Updates on our HIV/STI Initiatives Work

Targeted Testing

The IWES HIV/STI Initiatives team is working with our community partners to assess the feasibility of providing in-person HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis screenings at community sites and by appointment. Due to complications incurred during Hurricane Ida, we’re also assessing the viability of our HIV self-testing distribution program. Please check our website frequently for updates and the PAUSE Instagram to meet us out in the community!

If you are interested in volunteering to conduct outreach and prevention activities or to support testing activities, please email Drew Schwenk or call (504) 220-5287.

Out of the Shadows Support Group

Out of the Shadows is a support group for Black cisgeneder and transgender women living with HIV. The support group has been a virtual space where women connect and form networks for 1.5 years. IWES was very recently awarded funding by ViiV Pharmaceuticals to offer the support group for an additional three years. Registration for Out of the Shadows will open November 1 and close December 3. If you are interested in more information, email Meagan Dunham or Brittney Durham, or call (504) 220-1984.

Healthy Relationships and IPV Awareness Workshop

The MORE Project and partners at the New Orleans Family Justice Center recently released a training that can be accessed here. This mentor training is for men who work with youth to inform them about healthy teen dating and to help them build skills to support the young men they serve. Upon completion of the post-test, men are able to request a $25 e-gift card. If you have any questions, please email Brittney Durham for more information.

Assessing the Impacts of COVID-19 on Accessing Health Services Survey

Have you been looking for health care services and noticed that your provider has different hours of operation that don’t fit your schedule? Maybe you’ve had to take extra steps to see your healthcare provider? We want to hear about your experiences with accessing services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents will receive a $25 e-gift card upon completion of the survey. Please email Drew Schwenk or call (504) 220-5287 to learn more.