International Awareness & Involvement (IAI) Program Award

Red Ribbon Wellness Day: Moving Beyond Stigma was a locally executed program advancing global HIV/AIDS equity through stigma reduction, education, and access to care. We delivered a whole-health experience—confidential HIV testing and prevention support, mental health resources, vaccinations and basic health checks, harm-reduction education, and workshops—powered by 15+ community partners. Innovation mattered: gym-floor activations helped us engage “walk-by” participants, and no-photo privacy zones (Testing/Clinical and Men’s Corner) protected dignity and trust. People left with resources, referrals, and next steps.

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Participants received practical education, accessed confidential services, and left with clear next steps through referrals and partner pathways. By pairing HIV prevention with whole-health supports (mental health resources, harm-reduction education, vaccines, and wellness checks), we reduced stigma and normalized care-seeking. Engagement showed strong resonance—especially workshops and gym-floor activations that sparked real conversations. Our assessment also identified concrete upgrades (earlier venue marketing coordination and unified counting) to increase future reach with the same high-trust model.

 

Overall, the program elevated visibility of HIV prevention resources and strengthened the local network supporting community health.