North Carolina AIDS Action Network

ADAP Watch

2012-02-10T13:38:00.000-08:00

As of February 9, 2012 there are:

6,620 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,102 are enrolled in ADAP
- 518 are enrolled in SPAP
137 individuals on the waiting list

As of February 2, 2012 there were:

6,607 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,087 are enrolled in ADAP
- 520 are enrolled in SPAP
138 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on February 3, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 4,575 people. That report shows NC as having 137 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on February 1, 2012. NC accounts for approximately 3% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

NCAAN Seeks Campus Outreach Interns

2012-02-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) is looking for outstanding, outgoing, and observant Campus Outreach Interns at the following universities:

East Carolina University
Fayetteville State University
NC A&T University
NC Central University
UNC-Chapel Hill
UNC-Greensboro

We are looking for applicants with excellent interpersonal and verbal skills. The Intern will be responsible for recruiting volunteers, educating students about issues affecting people living with HIV/AIDS, and advancing NCAAN’s mission on campus. The intern will also support NCAAN's work with coalition partners and may participate in community events near their campus. The intern will report to the Community Organizer.

NCAAN welcomes internship applications from students who can make a minimum commitment of ten hours through the end of the semester or longer. Applicants should be committed to promoting responsible HIV-related policies and to fighting HIV-related stigma and underlying social inequalities including poverty, homophobia, racism, and sexism. We believe in designing internships to allow interns to advance their personal goals while helping NCAAN to meet our goals.

To apply, please send a cover letter discussing your relevant skills and experience, resume, and two references to andrew@ncann.org. Application deadline is Friday, March 2, 2012. Review will begin immediately.

ADAP Watch

2012-02-03T13:50:00.001-08:00

As of February 2, 2012 there are:

6,607 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

6,087 are enrolled in ADAP
520 are enrolled in SPAP

138 individuals on the waiting list

As of January 26, 2012 there were:

6,590 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

6,067 are enrolled in ADAP
523 are enrolled in SPAP

136 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 4,575 people. That report shows NC as having 137 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on February 1, 2012. NC accounts for approximately 3% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

Elton John AIDS Foundation Joins the Fight Against HIV/AIDS in North Carolina

2012-01-30T07:20:00.001-08:00

Exciting News:

The Elton John AIDS Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to the North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) to support its efforts to advance responsible HIV prevention and treatment policies and reduce HIV-related stigma.

We could not be more grateful for this support, which allows us to hire a Community Organizer and to greatly expand our education and advocacy efforts in 2012.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation is one of the world’s leading nonprofits working to reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS through innovative HIV prevention programs, efforts to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, and direct treatment and care services for people living with HIV/AIDS.

ADAP Watch

2012-01-27T11:13:00.001-08:00

As of January 26, 2012 there are:

6,590 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,067 are enrolled in ADAP
- 523 are enrolled in SPAP
136 individuals on the waiting list

As of January 19, 2012 there were:

6,572 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,049 are enrolled in ADAP
- 523 are enrolled in SPAP
132 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on January 20, 2012, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 4,611 people. That report shows NC as having 130 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on January 18, 2012. NC accounts for approximately 2.82% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

ADAP Watch

2012-01-20T13:41:00.001-08:00

As of January 19, 2012 there are:

6,572 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,049 are enrolled in ADAP
- 523 are enrolled in SPAP
132 individuals on the waiting list

As of January 12, 2012 there were:

6,561 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,038 are enrolled in ADAP
- 523 are enrolled in SPAP
127 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 4,611 people. That report shows NC as having 130 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on January 18, 2012. NC accounts for approximately 2.82% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

ADAP Watch

2011-12-31T06:34:00.000-08:00

As 2011 comes to a close, we are especially grateful to the public officials responsible for maintaining the state ADAP budget and securing additional federal funds to clear 300 people from the ADAP waitlist earlier this year:

As of December 29, 2011 there are:

6,546 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,025 are enrolled in ADAP
- 521 are enrolled in SPAP
122 individuals on the waiting list

As of December 22, 2011 there were:

6,537 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,016 are enrolled in ADAP
- 521 are enrolled in SPAP
118 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on December 21, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 4,387 people. That report shows NC as having 118 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on December 20, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 2.69% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

ADAP Watch

2011-12-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

As of December 22, 2011 there are:

6,537 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 6,016 are enrolled in ADAP
- 521 are enrolled in SPAP
118 individuals on the waiting list

As of December 15, 2011 there were:

6,502 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,981 are enrolled in ADAP
- 521 are enrolled in SPAP
113 individuals on the waiting list

NCAAN Invites Nominations for Board Membership

2011-12-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

NCAAN is seeking three new members for its Board of Directors.

The Board is charged with advising, governing, overseeing policy and direction, and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of NCAAN so as to support the organization’s mission and needs.

