Introduction to the issue-Advances in HIV prevention, care and treatment have led to substantial decreases in HIV-related mortality in New York City (NYC). However, these decreases are not equally distributed, leading to some groups experiencing higher rates of mortality (e.g. intravenous drug users, women, non-white PLWH). Evidence and theory:-Advancing health equity is a goal across the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). Community engagement is an essential aspect of DOHMH’s work in this area. In Principles of Community Engagement (developed by US Department of Health and Human Services), community engagement is recognized as a key component of public health improvement efforts. Description of program activities-The NYCDOHMH used two approaches to engage Ryan White Part-A (RWPA) funded HIV service providers and other relevant stakeholders in addressing premature death among PLWH. First, service providers met in groups to review surveillance data on deaths among PLWH in NYC to examine trends in mortality and to discuss root causes and opportunities for intervention. Second, during NYCDOHMH’s annual quality improvement conference for HIV services, service providers, PLWH who use HIV services, and other stakeholders throughout the HIV-service system participated in an interactive, open forum to review mortality data, discuss root causes for disparities in mortality rates among PLWH, and draft strategies for addressing premature death. Participants were divided into groups and focused on five known factors for premature mortality substance use, diabetes, smoking, pregnancy risk and mental health. Conclusions-Over 55 HIV service providers, consumers of HIV services, and other stakeholders convened to address disparities in mortality among PLWH. Within groups, participants used lived experiences with HIV and/or experience serving PLHW to develop creative strategies/interventions to deliver targeted services aimed at factors associated with premature death. The groups presented their strategies to their peers with an emphasis on how to recognize vulnerable PLWH within the community. Recommendations for practice-Addressing health disparities requires the engagement of community stakeholders. RWPA-programs should continue to seek out opportunities to creatively collaborate with providers, consumers of services, and other community members within their programs to develop interdisciplinary strategies that address root causes of public health challenges.