 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
|
| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Laura Kassebaum, MPH, CHES, Travelers Aid Society of Los Angeles, 1720 North Gower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028, (323) 468-2500, laura@tasla.org
The street youth who use the services provided by Travelers Aid Society of Los Angeles/Teen Canteen are at high risk for contracting and transmitting HIV and other STDs given their lifestyles and risk behaviors: high drug use, serial monogamy and multiple partners, survival sex, and frequent unprotected sex. "For Love or Money" is a peer education program that targets these high-risk street youth. The primary objectives of "For Love or Money" are: (1) to educate homeless and runaway youth about HIV/AIDS and other STDs; and, (2) to create an environment where individuals can develop skills that will help them protect themselves from becoming infected with diseases while also helping them to improve their overall health and well-being. Over 500 people have participated in at least one component of the program from January 2001 to December 2002. Quantitative data shows that participants have shown an immediate increase in knowledge and in some cases an increase in attitudes and behavioral intentions. Qualitative data indicates that contact with the peer educators, the case managers, drop-in center services, and access to risk reduction materials makes a difference for the clients in their overall quality of life, as well as in changing or maintaining some risk behaviors in the short run.
Learning Objectives:
Related Web page: agency's web site: www.tasla.org
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: I am employed by Travelers Aid Society of Los Angeles. The program is funded by the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, Office of AIDS Programs and Policy. Evaluation data management and analysis is conducted in collaboration with Children
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am employed by Travelers Aid Society of Los Angeles. The program is funded by the LA County Department of Health Services, Office of AIDS Programs and Policy. Evaluation data management and analysis is conducted in collaborarion with Childrens Hospita