10 Black HIV/AIDS Advocates Who Are Making a Difference

This statement is fitting, especially since the crux of Angela's work -- be it at her organization in San Francisco or traveling across the country -- is grounded in the notion of self-love and self-care, especially in terms of women.

Iris House provides a range of integrated low-cost or free services to local women that include substance abuse counseling, support groups for women living with HIV/AIDS, parenting skills and LGBT-related services. Angela started off as the center's director of HIV Prevention & Treatment Services, and in 2007 was promoted to executive director. Under her direction, Iris Center has had a huge impact, serving hundreds of people each year. In 2011, Iris Center implemented Project KIDS (Keeping Independent Decisions Supreme), which helps African-American women 13 to 18 years of age make smart choices surrounding sex, HIV and reproductive health. This year the center is looking to add HIVspecific services in mental health for their clients.