According to COESIDA reports, there has been an increase in HIV/AIDS cases along the Oaxacan coast in youth between 15 and 26 years of age, in recent years. This increase in the number of cases coincides with the increase in number of pregnant teenagers, illegal drug-use and violence, among youth. These are key indicators of a greater risk of HIV infections in the coastal region. Since the risk of contracting HIV is higher in younger populations, the intention of this initiative is to establish a program run by and focused on youth.
The Jovenes Unidos (Youth United) HIV/AIDS awareness outreach and education program was started in the summer of 2006, by three CFHI students: Cristina Mota, Erik Berg, and Lynn VanderWielen, who began by training 15 students at a local high school. Their training encompassed sexual education, STDs, HIV/AIDS and was facilitated by two psychologists from the COESIDA organization, with the help of Dra. Santaella. After the students were trained, they prepared a presentation about HIV/AIDS education and started going to regional high schools to educate the local youth. In order for this program to be sustainable, Jovenes Unidos needed a local coordinator to manage all the administrative and outreach work, with particular reference to building strong relationships with local educators.
CFHI funding will pay for A/V equipment, workshop/training materials, and transportation for High School youth to conduct trainings, and a stipend for the local coordinator; all of which are necessary for this project to be sustainable for the upcoming year. |
