Poz100 2013

A SMART+STRONG PUBLICATION DECEMBER 2013 POZ.COM $3.99

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CELEBRATING UNSUNG HEROES

OR THIS YEAR’S POZ 100, WE ASKED INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANizations to nominate an HIV-positive person in their community who is an unsung hero in the fight against AIDS. The individuals on this year’s list may not consider themselves to be heroes, but we do. Each person— in his or her own way—is taking a brave stand against the virus. They are fighting back. They do so, not because they’re seeking glory or accolades, but because fighting back is a means to their survival.

This year’s list is made up of 100 HIV-positive people from around the country who are committed to ending the epidemic. And because they are living with

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UNSUNG HEROES the virus themselves, they often have a unique understanding of what needs to be done and how best to do it. They know what it’s like to be newly diagnosed and how it feels to deal with HIV-related stigma and discrimination. They understand the challenges of accessing care, treatment and support. They realize that by sharing their stories, they are not only inspiring others living with the virus, but also empowering themselves and the entire HIV community.

We hope that the people we spotlight on this year’s POZ 100 inspire you as much as they’ve inspired us. They have the power and the passion to effect change in the world. Meet the 2013 POZ 100…

Volunteer Coordinator AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Positive since 1983 Jaci Adams is a 55-year-old transgender woman who h transt formed her experiences as an abused and neglected child into empowering lessons and advocacy for the neglected and vulnerable. She has been a long-term volunteer with the AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania and helps coordinate volunteers and educate others on HIV and transgender awareness. Jaci served as a member of the Morris County Planning Committee and the Philadelphia Trans-Health Conference Planning Committee.

She is a founding member of the Temple University Community Advisory Board and founded the People with Hope Trans Conference in 2004. Jaci is currently battling Stage IV cancer. But that isn’t stopping her: She sold raffle tickets for an AIDS Law Project fundraiser to her chemotherapy treatment team.

DORIAN-GRAY ALEXANDER Intern CHANGE Coalition New Orleans, Louisiana Positive since 2006

Dorian-Gray Alexander is very informed about Ryan R White Whi funding, health care reform and linkage to care and understands the importance of consumer involvement. He coordinates trainings for consumers and participates in a myriad of groups including the National Minority AIDS Council’s Treatment, Education, Adherence and Mobilization (TEAM) Navigators, the Department of Health and Human Services Medicaid Consumer Input Group, the NOLA Interagency Council to End Homelessness and the Ryan White Work Group. He is an at-large member of Louisiana AIDS Advocacy Network, chair of NO/AIDS Task Force community advisory board and a member of the National AIDS Housing Coalition and the LSU Health Sciences Center HIV Malignancy Consortium Advisory Board.

incarcerated HIV-positive and -negative men, and he was a panelist on the Gospel of Healing HIV Community Forum.

JEFF ALLEN

President Positive Champions Speakers Bureau Ormond Beach, Florida Positive since 1985 For the past 27 years, paying it forward has been b Jeff J ff Allen’s All ’ mission. He helps people overcome the depths of addiction and homelessness and take full control of their lives as he once did.

Jeff began the Positive Champions Speakers Bureau to allow individuals to speak to the community on the fear and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and the importance of staying in care after testing positive. Jeff is a co-chair of the Gay Men’s Workgroup Bureau of HIV/AIDS, and he sits on the board of several other area organizations. He is also involved with the local Ryan White consortium. Jeff cherishes the opportunity to help in whatever way he can—and to share and learn new ways of improving HIV/AIDS outreach efforts.

MARCO BENJAMIN

Condom Nation Program Manager AIDS Healthcare Foundation Los Angeles, California Positive since 2008 After being diagnosed with HIV in 2008, Marco Benjamin became involved in AIDS activism by attending protests and demonstrations against drug pricing. He eventually quit his job at an architectural firm and was hired as contractor to mobilize individuals for the Keep the Promise March at last year’s International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC. Currently, Marco is the Condom Nation program manager at AIDS Healthcare Foundation and spends the better part of the year in an 18-wheeler truck going across the nation distributing condoms and educating others about safer sex. Last year the program visited 45 cities and gave away 5.5 million condoms.

BRANDON ALLEN

BRYANT BERGERON

Brandon Allen found out he was positive at the S South th C Carolina li HIV/AIDS Council in 2010. He has since blossomed into an example of hope and inspiration for young African-American men and others in the community. He began as a volunteer and initiated a vision for young MSM who seek support and encouragement. While completing his bachelor’s degree in English, he enrolled in a series of HIV/AIDS prevention and behavioral riskreduction courses hosted by the CDC and was hired as a peer navigator and community health specialist. Brandon is also a community advocate and public speaker. He was recently the keynote speaker of a PHARAOH intervention program for

Bryant Bergeron discovered he was HIV positive i shortly h l after f leaving the military in 2001. For the next few years, he struggled with his diagnosis and drug addiction. Bryant is now a medical case manager at Nashville CARES and uses his personal experiences in his work with other people living with HIV. He interacts with clients on a holistic level, looking at both internal and external struggles to determine the best course of action. Bryant has also facilitated a monthly support group for HIV-positive gay men, helped at HIV testing events and fundraising events and has been a member of a planning group for agency events and outings. He embodies the belief that blurring the line

Community Health Specialist/Peer Navigatorr South Carolina HIV/AIDS Council Columbia, South Carolina Positive since 2010

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Medical Case Manager Nashville CARES Nashville, Tennessee Positive since 2001

(STAGE AND LIGHTS) THINKSTOCK; (HEROS) COURTESY OF INDIVIDUALS

JACI ADAMS

between “provider” and “consumer” improves the quality of services at Nashville CARES.

ISADORE BONI

Survivor/Educator/Advocate San Carlos Apache Tribe HIV/AIDS Coalition Phoenix, Arizona Positive since 2002 Isadore Boni is a member of the San Carlos Apache h T Tribe. ib Wh When he was diagnosed with HIV and hepatitis C in 2002, he was forced to leave the reservation because of stigma and he subsequently became homeless. After dealing with the rejection of his tribe and family, he went public with his story in 2004 on World AIDS Day. He continued to share his story in schools nationwide and began reaching out to the tribal council in hopes of bringing AIDS education to his people. Isadore eventually succeeded and became the tribe’s first HIV/AIDS consultant. He continues to educate people about HIV/AIDS and how we can eradicate stigma. Isadore serves on the National Native American AIDS Prevention Center’s Community Advisory Council and runs a half marathon each January in memory of Native people who have died of AIDS-related complications.

VERA BOWLBY

Peer Counseling Coordinator Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation Tucson, Arizona Positive since 1999 Vera Bowlby is responsible for overseeing the Peer Counseling Department at the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation. She provides superb guidance, direction and leadership for her team to ensure that all new clients receive the care and support they need. Vera uses her experiences as a person living with HIV to inspire those who are newly diagnosed. She is compassionate, empathetic and driven to help others. For people now facing the challenges of living with HIV, Vera sets an awe-inspiring example by demonstrating that the possibilities are endless.

GINA BROWN

Regional Organizer AIDS United Washington, DC Positive since 1994 As a regional organizer covering Arkansas, Texas and d her h home h state of Louisiana for AIDS United, Gina Brown works to help the HIV community understand what the Affordable Care Act means for HIV-positive people and advocates for expanded access to care. Through workshops, trainings and one-on-one conversations, Gina helps both individuals living with HIV and the agencies who serve them increase their knowledge of health care reform. Thanks to her efforts, advocacy coalitions are stronger and individuals are empowered to push for the policies that benefit them. The needs of women and girls are central to Gina’s work. She is a board member of the Positive Women’s

Network and ensures that the issues important to HIV-positive women and women at risk of HIV—such as intimate partner violence, economic inequality, reproductive justice and HIV criminalization—remain front and center.

MARISOL CALDERON

Board Member and Client Advocate Valley AIDS Council Harlingen, Texas Positive since 2011 After receiving a visit from the Texas Health Department t t notifytif ing her that she had been exposed to HIV—she subsequently confirmed she was positive—Marisol Calderon began to tell her story and educate others. She joined the board of directors of Valley AIDS Council—an organization that had provided her with specialized care and shoulders to lean on. Marisol soon became the client advocate, ensuring that the agency’s clients always had a voice at the table. In 2012, Marisol went public with her status in English and Spanish language television interviews. Marisol advocates for safer-sex practices and routine HIV testing, and her voice empowers Latinas. She urges women to protect themselves, to challenge their cultural norms and to openly discuss sexuality, which is taboo within Latino culture.

TONY CARLEW

Medical Case Manager Nashville CARES Nashville, Tennessee Positive since 2005 Tony Carlew found und out he was HIV positive shortly h l after f joining Nashville CARES in 2005. As a medical case manager, he provides HIV education and support and infuses his work with a tremendouss understanding of and empathy for the fears, concerns and challenges allenges faced by his clients. As part of CARES’ system of deploying g staff throughout the communit community ty to increase the visibility of ser services, rvices, Tony visits the HIV Wellness W Center at Meharryy Medical College weekly to o connect with staff and client clients. nts. He is also a singer-songwriter singer-songwriteer and is donating a portion port ion of sales from two new newly wly released singles from his selftitled record, Who Is Tony Carlew?, Carlew? w?, w? to the Nashville CARES AIDS Walk and UNAIDS.

