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Demetrius Porche, DNS, Associate Dean for Research and Evaluation, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 931 Independence ST, New Orleans, LA 70117 and Robert Swayzer, MPH, Brotherhood Incorporated, 1661 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, 504-566-7955, Rswayzer@aol.com.
Background: Minority community-based organizations (CBO) are well suited to provide HIV/AIDS prevention services based on their access to at-risk and vulnerable populations. The Southern Louisiana AIDS Coalition (SLAC) Capacity Building Assistance Project represents a network of 12 minority CBO. SLACs goal is to decrease the incidence of HIV/AIDS among at risk minority populations by increasing the capacity of CBO located in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana to provide quality HIV prevention and care services. Methods: Each minority CBO completed an in-depth organizational assessment focusing on organizational infrastructure, strategic development, board functions, financial management, human resources, leadership and management effectiveness, physical and technological resources, outcome measurement and utilization, and program planning, development and implementation. Findings: The greatest capacity building needs identified include board development, financial planning, strategic planning, technology training, and program design and evaluation. Conclusions: Minority serving organizations must have the organizational infrastructure and capacity to implement sound and effective HIV prevention programs. Assessment results were utilized to develop individualized capacity building assistance plans for each organization. Assessment findings dictated focus areas for workshops and trainings for all SLAC members on financial management, board development, program planning, evaluation, and advocacy. A resource center has been developed for use by the 12 CBO agencies. Agencies are provided with opportunities to network monthly. Laptop computers have been provided as a means to increase the CBOs technological infrastructure. To increase knowledge regarding best HIV prevention practices, each agency is provided the opportunity to attend a skills building conference/training yearly.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Community Capacity, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.