NCAAN strives to elect Board members who are living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and who contribute to Board diversity along lines of gender, geography, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

We are currently seeking Board members with skills and experience in finance, fundraising and/or marketing. If interested, please send a short paragraph describing relevant experience and/or a resume to the Nominating Committee via Laura Kirby, LKirby@wncap.org.

Thanks!

ADAP Watch

2011-12-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

As of December 1, 2011 there are:

6,463 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,943 are enrolled in ADAP
- 520 are enrolled in SPAP
109 individuals on the waiting list

As of November 22, 2011 there were:

6,440 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,920 are enrolled in ADAP
- 520 are enrolled in SPAP
101 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on November 18, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,595 people. That report shows NC as having 95 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on November 16, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 1.44% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

ADAP Watch

2011-11-28T06:59:00.000-08:00

As of November 22, 2011 there are:

6,440 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,920 are enrolled in ADAP
520 are enrolled in SPAP

101 individuals on the waiting list.

As of November 17, 2011 there were:

6,419 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,899 are enrolled in ADAP
520 are enrolled in SPAP

97 individuals on the waiting list.

ADAP Watch, Special Edition

2011-11-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

As of November 14, 2011, there were:

6403 clients enrolled (5885 on ADAP and 518 on SPAP)

88 clients on the waiting list.

(We will resume our regular updates with the next report from the state.)

ADAP Watch

2011-11-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

As of November 3, 2011 there are:

6,373 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,862 are enrolled in ADAP
- 511 are enrolled in SPAP
81 individuals on the waiting list

As of October 28, 2011 there were:

6,328 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,816 are enrolled in ADAP
- 512 are enrolled in SPAP
71 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,489 people. That report shows NC as having 78 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on November 2, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 1.2% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found at http://www.nastad.org/default.aspx.

An NCAAN Intern in Washington

2011-10-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

On September 30, on behalf of NCAAN, I joined nearly 75 community leaders from across the state of North Carolina to visit the White House and participate in a dialogue about government policies and how we can interact better with the White House.

Our delegation joined a delegation from Georgia, and the joined group met with Jon Carson Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. The day’s agenda included breakout sessions on health care, education, veterans affairs, etc. (and even included a tour of the East Wing of the White House).

I was moved by the commitment so many of my colleagues demonstrated to serving the citizens of North Carolina who are most in need, and are so often overlooked. During a break-out session on health care, one of the many who spoke resoundingly for the need of affordable health care solutions was a member of the North Carolina General Assembly, Senator Eric Mansfield. I was proud of his contribution to this important and ongoing dialogue, and of his dedication to finding feasible solutions for everyone.

The trip with so many diverse and dynamic community leaders was inspirational. I look forward to continuing to apply that same enthusiasm as I continue to work with NCAAN and to advocate for the rights of PLWHA in North Carolina.

ADAP Watch

2011-10-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

As of October 13, 2011 there are:

6,265 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,756 are enrolled in ADAP
509 are enrolled in SPAP

58 individuals on the waiting list

As of October 6, 2011 there were:

6,235 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,729 are enrolled in ADAP
506 are enrolled in SPAP

59 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,299 people. That report shows NC as having 58 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on October 12, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 0.79% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found here.

ADAP Emergency Relief Serves 300 People Living with HIV/AIDS in NC

2011-10-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Late last month, we announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services had released $3M in AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) emergency relief funding for North Carolina -- part of a total package of nearly $44M in federal funding for HIV/AIDS care and medications in our state.

We wanted to make sure to follow up with this news from the NC Department of Health & Human Services:

The NC ADAP received three million dollars in ADAP Shortfall Relief funds from HRSA. As a result of this funding, we moved 300 clients from the waiting list into active enrollment [on October 6th]. The 59 individuals who remain on the waiting list were added to the waiting list after July 1, 2011. Clients who remain on the waiting list are eligible to receive medications from Welvista and other PAPs.

Please help us to spread the word -- and let us know how you feel about these developments!

Ignorance Isn't Bliss

2011-09-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

Sen. James Forrester, the lead sponsor of the anti-LGBT amendment that will go before North Carolina voters this fall, can't seem to let go of his wrong-headed notions about gay people and HIV.

So it's good to see this interview of Forrester by radio show host Michael Signorile circulating widely today. At least some people are hearing that gay people don't actually die an average of 20 years sooner than heterosexuals because of AIDS, as Sen. Forrester has repeatedly claimed.

And yet, there's a larger issue at the root of all this that's not getting quite as much attention as it deserves: the interconnections between HIV-related stigma, discrimination and homophobia.

You can bet this won't be the last time we hear supporters of the anti-LGBT amendment cite AIDS as part of the problem they're trying to 'solve' through their hurtful campaign.

And you can bet this political rhetoric will bleed over into social spaces like churches and sports leagues, making it more difficult for people living with HIV/AIDS to find supportive environments.

We're developing programs to help push back the wave of HIV-related stigma we're expecting between now and May 2012, when the anti-LGBT amendment will go before voters.