CRAIG CHAPIN

Prevention Services Manager Colorado AIDS Project Fort Collins, Colorado Positive since 2002 Craig Chapin has been a volunteer and staff member for the Colorado AIDS Project (primarily as part of the Northern Colorado AIDS Project) for 17 years. He was instrumental in working on the negotiating team behind the successful merger of four AIDS service organizations in October 2011. He has been a strong advocate for the HIV-positive population and focuses on prevention efforts. Craig has made a significant impact on the organization’s success over the years. He is a true inspiration and a humble advocate for the community.

JOSÉ F. COLÓN LÓPEZ

Founder Pacientes de Sida Pro Politica Sana San Juan, Puerto Rico Positive since 1995 José F. Colón López was an activist and advocate t for f HIV/AIDS rights and services in Puerto Rico. He and his partner Anselmo Fonseca were inspired to create Pacientes de Sida Pro Politica Sana in 1999 after the San Juan AIDS Institute scandal. (Officials were eventually convicted of stealing more than $2 million in federal AIDS funds for personal and political gain.) José continued to be a defender of HIV/ADS funds, services and rights.

He spoke before the U.S. Congress on behalf of the Ryan White CARE Act in 2000. He was a brave and passionate person on HIV-related issues. Sadly, José died May 15, 2013, and on that day, the Puerto Rican HIV community lost a hero.

TOMMY DENNIS Speaking Volunteer Nebraska AIDS Project Omaha, Nebraska Positive since 2010

Tommy Dennis first came to the Nebraska AIDS DS Project (NAP) (NAP P) as a client when he was diagnosed with HIV. He now serves as a one of NAP’s most notable speakin speaking volunteers and advocates for th the cause. As a young, black man, man Tommy is an instrumenta instrumental spokesperson for those livin living with or affected by HIV/ HIV AIDS in the community, community especially within his demo demographic. He shares his story stor and provides education to reduc reduce stigma in a primarily conservative conservativ community in the Midwest. Tommy helpe helped develop and continues to maintain NAP’s NAP young adult support group, WHAAT! (Whoopin (Whoopin’ HIV and AIDS Together). He helps NAP wit with

its mission to fight stigma and has educated many people in the Omaha area about HIV/AIDS.

PENNY DENOBLE Founder and Director The Issue of Blood Denver, Colorado Positive since 1986

Penny DeNoble has been an educator, community it activist ti i t and d HIV advocate for 15 years. Her organization, The Issue of Blood, is an outreach and consulting service that aims to bring awareness, education and information about the prevention of HIV and other STIs and unplanned pregnancies. She collaborates with other AIDS organizations in the Denver area, and she sits on the board of The Greater Denver Interfaith Initiative and is the vice-chair of the Denver HIV Resources Planning Council.

Penny is a member of the 2020 Leading Women’s Society, The White House Project’s MAC AIDS Fund Advisory Committee, Positive Women’s Network, Treatment Advocacy Group and AIDS Alliance for Children, Youth and Families. Her goal is to help HIV-positive women reach their communities through education, leadership development and advocacy.

RUTH DERAMUS

Peer Educator/Advocate UAB 1917 Clinic/AIDS Alabama Birmingham, Alabama Positive since 2006 Ruth DeRamus was diagnosed with HIV when she h was in i her h 50s. When she found out she was positive, instead of retreating in isolation, she decided to use her story and experience to help educate others. Ruth has a smile that immediately puts one at ease, which is useful in her job as a peer educator and advocate at UAB’s 1917 Clinic. She serves as a representative on UAB’s advisory board and is the bridge and anchor for many HIVpositive people. Ruth helps individuals manage their HIV and gives them the opportunity for prolonged life and health with good decision-making.

JORGE DIAZ

Mental Health Therapist/Director Bienestar Los Angeles, California Positive since 2001 Jorge Diaz is a mental health therapist and director ctor of the mental health and substance abuse programs at Bienestar. He provides individual therapy to the HIV-impacted community and facilitates a support group for HIV-positive gay and bisexual men.

Three years after he was diagnosed with HIV, Jorge joined Hope’s Voice and traveled the country speaking to thousands of college students about HIV/AIDS. He then went back to school and received his master’s degree in social work and dedicated his career to helping individuals living with HIV/AIDS and addressing the related issues that affect the Latino community.

By sharing his story, Jorge continues to break down barriers and address the issues of shame, guilt and stigma.

SHEILA DILLON

Volunteer South Mississippi AIDS Task Force Biloxi, Mississippi Positive since 2003 Sheila Dillon has been a volunteer at the South outh Mississippi AIDS Task Force for 10 years, dedicating more than 5,000 hours to the agency during that time. Sheila volunteers on the HIV/ AIDS hotline weekly, and she also works tirelessly in the community providing HIV/AIDS education. A certified HIV/AIDS educator through the Mississippi State Department of Health, Sheila always goes the extra mile as an advocate and as a volunteer for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

DELORIS DOCKREY

Director of Community Organizing Hyacinth AIDS Foundation New Brunswick, New Jersey Positive since 1994 Deloris Dockrey is the director of communityy organizing for Hyacinth AIDS Foundation. She directs the successful One Conversation Project—a public education, AIDS prevention and community action campaign to raise awareness and encourage action to address the social crisis caused by HIV. She has trained and mobilized individuals to advocate for policies that impact their access to health care, treatment and support services. She holds a master’s in public health and has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the Ryan White Program legislation and HRSA mandates. Deloris serves on numerous boards, councils and committees and was the first woman to chair the Global Network of People Living with HIV/ AIDS. She’s also a member of the Positive Women’s Network and represents North America on the International Steering Committee of the International Community of Women Living with HIV/AIDS.

ED DOOLITTLE

Development Officer and Website Administrator or AID Atlanta Inc. Atlanta, Georgia Positive since 2004 Ed Doolittle has volunteered his time and talent l t with ith severall HIV/AIDS service organizations over the years. He currently serves as the development officer and website administrator for AIDS Atlanta. Ed has served the community by delivering meals and has helped fundraise for HIV housing through his office. He has also worked with various organizations to provide toys and school supplies for children who are living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Ed is a firm believer in harm reduction for HIV prevention, and he’s a big supporter of education and testing efforts.

DANIEL DRIFFIN

Project Manger Center for Health, Intervention and Prevention Atlanta, Georgia Positive since 2008 Daniel Driffin has made an impact by helping g lead and shape critical conversations about the lives of black gay men— especially those younger than 30. In 2009, he was selected as a recipient of the CRIBB Fellowship from NAESM (National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities). Daniel focuses on HIV prevention, and he has helped shape the HIV research agenda through his work as a project manger on the Think Twice: An MSM Serosorting Project with the Center for Health, Intervention and Prevention (CHIP) at the University of Connecticut. He has also facilitated numerous evidencebased interventions such as Many Men, Many Voices (3MV), d-up: Defend Yourself! and Mpowerment geared to young African-American men who have sex with men. Daniel serves as chair of the Young Black Gay Men’s Leadership Initiative, a national movement of young black men addressing issues disproportionately affecting peers around HIV prevention, care and treatment.

KARI FARMER-COFFMAN Women’s Outreach The Living Affected Corporation Barling, Arkansas Positive since 2010

Kari Farmer-Coffman was diagnosed with AIDS DS iin N November b 2010 and told she was going to die. Two years later, she became undetectable and has been sharing her story ever since. She’s posted it on YouTube and joined the RiseUpToHIV campaign.

Last year, she volunteered at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC. Working with The Living Affected Corporation in Arkansas, she helps HIV-positive women find jobs, health care, food, education and housing. Kari is a member of Campaign to End AIDS, the Arkansas HIV/AIDS Minority Task Force and the Positive Women’s Network, and she sits on the board of the River Valley Equality Center. She says her 8-year-old daughter gives her the strength to keep fighting.

MILLICENT FOSTER Advocate Baton Rouge AIDS Society Baton Rouge, Louisiana Positive since 2002

Millicent Foster is a fierce 53-year-old advocate for HIV/AIDS. Since going public with her status, she has been interviewed several times by the local news in Baton Rouge. She has participated in the Louisiana Public Broadcast Public Square Forum on HIV/AIDS and is presently taking part in a documentary about HIV/AIDS in Louisiana. Millicent sits on the board of directors of Baton Rouge AIDS Society. As a member of its “Keepin’ It Real” crew, she has spoken publicly on issues

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surrounding HIV and how it has affected her life. She is the founder of a female monologue group titled Phenomenal Women With Voices. Their main show, titled FREEDOM, highlights the social and personal issues that women face. The group has presented at numerous events throughout the South.

ROB GAROFALO, PHD, MPH

provides prevention, education, empowerment and advocacy programs for people living with HIV, and he sits on multiple coalitions and community groups throughout the Northwest.

He has participated in several national campaigns to address the issue of HIV/AIDS-related stigma. An avid cyclist, Benjamin is also the team leader of CAP’s Ride4CAP annual fundraiser.

