Problem: HIV Prevention initiatives targeting high risk youth often lack strong community collaborations between organizations and leaders. HIV infections continue to occur annually at high rates among youth under the age of 25. Gay, bisexual, African American, and Latino/a youth are at increased risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). Targeted HIV/STI prevention programs are needed to reach these populations and youth and key leaders should collaborate in the development of these interventions.
Methods: This project is a demonstration project for the length of three years, and eminated from the Pennsylvania HIV prevention community planning process. An HIV/STI Prevention Theatre Demonstration Project has been developed through the collaboration with and expertise of youth, state and local organizations (Pittsburgh Playback Theatre, Youth Empowerment Project, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, PA Department of Health) and local community leaders. Youth involvement on all levels of the project has been essential.
Conclusions: At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Identify the need to collaborate with organizations and community liaisons on the local and state level; 2. Identify key partners in their own communities; 3. Recognized the importance of youth involvement and direct participation in developing HIV prevention interventions; and 4. Describe the challenges in the initiation and management of a theatre based HIV prevention intervention.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: HIV Interventions, Youth
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.