AIDS Foundation's Programs Work to Build and Mobilize Community

The programs of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation work to mobilize and empower at-risk communities to control their own HIV-related health and promote self-advocacy. Community mobilization efforts can play a key role in changing the course of the epidemic by encouraging dialogue about HIV and fostering social support networks, which can help address issues of isolation, depression and substance use.

The San Francisco AIDS Foundation provides a variety of community programs and invites interested individuals to participate:

GAY LIFE works with gay and bisexual men who use drugs, particularly crystal methamphetamines, to help them understand the connections between their substance use and its impact on their sexual health and emotional and physical wellbeing. This is done through education, peer support, and alternative social activities. HIV is discussed in the context of their whole lives and overall health. For information about upcoming workshops, call 415-788-LIFE or visit www.gaylife.org.

BLACK BROTHERS ESTEEM (BBE) promotes the sexual health and well-being of African American same-gender loving   men through a weekly drop-in group, workshops and community-building activities. BBE addresses not only the issues of HIV, but also the challenges of poverty, substance use and racism. For information about upcoming activities and events, call 415-487-8018 or visit www.sfaf.org/bbe.

THE LATINO SUPPORT GROUP is the longest-running bilingual support group for Latinos living with HIV in the United States. This group is open to all HIV-positive Latino/as and their family members, and provides a safe forum to share information on managing HIV and reducing the transmission of HIV. For more information, call 415-474-8034.