Division Chief, Adolescent Medicine Center for Sexuality, Gender and HIV Prevention Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Chicago, Illinois Positive since 2010

JUSTIN GOFORTH

Rob Garofalo, MD, is a physician, researcher and d advocate d ffor the HIV/AIDS community. For years he worked with adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS at the Center for Sexuality, Gender and HIV Prevention. After his own diagnosis, he adopted a Yorkshire terrier puppy named Fred, who gave him the hope and inspiration to create the charity Fred Says, which raises money for teens affected by HIV. Initially it supported the work of the adolescent HIV program at Lurie Children’s Hospital, but starting in 2013 Fred Says also began supporting other organizations across the country. Rob has taken a part of his life that many seek to keep private and turned it into a vehicle that helps support the health and well-being of HIVpositive youth.

Justin Goforth often speaks to the media on health ealth topics such as home HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) and HIV prevention in high-risk communities. As director of community relations at WhitmanWalker Health (WWH), he provides technical assistance and guidance to local and federal governments and ensures that the needs of people living with HIV are raised at every forum.

He also serves on the DC Ryan White Planning Council.

While director of the Medical Adherence Unit at WWH, he and other team members helped revolutionize the manner in which people engage in and are retained in HIV care. The rapid enrollment program—dubbed “Red Carpet”—significantly increased linkage rates at WWH. To be sure, countless individuals are healthier because of the work that Justin does.

MARK GARRETT Client Advocate Spokane AIDS Network Spokane, Washington Positive since 1988

Previously an outreach worker with the Spokane AIDS Network, Mark Garrett currently serves as a client advocate. In this role, he has contributed to numerous planning councils including the Washington State Governor’s Advisory Council on HIV/ AIDS, Lifelong AIDS Alliance’s Statewide Public Policy Committee, the State and National (Ryan White) Quality Management Program Evaluation Group and the Consumer Advisory Group for the CDC and Washington State Medical Monitoring Program. In addition, Mark facilitates a monthly support group for clients and is always available to lend an ear. He informs the community through a quarterly newsletter and continues to advocate locally and statewide to ensure HIV/AIDS services are adequate and available for all.

BENJAMIN GERRITZ

Prevention with Positives Coordinator Cascade AIDS Project Portland, Oregon Positive since 2008 Benjamin Gerritz came to the Cascade AIDS Project j t (CAP) as a client in 2008. He has since dedicated his life to serving people with HIV, advocating for his community and empowering other HIV-positive individuals to take charge of their lives. Benjamin

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Director of Community Relations Whitman-Walker Health Washington, DC Positive since 1992

ELIZABETH HARRINGTON

Volunteer Southern New Hampshire HIV/AIDS Task Force Nashua, New Hampshire Positive since 1993 Elizabeth Harrington is a courageous young ng woman who openly shares her story of living with HIV while also raising an HIV-positive daughter. Elizabeth believes it is important to educate young people about the disease, so she’s the first to volunteer to speak at schools or other events when an HIV-positive speaker is requested. For the past three years, Elizabeth has volunteered as the front desk receptionist for the Southern New Hampshire HIV/AIDS Task Force. She has been a reliable, dedicated, long-term volunteer who supports the direct service staff and helps clients connect with their case manager. Elizabeth recently joined the Ryan White Part A Planning Council because she recognizes the importance of representing people in New Hampshire living with HIV/AIDS.

TAMI HAUGHT

Community Organizer Community HIV/Hepatitis Advocates of Iowa Network (CHAIN) Nashua, Iowa Positive since 1993 Tami Haught is a hard-working and humble person li living i with ih HIV and accomplishing highly effective work at the grassroots

level. She lives in a small rural community in northeast Iowa and has become the “Mama Bear” to an entire community of people living with HIV in Iowa. Tami recently coordinated the statewide campaign for reform of the Iowa HIV Criminalization Statute for CHAIN, a statewide advocacy group for people living with hepatitis or HIV. She is a board member of the Sero Project and is the president of Positive Iowans Taking Charge (PITCH), an educational, emotional and social support group.

She is also a member of the United States People Living with HIV Caucus Steering Committee. Tami grew up on a farm, where she was accustomed to hard work. Today, she is working just as hard on behalf of those living with HIV/AIDS.

ÁNGEL LUIS HERNÁNDEZ

HIV Community Educator National Minority AIDS Council TEAM Navigators Orocovis, Puerto Rico Positive since 2003 It took Ángel Luis Hernández six years to come out of the “HIV/ AIDS closet,” but he’s now an enthusiastic and committed advocate. He frequently participates in educational sessions, community forums, workshops and support groups and encourages empowerment of persons with HIV based on the Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV (GIPA) principle.

A certified HIV prevention counselor, Ángel has developed and presented oral expositions on a variety of HIV topics in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Health and local AIDS organizations. Ángel is a member of several boards and coalitions including the National Minority AIDS Council’s Treatment, Education, Adherence and Mobilization (TEAM) Navigators; the AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition; and the Puerto Rico Department of Health’s HIV Prevention Planning Group and its Ryan White Part B Planning Group. He is also the AIDS Clinical Trials Group’s Community Scientific Subcommittee representative on the executive committee of the Forum for Collaborative HIV Research.

ALFREDO HERNANDEZ CHAVEZ Senior Training & Technical Assistance Associate Education Development Center Waltham, Massachusetts Positive since 1993

Alfredo Hernandez joined the Health and Human Development Division (HHD) of the Education Development Center (EDC) after spending 15 years working with communitybased organizations in the Boston area. He now trains facilitators on evidence-based interventions and public health strategies, working to improve the capacity for cultural competency within organizations and to build partnerships between EDC and external organizations. By talking openly about his HIV status, Alfredo aims to give people information on how to protect themselves and others in their community. He frequently gives presentations to undergraduate students in the New England area and hopes to bridge gaps

between individuals and communities often missed by HIV outreach services. As a natural-born extrovert and networker, Alfredo flourishes in the training environment where he is certified to deliver trainings in both English and Spanish. He currently co-leads the HHD Diversity Committee and is also an undergraduate in Massachusetts’s Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor program.

KELLY HILL

Peer Advocate BABES Network–YWCA Seattle, Washington Positive since 2000 In 2001, Kelly Hill celebrated the birth of her HIV-negative son. Within a year, she learned she had AIDS. But Kelly continued to share her personal story through her work with the Whatcom County Health Department and the Evergreen AIDS Foundation. In 2005, Kelly moved to Seattle and became a peer counselor and coordinated the HOPE Project for BABES Network-YWCA. While continuing to share her story, she also used her skills and talents to coordinate and manage a program that had a broader reach. She trained other positive women to share their own stories and worked with them to be better advocates for their own health needs. Today, Kelly works at BABES part-time. She speaks at Seattle Public Schools and works with other community groups across the city to educate young people about HIV/AIDS. She is working toward her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her son Avram just started sixth grade.

JEREMY HOBBS

Founder and President The Chattahoochee Valley Better Way Foundation Inc. Columbus, Georgia Positive since 2003

Jeremy Hobbs created the Chattahoochee Valley Better Way Foundation during a time when few people in the South were willing to talk openly about their status. Its mission is to help provide and pave a better way of life for those who are affected by or living with HIV and to increase community and client awareness through quality education, support and training.

Jeremy was awarded the key to the city of Columbus, Georgia, by the mayor for his service to the city and his HIV/ AIDS work. He is a member of many organizations, including the National Prevention Information Network and the West Georgia Ryan White Consortium. Jeremy recently created an anti-stigma program called Rise Above HIV, which offers support, love and understanding for those living with the virus.

RICK HOLMAN

VANESSA JOHNSON

Rick Holman is the executive director of Butte te AIDS Support Services, a group of dedicated volunteers who provide emotional and financial support to those living with and affected

by HIV. Rick also serves on the Montana State Planning Group and travels across the state to share his wisdom and experience whenever possible. He gives individuals the strength they need to keep fighting, and he works tirelessly the entire year to spread awareness about HIV/AIDS. This year, Rick was honored to serve as the co-marshal of Montana’s Pride Celebration.

Vanessa Johnson is a long-term advocate for people eople living with HIV/AIDS and affected by social justice issues. She has spent 20 years creating consumer responsive services with an emphasis on women living with HIV, such as Common Threads. Vanessa currently serves as a director for the Ribbon Consulting Group, which provides consultation and technical assistance services to organizations and communities addressing a variety of health and social disparities. Vanessa previously served as a board member and executive vice president of the National Association of People Living with AIDS and is currently on the board of the National Women and AIDS Collective and the National Black Women’s HIV/AIDS Network. Vanessa is also on the steering committee for the United States People Living with HIV Caucus.

Executive Director Butte AIDS Support Services Butte, Montana Positive since 1998

ARTHUR JACKSON

Bridge Counselor/Care Coordinator Southern Regional Area Health Education Center Fayetteville, North Carolina Positive since 1990 Arthur Jackson works to educate individuals about b HIV/AIDS by finding effective and innovative ways to reach out to various communities. He facilitates the longest running Prevention for Positives program in North Carolina. He is also the North Carolina community mobilizer for AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

Arthur is the national co-chair for the Mid-Atlantic region for the Campaign to End AIDS, chair of the Cumberland County HIV Task Force and an active voting board member of the NC Statewide Community Planning Group. Arthur has also developed a one-day training program called P.R.I.D.E. (Positive Reflections of Individuals Developing Excellence) that helps teach young men how to make better decisions for themselves by developing better coping skills. Arthur continues to search for productive ways to eliminate health disparities in minority communities while also fighting HIV/AIDS.

