded us all of the power of quiet, consistent love.
As we carry forward the mission he held dear, may we do so with the same integrity, grace, and dedication that marked Clinton’s every step.