HIV/AIDS Programs for Youth

AIDS is one of the leading causes of death for Americans between the ages of 25 and 44, according to the CDC. It is widely believed that most people in their twenties who have AIDS actually became infected with HIV in their teenage years.
All of the American Red Cross HIV/AIDS programs provide opportunities for reaching youth. We have developed videos, brochures, workbooks, comic books, and other materials that encourage young people and the adults in their lives to openly discuss HIV prevention. The American Red Cross approach involves providing age-appropriate HIV/AIDS education from an early age through adolescence and young adulthood.

Act SMART
Help young people make smart decisions and develop healthy behaviors to prevent HIV and AIDS and gain a sense of compassion for persons living with HIV or AIDS. The curriculum is divided into three units: for ages 6 to 9, 10 to 13, and 14 to 17.

The Party
This video package provides HIV-prevention education materials for people ages 13 to 15. The Party can help youth enhance their decision-making skills related to HIV prevention. Issues raised include peer pressure, alcohol and drug use, sexual activity, and self-respect.