ANTHONY JOHNSON Volunteer The PALS Project Fort Lauderdale, Florida Positive since 1995

Anthony Johnson is an 18-year survivor who h has h chosen h tto publicize his life with the virus and the obstacles he has overcome, appearing in local and national campaigns and media interviews. He hopes to reduce the stigma associated with the virus and help people understand that HIV can be a manageable disease. Anthony volunteers his time to several communitybased organizations including The PALS Project (Positive Action for Living Safely), and he helps link people to care, treatment and support services. Anthony also runs the monthly BOLT (Bringing Our Lives Together) group and co-facilitates the Health Living group at Fusion, an LGBT drop-in center. He is currently finishing up his bachelor’s degree in psychology.

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Director Ribbon Consulting Group Washington, DC Positive since 1990

BRYAN JONES

National Steering Committee Member/Advocate Campaign to End AIDS Cleveland, Ohio Positive since 1984 Bryan Jones has been fighting HIV/AIDS and d the th stigma ti and d discrimination associated with it for three decades. He is a national steering board member of the Campaign to End AIDS (C2EA), and he is on the planning committee of the C2EA National Advocacy Leadership Summit. He is a voting member of the Ryan White Planning Council and Consumer Advisory Board in Cleveland. Bryan is the founder of one of the largest men’s support groups in Ohio called Gentlemen’s Quarterly: Positive Men Doing Positive Things. Last year he performed his theatrical piece, titled A.I.D.S.…And I Die Slowly, at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC. Through character narrative and song, the autobiographical piece tells his journey of being positive and inspires audiences everywhere.

FREDA JONES

Peer Educator AbsoluteCARE Medical Center & Pharmacy Atlanta, Georgia Positive since 2002 When Freda Jones was diagnosed with HIV, she knew it was time to take a stand. The following year she began working at Aniz Inc, which focuses on women and children affected by HIV/AIDS. Freda became certified as a pre/post test counselor and facilitated several programs such as Reaching Out to Sisters with HIV/AIDS and VOICES. In 2007, she became the first female PEER 2 PEER Adherence Counselor at AIDS Survival Project. Freda was featured in a faith-based HIV education video HIV/AIDS: Have We Forgotten? which was nominated for a Telly Award in 2009, and she recently participated in the

nationwide “Greater Than AIDS” campaign. She is currently chair of the African American Outreach Initiative. This is one HIV-positive mother and grandmother who certainly knows how to take a stand.

ROBERT KNIGHT

LGBTQ Youth Prevention Educator Out! As I Want to Be Lewiston, Maine Positive since 1997 Robert Knight has worked with LGBTQ high-risk i k youth h for f four f years doing HIV prevention and counseling. He has put together fundraisers that have brought in over $20,000. Robert is part of a group called The HIV Warriors that does advocacy throughout Maine. He is also currently a board member of The Maine Gathering—an annual retreat for people living with HIV/AIDS. Robert is very open with his HIV status and his sexual orientation and spends his time raising awareness and reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS. Robert has suffered severe health problems including pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), meningitis and, most recently, large B-cell lymphoma, but this never deters him. He just keeps doing the work that needs to be done.

ROB LAND

Client Services Volunteer Douglas County AIDS Project Lawrence, Kansas Positive since 1993 Rob Land started volunteering at the Douglas County C t AIDS Project (DCAP) two years ago. He played an essential role in developing the DCAP Nutrition & Health Living Group in which a wide range of topics related to HIV/AIDS are taught and discussed. Rob also participates and volunteers for many events and fundraisers, including the Lawrence/DCAP AIDS Walk and Red Ribbon Art Auction. This year, he served on the Kansas City AIDS Walk steering committee. In addition to working with DCAP, Rob is on the Kansas Advisory Counsel for HIV/AIDS and has been a volunteer for many years at Hope Care Center of Kansas City, a medically staffed housing facility for HIV-positive residents. He is an advocate, a fighter and a friend to those living with HIV/AIDS

DOUG LANDRETH Prevention Coordinator OASIS Fort Walton Beach, Florida Positive since 2001

Doug Landreth has been a stable force in the d development l t and d growth of OASIS, a small AIDS service organization serving the four most western counties of the Florida Panhandle. He has held many positions over the years, and for the past four years, he has served as a prevention coordinator for the MSM and African-American HIV outreach programs. He also serves as a peer counselor in the OASIS HIV testing program. In

addition, Doug is active in the LGBT community and currently serves as the co-founder and director of Gay Grassroots of Northwest Florida. Doug helps out each year with the annual Positive Living Conference and the North Florida ManREACH gatherings—a health and wellness retreat for gay and bisexual men. Doug has been a strong voice for people living with HIV/ AIDS, as well as a strong voice for equality for all people.

AARON LAXTON

Case Manager Release to Rent Veterans Program St. Louis, Missouri Positive since 2011 Aaron Laxton got his start as an activist when h he outed t d hi himself lf under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, after he witnessed and endured harassment. When he was diagnosed with HIV in 2011, he took to YouTube to tell his story. In 2013, he was recognized by The Advocate in the “40 Under 40” issue for his work with HIV. Aaron works as a case manager with homeless veterans. He has led efforts regarding HIV criminalization and has worked with the Sero Project. He is a member of the Missouri HIV AntiCriminalization Task Force and speaks all over the state on topics regarding HIV and the prison population. Aaron is also an ambassador for The Stigma Project, a community advisory board member for the AIDS Clinical Trials Group and a blogger for TheBody.com.

DANIEL LEYVA

Senior Director of Prevention & Education The Latino Commission on AIDS New York, New York Positive since 1998 Daniel Leyvaa is the senior director of Prevention ti and d EducaEd tion at the Latino atino Commission on AIDS where he oversees the Latino Religious eligious Leadership Program, an initiative that promotes health alth education, HIV prevention and testing in communities of faith. He leads a statewide planning committee to produce Reunion eunion Latina, a regional, two-day wo-day training institute. Daniel niel has participated in several veral educational bilingual gual videos and often appears ppears on TV and radio o to talk a b out H I V-r -r el ate d issues. Daniel el previously ser ved on the planning committee for the National Catholic AIDS DS Network and was a board member er of the Episcopal Response to AIDS. He serves as board member of the Metropolitan litan Community Church of New York Charities harities and holds a degree in pastoral care and counseling and is working toward a degree ee in business administration.

MICHAEL LUCIANO

Both projects aim to reduce stigma through personal, firsthand accounts. The campaigns encourage conversations about HIV, testing and medication adherence. Through them, Kevin has created a supportive and a judgment-free zone for others who choose to share their stories.

Michael Luciano has more than 20 years experience perience in HIVHIV advocacy. He was involved with both ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) and Treatment Action Group. In 2008, Michael began volunteering at Lowcountry AIDS Services. He developed an educational session for the newly diagnosed which has since expanded to an HIV self-management session for a broader audience. Michael serves as the chairman of the MUSC/Lowcountry AIDS Services Consumer Advisory Board and was elected to the South Carolina HIV Planning Council.

He is a member of the Care & Support Services Committee and co-chair of the Peer Institute Development Project. He is also co-chair of the Charleston World AIDS Day 2013 Planning Committee. Michael hopes to forge links between the emerging activist community in the Charleston area and other patients’ rights groups at the state and regional levels.

LEON MANN III

Peer Educator Lowcountry AIDS Services North Charleston, South Carolina Positive since 1992

JIMMY LUCIBELLO Volunteer Fundraiser Frannie Peabody Center Portland, Maine Positive since 1989

Jimmy Lucibello has been the leading fundraiser for f the h SouthS h ern Maine AIDS Walk since its inception. The event raises over $40,000 each year to support the Frannie Peabody Center (FPC), whose mission is to prevent the spread of HIV and provide support for those living with HIV/AIDS in Maine. Jimmy previously worked in the prevention department of FPC and remains committed to the cause. He also volunteers for the New England AIDS Quilt and The Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce. In 2010, Equality Maine awarded Jimmy with the Cameron Duncan Award, recognizing his commitment and advocacy work for HIV/AIDS.

KEVIN MALONEY Founder RiseUpToHIV.org Minneapolis, Minnesota Positive since 2010

When Kevin Maloney was diagnosed with HIV V and d hepatitis h titi C in 2010, he chose to publicly talk about his diagnoses, experiences, struggles, strength and hope. He created RiseUpTo HIV—a website to educate and inspire others on a grassroots level utilizing all forms of social media. In January 2013, he started the “No Shame About Being HIV Positive” campaign.

Peer Advocate BEACON Project/Saint Louis Effort for AIDS St. Louis, Missouri Positive since 1985 Leon Mann III was the first peer advocate hired d as part off the h award-winning BEACON (Barrier Elimination and Care Navigation) Project. Since the project began three years ago, Leon has worked tirelessly to assist people living with HIV/AIDS to get back into care. Whether he provides “real talk” about substance use, a “just the facts” discussion of HIV medications or simply a shoulder to cry on, Leon is always available to the BEACON Project clients as they travel the road to self-empowerment. A long-term survivor with a personal story as varied as the history of the virus, Leon meets all clients where they are and helps them get to where they need to be.

