Youth Awareness Initiative

BINGHAMTON, NY - The theme chosen for World AIDS Day 2002 is "Live and Let Live". The theme is aimed at helping to prevent, reduce or eliminate stigma and discrimination of those individuals infected with HIV or AIDS. The Community Awareness Committee of the HIV Care Network, a regional coalition of health and human service providers, community leaders, volunteers, and consumers in the Broome, Chenango and Tioga County area, is coordinating local events for World AIDS Day. This year's events will build upon the successful involvement of over 100 area youth in 2001World AIDS Day events in Binghamton. With community support, the Network hopes to increase the level of participation. The Youth Awareness Initiative will be held to support youth involvement in AIDS education projects throughout the region.

With adult guidance and encouragement, young people can be empowered to advocate for prevention, education and awareness, and become involved in peer education with the goal of decreasing HIV and AIDS. Youth are invited to develop an art project to be carried during a silent march in downtown Binghamton on Sunday, December 1st. The projects will be on display at the American Civic Association during the World AIDS Day Program, which will be held at 4:30 PM at the American Civic Association, 131 Front St, Binghamton, NY. Youth will be recognized for their involvement during the reception that follows the program at the American Civic Association.

This year's theme, "Live and Let Live", should be incorporated into creating art projects for World AIDS Day. HIV prevention, AIDS education, increased awareness, reducing stigma and discrimination, hope for a cure, or compassion and sensitivity toward individuals and families impacted by the disease are some of the many possible themes youth may choose for their project. The initiative is open to any interested youth, youth group, or organization serving youth in Broome, Chenango or Tioga County. Adolescents and college students are especially encouraged to participate.

To enter the Youth Awareness Initiative or to inquire about planned World AIDS Day events, contact Beth at the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2858.

CONTACT:
Sandy Kosty, Network Coordinator,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.3066
email: skosty

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