Objectives: Graduate students at Florida International University assisted the South Beach AIDS Project in developing appropriate evaluation methods of a primarily Latino population of transient MSMs in South Beach, Florida. Students via first-hand field experience utilized the input of multi-ethnic MSMs in developing formative, process and impact evaluation methods in HIV/AIDS prevention programming. Methods: Preliminary analysis was done of the demographic nature of the South Beach community. A survey was developed and distributed to assess current prevention activities, attitudes and behaviors among young MSMs between the ages of 18 and 29 of which a majority were of Latino origin. MSMs were surveyed on two different occasions utilizing a central location method for locating respondents. Results: A preliminary discussion of findings was held with agency, funders and community members. A draft report was prepared utilizing student’s findings which was presented to funders and agency. Evaluation results were utilized in the continuation of Project Quest as well as the basis of continued graduate evaluation exercises at Florida International University. Conclusions: Based on findings, cultural appropriateness and inclusion of the multi-ethnic target population in planning need to be foremost in prevention planning. The issue of the transient nature of the MSM who lives or frequents South Beach requires constant re-evaluation of prevention program objectives.
Learning Objectives: During this session, speakers will explain the challenges involved in working with a transient, vacation community of MSMs. Speakers will review the procedures that were utilized for involving this population in both planning and research of South Beach. Speakers will discuss ongoing research in the South Beach community of Miami Florida. Finally, speakers will provide training on the pitfalls commonly encountered in community/student research projects
Keywords: Latinos, Community Planning
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Florida International University - research institution
South Beach AIDS Project - community based organization
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.