ANTHONY MASELLI Volunteer and Advocate AIDS Project Rhode Island Providence, Rhode Island Positive since 2012

Anthony Maselli is an HIV educator, test counselor and advocate spreading a message of hope and calling for the end of shame, fear and stigma around HIV. Since his diagnosis in September 2012, Anthony has made it his mission to help others whose behaviors put them at risk for HIV. He believes that if HIV is talked about openly, then people will be more likely to get tested and be less likely to put themselves at risk for getting HIV. Anthony recently shared his story at the Rhode Island AIDS Walk for Life. In his blog, hstandsforhuman.com, he writes, “I want to spread a message of hope to the marginalized teenagers on the fringes of society and let them know that they deserve better.”

JOE MCADAMS

Prevention Program Coordinator AIDS Services of Austin Austin, Texas Positive since 1987 Joe McAdams has been a part of the Central Texas HIV community for almost 20 years. Before taking on his current role as prevention program coordinator at AIDS Services of Austin

The POZ (ASA), he worked with the Williamson County Health Department, The Wright House Wellness Center and Austin Travis County Integral Care. At ASA, Joe helps people face their HIV diagnosis, deal with mental health and substance abuse issues and navigate the system after incarceration. He makes the effort to know and support his clients as they face their fears related to living with HIV so he can steer them in the right direction for their practical needs.

RICHARD MCMAHAN Board Member Interior AIDS Association Fairbanks, Alaska Positive since 1998

In 2001 Richard McMahan realized a lifelong dream and d moved d to Alaska. He settled in a small community near Denali National Park. Since 2004 he has served on the board of the Interior AIDS Association (IAA). He was instrumental in linking the IAA to funding through proceeds from the annual Pygmy Tundra Buffalo Run and the Moose Scat Scoot. In 2013 he ran the 5K Moose Scat Scoot and has often volunteered as race support. Rick gives generously to his mountain community and to the IAA with both his time and money. In his presence, you can’t help but feel that no matter how hard things may be, you will get through it.

TOM MENARD

Vice President of Operations AIDS Foundation of Chicago Chicago, Illinois Positive since 1982 Tom Menard currently serves as vice president of operations at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC). He oversees the dayto-day internal functioning of the organization, making sure each department has everything it needs to function at its potential. But Tom’s greatest gift far exceeds his 28-year work experience in the field. As a long-term survivor, he is a historian of HIV/AIDS and brings a personal and heartfelt perspective of the disease to the office every day. Tom bridges the past and present, and his presence makes everybody’s work at AFC even more meaningful. Tom continually strives for equality, and he lives in hope that someday HIV will be no more.

ROBERT MENK

Volunteer Minnesota AIDS Project Eden Prairie, Minnesota Positive since 2011 Robert Menk first came to Minnesota AIDS P Project j t (MAP) iin the spring of 2012. He was looking for a way to connect with

and give back to the HIV community. He became a regular participant in MAP’s Tuesday Nighter program, a volunteer night devoted to tasks like assembling safer-sex and harm reduction kits, prepping testing materials and stuffing envelopes. Robert’s passion, pride and dedication to MAP led him to be recruited as an AIDS Walk captain who helped manage and improve the complex AIDS Walk registration process. One of his greatest contributions is that he always has an eye toward the client experience and regularly provides thoughtful and constructive feedback for improving the organization. He wants to see MAP serve people living with HIV as effectively and compassionately as possible.

HANK MILLBOURNE Chief Program Officer AIDS Partnership Michigan Detroit, Michigan Positive since 1996

Hank Millbourne has dedicated his energy, goodwill d ill and d compassion to serving people living with HIV in Detroit since 1990.

As an executive director, program officer, clinical social worker and ordained minister, he has fought stigma, discrimination, racism and homophobia quietly through his own example.

Hank was instrumental in the creation of the REC Boyz program to empower and support young gay men of color, and he served for eight years as the president of Detroit’s Black Pride Society. Always listening and learning, Hank is deeply knowledgeable about all aspects of HIV prevention and care, especially for communities that are often left out or ignored. For Hank, fighting AIDS and supporting people living with HIV are his ministry.

LUIS MONTANEZ

Peer Advocate AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts Boston, Massachusetts Positive since 1991 Luis Montanez has been living with HIV for 22 years and d iis a past client of AIDS Action Committee. Last year, he joined the agency as a peer advocate. He brings empathy and compassion to the work and freely shares his own experiences as a longterm survivor of HIV in ways that help clients connect with him. He is especially impressive when working with inmates at South Bay House of Correction. Luis is able to get these men to share difficult questions and painful realities as he facilitates raw conversations about what it’s like to live with HIV while incarcerated. He is able to connect in a meaningful and honest way with those society has left behind—those who are most vulnerable to HIV—and he is able to get them connected to care in ways that make measurable differences in their health.

JOSHUA MONTGOMERY

HIV Prevention Director The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada Positive since 1997 Ever since Joshua Montgomery discovered he was HIV positive, he has been active in various recovery programs to help those who, like himself, struggle with addiction. He has been sober for the last 16 years. Josh focused on becoming a counselor and began working for The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada. At The Center, he started the Vegas Mpowerment Project, which reaches thousands of young MSM with safer-sex messages, HIV education and outreach. He is an approachable and compassionate mentor for all the participants of the Mpowerment group. In addition to his job as HIV prevention director, Josh is also the community co-chair for the Southern Nevada HIV Prevention Planning Group. He is currently pursuing a degree in social work.

SHENNOD MOORE

Community Outreach Worker and In-Person Assister The Living Affected Corporation Little Rock, Arkansas Positive since 2004 Shennod Moore is dedicated to supporting and empowering those living with HIV/AIDS in his community. He was a special education teacher in Washington, DC, until he moved to Pittsburgh and became a case manager at Allegheny General Hospital’s Positive Health Clinic. He then served as the director of community outreach at the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force.

Shennod recently relocated to Arkansas and continues to educate people of all ages about safer sex. He is also an author of several books of poetry available on Amazon.

JEFFREY NEWMAN Founder PositivelyJeffrey.com New York, New York Positive since 2001

Jeffrey Newman created the Facebook group “HIV HIV and AIDS— AIDS Curb the Ignorance—Get The Facts Out—Proving It Gets Better” to educate people about the virus and to break the stereotypes and myths through facts, information and personal stories.

Jeffrey has been working with HIV/AIDS groups for nearly 20 years, starting with his work with AIDS Walk Miami.

He is an award-winning journalist

who has written for The Advocate, POZ, the Windy City Times and other publications. Jeffrey is part of RiseUpToHIV’s “No Shame About Being HIV Positive” campaign and other antistigma efforts. His goal with his Facebook group and the newly launched PositivelyJeffrey.com is to help people realize that they are not alone; he hopes to inspire people newly diagnosed with HIV and to let them know that it does get better.

NAIMAH O’NEAL

Medical Social Worker AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland Cleveland, Ohio Positive since 1992 Naimah O’Neal has been working in the field ld off HIV/AIDS for the past 23 years. She coordinated a prevention program for African-American men called Nia. She helps to improve the lives of Ohioans through education, awareness and advocacy as a board member of the Ohio AIDS Coalition. Naimah is licensed by the state of Ohio as a pre/post test counselor and has been doing HIV testing and prevention education for more than 10 years. She is a member of the local Ryan White CARE Act Planning Council and a member of the Campaign to End AIDS. She is working to start an Ohio Chapter of the Positive Women’s Network. Naimah attends workshops on different topics in an effort to stay current as an advocate for herself and her community—last year, she completed her master’s in social work.

JEFFREY PADILLA Health Educator Iris House Inc. New York, New York Positive since 2004

Jeffrey Padilla has been an advocate for HIV V prevention and LGBT issues for more than 10 years. He is a strong voice within the community and active in advocacy efforts to ensure that young gay African-American and Latino men have a safe haven at Iris House. Jeffrey is a health educator in the Listen Up program, which educates young men on HIV prevention, and he spearheaded i-Zone, the Iris House weekly support group for young gay men. Well-respected in the Harlem and Bronx communities, Jeffrey works from the heart and is deeply passionate about saving lives and preventing other young men from becoming HIV positive.

SHARON PAUL

HIV/AIDS Educator Penobscot Community Health Care/ Eastern Maine AIDS Network Bangor, Maine Positive since 2003 Sharon Paul is an HIV/AIDS educator who works closely with the Native American population in the central Maine area.

Through her work at Penobscot Community Health Care, she

provides testing services for HIV and hepatitis C and educates individuals on HIV prevention. Sharon travels to organizations, agencies, schools, universities, pride marches, homeless shelters and any other place that will let her talk about HIV/AIDS. She also overseas the needle exchange program for the Eastern Maine AIDS Network. For Sharon, it’s about establishing trust and showing people that they too can survive.

centered personal enrichment approach to promote positive behaviors and to help clients change behaviors that put them at risk. He has dedicated himself to the fight against HIV/AIDS and has traveled to many underserved areas of the South reaching out to leaders to address HIV prevalence and AIDS services.

