AIDS Foundation of Chicago's year-old Faith in Prevention program is trying to raise $500,000 over the next year not only to sustain but also expand its outreach into African-American communities. Twelve churches and faith-based groups fighting HIV/AIDS in Chicago's black neighborhoods initially received $10,000 each from AFC under a one-year, $120,000 federal grant, but that funding soon expires.

AFC Executive Director Mark Ishaug said his organization will provide an additional $5,000 to each of the twelve groups and raise money from public and private sources to keep the program going. The Rev. Doris Green, AFC's community affairs director and coordinator of Faith in Prevention, said she believes the funds will be raised. She plans on enlisting eight more groups, many from the suburbs, to bring the program's total to 20.

According to Green, the groups now involved "are demystifying the epidemic and providing messages of prevention and hope." "They're talking not only about abstinence but about comprehensive AIDS prevention and testing," said Green, adding that some churches are now conducting HIV testing.

Another AFC initiative is the South Side Women's Collaborative, which has received $60,000 to stem the increase of HIV/AIDS among women. SSWC partners visit beauty salons and other shops that cater to women, referring patrons who might benefit from HIV testing and care.

In the fiscal year that ended June 30, AFC awarded more than $1.4 million in grants -- the highest amount in the organization's 20-year history.

Back to other news for July 8, 2005

Search the Newsroom archive