Dear WORLD Supporters and Interested Stakeholders:
Women Organized to Respond to Life-threatening Diseases (WORLD) is proud to begin a new chapter of providing life-saving services and support for women living with and at risk for HIV. Our new affiliation and partnership with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the U.S., are remarkable in many ways.
First, it provides a solid base of support that allows WORLD to expand its capacity in order to fulfill its mission. Secondly, it highlights the need for like-minded organizations serving persons living with and at risk for HIV/AIDS to combine their collective resources in order to be more effective and have a greater impact in HIV prevention and awareness. And thirdly, it elevates the urgency for stronger public advocacy in addressing the need for greater resources and funding for women-centered services and programs in support of HIV positive women.
We know that we face many challenges ahead, including:
- Stigmatization that keeps some women from seeking care and staying in care.
- Diminishing federal support for HIV services that requires a greater commitment from all of us as we work to ensure that current HIV services remain intact.
- Continued need for more culturally competent and relevant care for women living with and at risk for HIV.
That is why WORLD strategically aligned with AHF to expand our services and strengthen our network of advocacy so that together, we are better able to address the many issues women living with and at risk for HIV face. In fact, our relationship with AHF is similar to other affiliate-structured women’s organizations such as Planned Parenthood Federation of America serving women around the world.
WORLD will continue to operate as an independent 501(c) (3) nonprofit. Our mission remains the same-to improve the lives and health of women, girls, families, and communities affected by HIV through peer-based education, wellness services, advocacy, and leadership development through women-centered culture. Keep a lookout for our monthly blogs, as we update you on what’s new with WORLD. We look forward to this new opportunity, and we thank you for your continued collaboration and support.
In Partnership and in Service,
Cynthia Carey-Grant
Executive Director