Timothy helps individuals turn mere existence into fulfilled living.

MURRAY PENNER

Volunteer AIDS/HIV Services Group Charlottesville, Virginia Positive since 1989

Deputy Executive Director NASTAD Washington, DC Positive since 1986 Murray Penner is the deputy executive director off NASTAD (National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors) and oversees the Health Care Access, HIV Prevention, Viral Hepatitis, Health Equity programs and the ADAP Crisis Task Force, which negotiates ADAP drug prices with pharmaceutical companies. Murray is also board chair of HarborPath, the Clinton Foundation’s program that facilitates HIV prescription drug access to industry patient assistance programs. Murray works tirelessly day and night for people with HIV and hepatitis C and recently joined the AIDS Treatment Activists Coalition and is on its board. He also participated in a recent FDA panel on patient-centered HIV “cure” issues.

OSVALDO PERDOMO

Board Member & Volunteer Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) New York, New York Positive since 2004

Osvaldo Perdomo went to GMHC when he was diagnosed di d with AIDS in 2004. As he started to access services, he also attended the therapeutic art classes. As his newfound love for painting grew, Osvaldo was invited to submit his artwork for Visual AIDS’s annual fundraiser, Postcards From the Edge. He subsequently submitted his artwork to GMHC’s annual client art show, Art & AIDS. Five years ago, he started co-curating the annual art exhibitions with artist David Livingston; he connected with the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art to have them host the show in December around World AIDS Day. Osvaldo has also helped coordinate panel discussions at the museum about the impact of art on the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Osvaldo has served as team captain for Team Friends in Deed at AIDS Walk New York, and last year he joined the GMHC Board of Directors and its development committee.

TIMOTHY PITTS

Founder and Life Coach L.E.A.D Center Spartanburg, South Carolina Positive since 1998 In 2007 Timothy Pitts founded The L.E.A.D. (Life Life Enrichment Adaptation & Development) Center, which uses a client-

DORIS PLANT-HILL

Doris Plant-Hill has been a tireless volunteer for f AIDS/HIV Services Group (ASG) for more than three years. No volunteer task is too small and none too great for her to handle. Doris has also been a strong peer model for SISTA, a course devoted to empowering African-American women to take control of their lives and health. A former intravenous drug user, she is devoted to her long-term recovery and is a regular fixture in ASG’s substance abuse support group. Doris has appeared in several TV spots discussing her HIV status and path to health.

She is also on track to serve on the agency’s Community Advisory Board where she can influence the agency’s course as it moves forward.

STEPHEN A. PUIBELLO Founder Bipolarbear.us Cliffside Park, New Jersey Positive since 1996

Stephen A. Puibello is an activist living with HIV and d bi bipolar l disorder who is committed to reaching out to others with similar challenges and letting them know they are not alone. In 2004, he created the website, bipolarbear.us, which provided him with a platform to share his experiences as a gay man recovering from substance abuse and facing the challenges of living with HIV and bipolar disorder. The website provides self-help, peer-to-peer, and LGBT community mental health resources for those dually diagnosed with HIV and mental illness and who face the compound stigma of both. Stephen has been a member of Positive Pedalers since 2003 and raises money and awareness for various bipolar disorder- and HIV-related causes.

He was recently named a Voice Awards Fellow by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

JAIME REBELES, LVN

Licensed Vocational Staff Nurse Valley AIDS Council/Westbrook Clinic Harlingen, Texas Positive since 2011 Jaime Rebeles started working at the Valley AIDS IDS C Council il as a staff nurse in September 2011 with more than 10 years of experience ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics. He provides guidance to the staff on matters including policy and procedures,

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quality improvement and clinical research. In addition, he provides direct care to clients living with HIV/AIDS, offering a hug or listening ear when needed. Jaime speaks at the local nursing schools and is a mentor to all the students who volunteer with the agency. He is passionate about his work at Valley AIDS Council and shares his story in order to help others. He is working toward a specialization as an AIDS care nurse. e.

Alabama’s Positive Leadership Council, an advocacy group that spends time researching policies and practices that affect HIVpositive people and helps them become leaders in their community. Cynthia always wears a huge smile, gives the largest hugs and wants each person to fulfill his or her destiny. She is there to lift you up, convince you of your worth and help you believe you can live a long and happy life—with or without HIV.

RONALD REGINS

RUTH ROYSTER FORDHAM

Ronald Regins is an active alumni of ASCNYC C (AIDS Service S i Center NYC). He helps individuals navigate the system and helps locate those “lost to follow-up.” He is a peer educator who works all over the city, and his main focus is prison reintegration and re-socialization. Ronald sits on the community advisory boards for Village Care and Daytop Village. He is active in the Treatment for Life Program at Brookdale Hospital in Brooklyn.

Ronald also facilitates Think Tank: Prison Health for the Action Center at GMHC. He has been active in lobbying for sick pay wages, the 30 Percent Rent Cap Bill and an end to stop and frisk policies in NYC. Ronald also wrote a play about diagnosis, dysfunction and disclosure called Paper Plates Paper Roses.

Ruth Royster Fordham has a true commitmentt tto advocacy d on behalf of people who are living with and affected by HIV. She educates and empowers them through her community outreach and early intervention techniques. As an early intervention specialist at Access AIDS Care, Ruth leads by example and inspires her colleagues to give their all. She is a compassionate professional who is able to work under difficult, high-pressure situations and still attain excellent results. She touches the lives of many people living with HIV/AIDS.

Alumni ASCNYC The Bronx, New York Positive since 1987

JOSH ROBBINS Activist and Blogger Imstilljosh.com Nashville, Tennessee Positive since 2012

Josh Robbins deftly uses social media (you can fi find d hi him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Flickr and more) to bring a face to HIV and show the realities of living with the virus. Before his diagnosis, Josh was raising awareness about HIV in the LGBT community and fundraising for the AIDS service organization Nashville CARES. He was also a volunteer for HVTN 505, a clinical vaccine trial. After he learned he was HIV positive, Josh created his website, Imstilljosh.com, which aims to help those living with the virus become advocates for themselves and others and be a voice against stigma. His simple motto—“I’m Still Josh. You Still Be You!”—offers encouragement and inspiration to those recently diagnosed with HIV.

CYNTHIA RODGERS

Linkage and Retention Coordinator UAB Family Clinic Birmingham, Alabama Positive since 1998 Cynthia Rodgers has been a linkage and retention coordinator di t att the University at Birmingham for 13 years. She has a special gift for reaching out to children, teens and young adults and getting them into care. Cynthia has volunteered with AIDS Alabama ever since the time of her diagnosis. She currently serves on

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Community Educator Access AIDS Care Norfolk, Virginia Positive since 1988

JAMES ‘JR’ RUDE

Quality Management Specialist Southwest CARE Center Santa Fe, New Mexico Positive since 1989 James ‘JR’ Rude is a great asset to the Southwest CARE Center.

He is an active member of the Client Advisory Board and volunteers every year for the AID & Comfort Gala, the Kentucky Derby Day Event and other fundraisers. An active member of the center’s organizational health team, he is always seeking out new ways to make everyone’s work easier. JR is a team player with a great sense of humor and deep commitment to the agency’s mission of improving the health of people living in the culturally diverse communities of northern New Mexico.

DONALD ‘BUD’ SADLER IT and Facilities Manager Northland Cares Prescott, Arizona Positive since 1994

Donald ‘Bud’ Sadler personifies the mission on of Northland Cares, which is “to improve the quality of life for those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS through care and education in the communities we serve.” Bud spends twice as many hours volunteering as he does as a paid contractor. He uses every opportunity to reach out to those who are struggling with their diagnosis, or to teach a young person the facts of HIV/AIDS, or to provide his compassionate counseling to a scared and vulnerable person coming in for testing. He holds himself to the highest standards and keeps the needs of the clients first and foremost in his mind at all times.

RAQUEL SAPIEN

standing ovation at Lavender Law for his presentation about the continued need for the LGBT community’s support of HIV legal advocacy. He has done an incredible amount of work on HIV criminalization, including cases that have challenged existing state laws. Scott is a legal champion for people living with HIV.

Raquel Sapien has been at the forefront fighting ng for the rights of the transgender community and people living with HIV/AIDS. She is on the National Advisory Board of the Center of Excellence for Transgender Health and an active member of the Global Network of People Living with HIV/North America.

Raquel serves as the Midwest representative for the Leadership Committee of the National Latino AIDS Action Network and is part of the CDC’s HIV/AIDS awareness and anti-stigma campaign, “Let’s Stop HIV Together.” Raquel was awarded a certificate of recognition from the California State Senate for her work promoting, protecting and improving the health of the transgender community, and last year she spoke in the Global Village at the International AIDS Conference addressing the health disparities of transgender individuals in this country and their exclusion from society as a whole.

