Basic HIV/AIDS Program

AIDS is a leading cause of death among Americans aged 25 to 44. By learning the facts about HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) and acting on them, we can protect ourselves and others.

The Basic HIV/AIDS Program uses a variety of learning techniques in sessions specially designed for your community to help people--

• Become aware of HIV transmission and prevention.
• Gain accurate knowledge of HIV and AIDS facts.
• Personalize the facts so that they become more meaningful to them.
• Develop decision-making skills to avoid the risks of HIV infection.
• Explore advantages in deciding to postpone sex or not to use drugs or alcohol.
• Develop skills to reduce their risk of HIV infection when having sex or when injecting drugs.

The Fundamentals Program uses facts-based discussion to reinforce information about HIV transmission and prevention, dispel myths about HIV and AIDS, and help participants learn from their own experiences and those of others. Activities encourage people to apply the facts to their own behaviors.

Participants in Prevention Skills apply the facts about HIV to risk situations in which they might find themselves. For example, participants practice how to refuse invitations to have sex or use drugs. Role play can also equip them with ways to talk about using condoms before the situation arises.

Also Available:

HIV/AIDS Facts Book - a user-friendly reference that provides basic and detailed answers to questions about HIV and AIDS.

Reasons to Care: The Many Faces of HIV video uses a documentary style to show people living with HIV infection.

American Red Cross HIV/AIDS Education Folder features artwork representing the four American Red Cross HIV/AIDS programs: Basic, African American, Hispanic and Workplace.

Help yourself and your community by becoming an Instructor.

Testing for HIV Infection Brochure – commonly asked questions and facts that may be helpful to someone considering an HIV test.

Children, Parents and HIV – tips for parents to discuss HIV/AIDS issues their children, preteens and teens about ways to reduce their risk of becoming infected with HIV.

Women, Sex and HIV – Facts for woman to find out the facts about HIV and AIDS, steps to protect yourself, your family, and others from HIV infection.

Giving and Receiving Blood Fact Sheet – questions and answers about donating blood, blood transfusions, and storing blood.