This presentation will discuss the development, implementation, and evaluation of creative theatrical scenarios as a tool to reach women at risk for HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). A health jurisdiction with increasingly high rates of STDs and HIV/AIDs among women, collaborated with a local women's HIV support group to develop a program targeted at minorities, drug and alcohol addicted women and sex workers. The program is designed to raise awareness, increase self-esteem, and promote screening and testing of HIV and refer the targeted high risk population to medical and social service agencies in the community. The program presents educational material through a series of workshops that depict topics through creative theatrical scenarios. The scenarios developed by the department's physician assistant, a local HIV physician, and the women's group include the "Dating Game", to illustrate disease symptoms; "Do You Want To Be A Millionaire" to articulate self-esteem issues; "Survivor" to convey personal responsibility; and "Let's Make A Deal" to present decision making regarding unprotected sex and drug and alcohol use. Over 200 clients have participated in this program over the past year with a demand for additional workshops.
Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the importance of collaboration with community partners. 2. Describe a new and innovative approach to increasing self-esteem in a high risk population. 3. Discuss the importance of engaging and educating people using theatrical and entertaining approaches.
Keywords: STD Prevention, Decision-Making
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.