NICOLE SEGUIN

Leadership Committee Member National Latino AIDS Action Network Joplin, Missouri Positive since 1992

JOE SCARBOROUGH

Ambassador of Hope Dab the AIDS Bear Project Wilmington, Delaware Positive since 1992

Joe Scarborough has been working in the HIV/AIDS AIDS community for more than 20 years. As an ambassador of hope for the Dab the AIDS Bear Project, he shares the project’s message of hope, love and compassion for people living with the virus. Joe is a cochair of the Delaware HIV Planning Council and works parttime at the Delaware HIV Consortium as a community planning and policy development specialist. He played an integral role representing the HIV community in the introduction and passage of several pieces of legislation including ones on medical marijuana, needle exchange and routine opt-out HIV testing. Joe is an advocate for the homeless, especially those living with AIDS. He is a regular guest speaker at high schools, universities, community events and conferences. He also teaches classes on advocacy for people living with HIV in Delaware.

SCOTT SCHOETTES HIV Project Director Lambda Legal Chicago, Illinois Positive since 1999

Scott Schoettes is the HIV Project Director for Lambda ambda Legal Legal, the oldest and largest national legal organization committed to achieving recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and people with HIV. He co-chairs the HIV Legal Working Group at the Positive Justice Project and has worked on the REPEAL HIV Discrimination Act. Scott was also involved in the effort to take down the travel and immigration ban against people living with HIV. This year, he received a

Director National HIV/AIDS Disability Project Hamtramck, Michigan Positive since 2005 While in school for computer engineering, Nicole Seguin was diagnosed with HIV, and it inspired her to become more involved in the HIV community, particularly addressing issues affecting women, infants and children. She joined the Ryan White Part D Michigan Community Advisory Board and was soon elected chair. Her unwavering dedication to educate the community about research has given women a much-needed voice in the Detroit HIV community. Nicole was selected to be the regional representative for the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trial Network (IMPAACT). She was also selected to be a part of the AIDS Alliance Consumer Leadership Corps Training Program and appointed by Detroit Mayor Dave Bing to represent the community on the Southeastern Michigan HIV/AIDS Planning Council. Nicole is the board treasurer for the Detroit chapter of the Positive Women’s Network and is in school pursuing a degree in political science.

MICHAEL SIEVER Independent Agent Social Justice Activism San Francisco, California Positive since 1991

Throughout his many years of service in San F Francisco, i mostt recently as the director of Behavioral Health Services for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, Michael Siever has always been a champion on for harm reduction and gay men’s health.

Sixteen years ago, go, he founded the Stonewall Project, a family of counseling, treatment reatment and support services for gay and bisexual men who o want to address their alcohol and d drug use. He was also one of the founders of Magnet, thee gay men’s health center in n the heart of the Castro neighboreighborhood, which offers ffers an array of f ree sex ual health servicess for HIVnegative and HIV-positive men. Now in its 10th year, Magnet promotes the health and wellbeing of the gayy community and provides more than 16,000 tests for HIV and sexually xually transmitted infections each year.

BOB SKINNER

WAYNE STARKS

Bob Skinner moved to Oregon after his AIDS DS diagnosis and has since dedicated his time working on HIV/AIDS issues. He began as a volunteer for Valley AIDS Information Network Inc. and has been the president and CEO since 2007. Bob was the co-chair of Oregon’s State Planning Group for two years. He is an avid speaker, and last year, he reached nearly 1,500 students of all ages through his educational presentations. He is a master trainer with Stanford’s Positive Self-Management Program, also known as Living Well with HIV. When Bob isn’t speaking to students or facilitating a positive self-management workshop, you can find him thinking of ways to get the word out to high-risk groups. His dream is to see the end of this disease.

Wayne Starks became an activist in 2006 when the th governor off New York introduced a policy that would have forced thousands of low-income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS into homelessness. A former New York City bus driver, Wayne spent many years living on the streets and in HIV/AIDS Services Administration housing after he was diagnosed with HIV. Today, he uses that experience in his work with VOCAL-NY, a statewide grassroots membership organization. He is involved with their campaigns advocating for the “Robin Hood tax,” as well as expanding access to hepatitis C testing and care and ensuring legal protections for syringe access. Wayne has been active in Occupy Wall Street, National People’s Action, Right to the City and other movements for economic and racial justice.

President/CEO Valley AIDS Information Network Inc. Corvallis, Oregon Positive since 2000

D GREGORY SMITH

Licensed Mental Health Counselor Yellowstone AIDS Project/AIDS Outreach Bozeman, Montana Positive since 2007 An original member of the Montana Governor’s ’ AIDS Ad Advisory i Council, D Gregory Smith has been active in Montana HIV/ AIDS work since 1994. He is passionate about HIV education, prevention and treatment and works primarily as a licensed mental health counselor, conducting HIV support groups, counseling, speaking, writing and helping facilitate men’s health retreats statewide. But he is also a teacher, health educator, activist, poet, spiritual adventurer and future husband—as well as an opinionated and witty optimist. He loves writing (his work can be found on The Bilerico Project and LGBTQ Nation) as well as his partner, Ken, and their two dogs, Bandit and Phyllis.

LAWRENCE STALLWORTH II Youth Services Coordinator AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland Euclid, Ohio Positive since 2009

Lawrence Stallworth II discovered he was HIV V positive i i at the h age of 17. After confronting discrimination and stigma, he got involved in the community. He became a member of the Ohio Advocates Youth Leadership Council at the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland and gained broad expertise on sexual health and HIV/AIDS rights issues, policies, advocacy and new media.

Lawrence has appeared on TV and at universities to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and sexual health issues. He has educated policy makers and advisory councils—including the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS—about the need to establish budgetary allocations specific to young people’s sexual health and regarding access to antiretroviral therapy.

Lawrence is currently the youngest member of the Cleveland Planning Council for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Services.

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Board Member VOCAL-NY New York, New York Positive since 1986

CEDRIC STURDEVANT Project Coordinator My Brother’s Keeper Jackson, Mississippi Positive since 2005

In 2006, Cedric Sturdevant began volunteering with Magnolia Medical Clinic (MMC), and it launched his passion for AIDS advocacy. After completing HIV 101 courses at MMC, he enrolled in the Black Treatment Advocates Network (BTAN), a program created by the Black AIDS Institute that provides individuals with the training and tools to respond to the AIDS epidemic in their communities. Cedric is now a co-chair of BTAN. As a project coordinator for My Brother’s Keeper, Cedric underscores the importance of HIV prevention, education and awareness. He is also the project coordinator for Project TRUST (Through Response Uplifting & Supportive Talk), and he facilitates the only African-American MSM HIV-positive support group in the state. Last year, Cedric appeared in Deep South—a documentary about HIV in America’s Southern states.

TERESA SULLIVAN

Project TEACH Instructor and Peer Support Specialist Philadelphia FIGHT Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Positive since 1997 Teresa Sullivan is an instructor and peer support specialist for Project TEACH (Treatment Education Activists Combating HIV), an innovative health education program that trains people living with HIV to be peer educators and advocates in the underserved communities hardest hit by the epidemic. She also advocates for HIV-positive individuals who are being detained in the Philadelphia Prison System. Teresa sits on the board of the Positive Women’s Network and is co-coordinator of its Philadelphia chapter. As a TEAM (Treatment Education, Adherence

and Mobilization) navigator for the National Minority AIDS Council, Teresa trains other HIV-positive people how to begin a dialogue about treatment as prevention in their own communities. She is a graduate fellow of the Black AIDS Institute and is currently seeking a degree in health care service management.

COLEMAN TERRELL

Program Administrator Philadelphia Department of Public Health Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Positive since 1987 Coleman Terrell has worked for decades battling attling the HIV epidemic. He was one of the influential voices of ACT UP Philadelphia thanks to his savvy ability to mobilize people, plan effective demonstrations, utilize the media to maximum effect, and work with the government and pharmaceutical companies.

He fought in the trenches and was once beaten in the head by the police and taken away in handcuffs at a demonstration.

Coleman worked for one of the first AIDS service organizations and later transitioned to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health in the AIDS Activities Coordinating Office. His current position is as program administrator. Coleman’s intellect, vision, ability to spot trends and his passion for the work and compassion for others have helped shape the effectiveness of the city government and have enhanced the ability of many service providers in the jurisdiction.

JUSTIN B. TERRY-SMITH Author and Blogger Justin’s HIV Journal Laurel, Maryland Positive since 2006

Justin B. Terry-Smith is an HIV and gay civil rights ghts activist who has worked and volunteered in several organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, Black AIDS Institute, Equality Maryland, Whitman-Walker Health and the National Black Justice Coalition. He created “Justin’s HIV Journal,” a personal blog filled with insight, info and intelligence, to advocate for HIV/AIDS education, prevention and awareness. He has written for the Black AIDS Institute, TheBody.com, A&U Magazine, GBMNews.com and Baltimore Gay Life; plus, he is a correspondent for GLO TV and writes an HIV advice column called Just*in Time. He’s also the author of a children’s book, I Have A Secret, which is a story about a young boy living with the virus.

He is developing an HIV campaign called “Write a Letter to HIV” and is working toward a master’s degree in public health.

KERRY THOMAS

Board Member The Sero Project Boise, Idaho Positive since 1983

Kerry Thomas is an inmate in the Idaho Correctional Center.

He has been sentenced to over 30 years for nondisclosure of

HIV despite the fact that (1) the woman who leveled these accusations was not infected, (2) a condom was used, and (3) he was told by a medical professional that he was considered non-transmittable. During his time in prison, Kerry has worked with various outreach organizations on issues surrounding HIV criminalization and has given interviews on the topic. Kerry works with the Sero Project to help raise awareness of HIV criminalization laws and to use his story to sway the conversation toward a more enlightened justice system.

JANE VALENCIA

Volunteer Indigenous Peoples Task Force Bemidji, Minnesota Positive since 1994 Jane Valencia is a member of the Leech Lake Band d off Ojibwe Ojib in i Northern Minnesota. She is currently a volunteer with Indigenous Peoples Task Force (IPTF) and has spent the last two years working with their Community Promise Program. She assists with monthly community testing on the Red Lake Tribal Nation and the Leech Lake Tribal Nation. Jane also volunteers to give HIV/AIDS presentations to the Tribal Nation Substance Abuse Treatment Programs as well to other programs within the IPTF. Jane is now a “Traditional Ladies” style dancer at Native American powwows. She is honored to be able to be an example for others in order to help those who are at high risk for HIV or are living with the virus. Her ultimate goal is to work with youth in HIV prevention and awareness.

NESTOR VANEGAS-CHARRY Financial Specialist Southwest CARE Center Santa Fe, New Mexico Positive since 2010

Nestor Vanegas-Charry is one of the hardest working ki individi di id uals at the Southwest CARE Center. In addition to his daily duties as a financial specialist, p , he volunteers countless times a year to assist the outreach h team with HIV and hepatitis C testing, to help plan and implement ment fundraising events or conduct nduct outreach to LGBT youth. h. Nestor also takes on other wo workorkrelated projects and d offers his expertise to the entire Southwest CARE Center staff.

Nestor is a “go to” person in the organization.

JASON VILLALOBOS Advocate Greater Than AIDS Campaign Lompoc, California Positive since 2005

Jason Villalobos is a national spokesperson for the “Greater Than AIDS” campaign and works to educate the public on the stigma, fear and misinformation that people living with HIV deal with every day. He has participated in the AIDS/LifeCycle—a 545-mile bike ride each June from San Francisco to Los Angeles—four times and has helped raise more than $25,000 for HIV/AIDS charities. A prolific public speaker, Jason has addressed numerous college and high school students in workshops designed to eliminate stigma and to encourage young people to engage in smarter safer sex. He recently began working with the local Planned Parenthood Positive Peers program, and talks to junior high and high school students about health education, bullying, gay rights and the prevention of HIV and other STIs.

REED VREELAND

Communications Coordinator The Sero Project New York, New York Positive since 1986

community throughout the state, especially in the transgender community. She is always willing to share her story, her struggles and her experiences living with HIV/AIDS to help others.

JEFF WEBB

Peer Leader Boston Living Center Boston, Massachusetts Positive since 2004 Jeff Webb is a source of care, kindness and steadfast adfast support for members of his community. As a peer leader at the Boston Living Center, he shines at assisting people through challenges.

Jeff is also a facilitator of the LIFE (Learning Immune Function Enhancement) program—a scientifically based health course designed to engage the mind, body and spirit. The course emphasizes self-care, social support, risk-reduction and adherence to health routines. Jeff is aware that keeping people healthy and engaged in care requires an emphasis on self-worth.

ROBIN WEBB

Executive Director A Brave New Day Cleveland, Mississippi Positive since 1988

Reed Vreeland is the communications coordinator ator for the Sero Project, a network of HIV-positive people and their allies fighting for freedom from stigma and injustice. Formerly an assistant editor at POZ, Reed is a member of ACT UP New York and works with DAWG, the Digital Activism Working Group. He is also a member of the Global Network of People Living with HIV/North America’s Young Leaders’ Caucus and on the steering committee of the United States People Living with HIV Stigma Index. Whether he’s planning a demonstration at the New York Public Library or pitching stories to the media about HIV criminalization efforts, Reed is a strong voice and advocate for people living with HIV.

Robin Webb founded the group A Brave New Day to organize and empower his Southern HIV-positive peers to proactively advocate against harsh punitive practices targeted at people living with HIV. Robin has created and produced numerous events for thousands of HIV-positive people and their allies in Mississippi and neighboring states, including the Office of National AIDS Policy’s Town Hall Advocacy Workshop and the Mississippi State HIV/AIDS Conference and Legislative Day. He was the recipient of the 2012 Martin Delaney Power of One Award and has spoken and presented at conferences across the country. Robin serves on the Southern AIDS Strategy Initiative and Southern AIDS Coalition. He also serves the Mississippi Episcopal AIDS Committee.

DANIELLE WASKO

MIKE WEIGHT

Danielle Wasko has been a volunteer at the AIDS Network in Southern Wisconsin for four years. Known for her good spirit, she is often out in the community doing outreach education on the importance of knowing your status and practicing safe sex.

Danielle has become a role model and an advocate in the LGBT

Mike Weight started volunteering as a receptionist at the Utah AIDS Foundation (UAF) in 2012. Soon he began volunteering in UAF’s food bank, assisting others in making healthy food choices and bringing a smile to their faces. Mike eventually took full ownership of the UAF’s vegetable garden, installing

Volunteer AIDS Network Madison, Wisconsin Positive since 2006

Volunteer Utah AIDS Foundation Salt Lake City, Utah Positive since 2004

The POZ new trellises and a new watering system and getting involved in the planning and planting of all the new plants. He has participated in numerous fundraising events and provides HIV education to the youth involved with Salt Lake Early Intervention program as they perform community service in the food bank. His contribution to his community has changed the lives of many, and the fruits (and vegetables!) of his hard work will grow for years to come.

ROBERT WESTWOOD

Volunteer House of Ruth Inc. Louisville, Kentucky Positive since 1998

ERWIN WILLHITE

HIV Prevention Specialist CARES of Southwest Michigan Kalamazoo, Michigan Positive since 2012 Passionate about reaching young black gay men, n Erwin Willhite has worked as an HIV prevention specialist at CARES for over a year. He runs camps for HIV-positive men and offers HIV testing in non-traditional venues to reach those most at risk.

Nicknamed ‘Kid Friendly,’ Erwin also works with the Mr Friendly program—an international, grassroots movement that aims to reduce HIV-related stigma, encourage HIV testing and improve the quality of life for those living with HIV.

KEKOA YAP

Robert Westwood was a staunch advocate for those h li living i with ih or affected by HIV even before his diagnosis in 1998. He is a retired student affairs administrator at San Francisco State University (SFSU) and was a founding member and chair of the AIDS Coordinating Committee at SFSU. He also co-chaired the committee that wrote the AIDS policy for the California State University system. Robert founded the first scholarship fund for students with HIV/AIDS at SFSU—upon his retirement, it was named the Westwood HIV Scholarship fund. In addition, he founded the Cindy Kolb AIDS Donation Fund, which has awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships to students, faculty and staff with HIV or other disabilities. Since his retirement, Robert has maintained residences in Rancho Mirage, California, and Louisville, Kentucky. He has donated both his time and money to the Desert AIDS Project of Palm Springs and House of Ruth in Louisville. He is currently launching a capital improvement effort to renovate House of Ruth’s transitional/emergency shelter for homeless adults who are HIV positive.

Kekoa Yap recently returned to the Maui AIDS IDS Foundation F d ti (MAF) to work in the prevention and education department.

He worked at the organization a decade ago and was the first coordinator for the CDC’s Prevention with Positives Initiative.

Kekoa was also a member of the Community Planning Group for the Hawaii Department of Health. In between his stints at MAF, Kekoa was a community health educator at the Desert AIDS Project in Palm Springs, California, conducting HIV 101 presentations to high schools and substance abuse and mental health centers in the surrounding Coachella Valley. Kekoa returns to his native Hawaii with a wealth of experience and knowledge and a sincere compassion for the community.

CASSANDRA WHITTY

MARK ZATYRKA

Cassandra Whitty is a daughter, sister, mother, er grandmother grandmother, aunt and a person living with HIV. She has served on the board for HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two for six years and served as the board chair for two terms. She also served on the Mayor’s Advisory Council for HIV/AIDS. Cassandra is the founder and CEO of Hope and Mercy Resource Center in Louisiana where they minister and educate people living with and affected by HIV and hypertension through the program “Teaching One to Reach One.” She advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves about living with HIV/AIDS by telling her story, and she urges others to know their status and get tested.

Mark Zatyrka contracted HIV as a child through gh tainted medimedi cation to treat hemophilia. He kept this a secret for most of his childhood, but after traveling the country with Camp Heartland, he decided to share his story. Mark gradually disclosed to family and friends, and in 2007, he connected with the AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts (AFWM). He joined the board and became chair of the local AIDS Walk. Mark co-founded the AIDS kNOw More Project—a group for area students to learn about HIV and in turn educate the community. He recently became a father and is excited to raise his HIV-negative twin girls to be as committed as he is to making the world a better place.

CEO Hope and Mercy Resource Center Baton Rouge, Louisiana Positive since 2000

Partner Services Coordinator Maui AIDS Foundation Maui, Hawaii Positive since 1994

Trustee AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts Springfield, Massachusetts Positive since 1982