And we'll be working in coalition with Equality North Carolina to ensure a victory that day--not just because the language of the amendment jeopardizes the access that hundreds of people living with HIV/AIDS have to health insurance through domestic partner benefits, but also because these attacks on LGBT people are attacks on the HIV/AIDS community, too.

Right now, we have two great ways for you to help:

If you're in the Triangle region, we're asking you to join us in supporting Equality North Carolina's efforts to defeat the constitutional amendment next Tuesday and/or Wednesday night, when we'll be sending volunteers to help ENC at their office in downtown Raleigh. To volunteer, simply contact sam@equalitync.org -- and let her know that NCAAN sent you!

And wherever you are, please take a moment to sign Equality North Carolina's pledge to vote NO on Amendment One. Just click here and take the pledge.

Please join us -- because ignorance isn't bliss, but winning a fight against HIV-related stigma, discrimination and homophobia really is.

NCAAN Applauds $3M in ADAP Emergency Relief for North Carolina

2011-09-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network applauds the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for releasing $3M in AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) emergency relief funding for North Carolina -- part of a total package of nearly $44M in federal funding for HIV/AIDS care and medications in our state.

"We're pleased to see the federal government recognizing that there's a great need to address HIV/AIDS in North Carolina and in the rest of the South," said NCAAN Executive Director Lisa Hazirjian.

These new funds will allow North Carolina to begin providing life-saving medications to many people living with HIV/AIDS who have been wait-listed for ADAP.

Currently 356 individuals with incomes between 125+% and 300% of the federal poverty line are on North Carolina's ADAP wait list. North Carolina's ADAP currently serves 5400 people with income at or below 125% of the federal poverty line.

Aaron Lucier, Board President of the Pitt County AIDS Service Organization (PiCASO) noted that "this additional funding comes at at a key time for those struggling with balancing needs like food and shelter with getting their medication in our rural areas, small towns and major cities."

Katherine Foster, President of AIDS Care Services, Inc., in Winston-Salem, welcomed the news as well. "These important funds will go a long way in keeping HIV+ individuals healthy and active so they can be there for their families and communities," Foster said. "When those living with HIV have access to life saving anti-retroviral medications, families will be more stable and productive. This has a positive impact on many people, not just those infected with the disease."

NCAAN will continue to talk with key state officials as they determine how many people these new funds will allow them to take off the wait list.

Please help us to keep everyone who cares about HIV/AIDS up-to-date on the latest policy news by inviting them to subscribe to our newsletter and to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

Check Out our New Website & Facebook Campaign!

2011-09-19T10:07:00.001-07:00

Effective advocacy depends upon great communication.

That's why we're thrilled to be launching our brand new website today with a Facebook campaign to raise awareness about the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) waitlist in North Carolina.

We've been working for months on our new website, so please check it out -- you'll find all the details of our One Like, One Ribbon Facebook campaign and much, much more!

Whether we're educating people about important policy issues, publicizing upcoming events, or mobilizing supporters in an advocacy campaign, we need to be able to share information quickly. With our new website and social media tools (and our cool new email system, too) we'll be able to keep you better informed and better engaged in this work.

Take a look and let us know what you think, because today is only the beginning -- we'll be bringing on new communications people in the coming weeks to help us make our these tools even better.

Fair Housing Rights for PLWHA

2011-09-16T13:52:00.001-07:00

North Carolina has a shortage of affordable transitional and permanent housing for people living with HIV/AIDS. And HIV-related stigma can make it more difficult for people to find and keep suitable housing - especially if they face discrimination in the housing market.

These issues concern us all in the HIV/AIDS community.

So we want to make sure you know about upcoming FREE workshops being offered by the The North Carolina Fair Housing Project, part of Legal AIDS North Carolina.

Topics include:

* Fair Housing Rights for People with Disabilities;
* Local Government Obligations to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing; and
* Fair Housing: Know Your Rights.

For more information and to register for upcoming sessions in Raleigh and Durham, please click here.

ADAP Watch

2011-09-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

As of September 15, 2011 there are:

5,861 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,384 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
351 individuals on the waiting list

As of September 8, 2011 there were:

5,834 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,356 are enrolled in ADAP
- 478 are enrolled in SPAP
345 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,804 people. That report shows NC as having 350 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on September 14, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 3.97% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found here.

Stop the Lies. Stop the Stigma. Stop the Anti-LGBT Amendment

2011-09-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

Today, the NC legislature reconvenes to debate House and Senate versions of a bill to amend the state constitution to ban same-sex marriage (which is already illegal in NC) as well as civil unions and domestic partnerships between same-sex couples.

NCAAN staff, interns, and volunteers have fought alongside our coalition partner Equality North Carolina over the past several months to oppose this incredibly hurtful legislation.

We've known from the start that passage of this legislation will lead to a fourteen-month, multi-million dollar media battle full of hurtful lies about gay North Carolinians and harmful lies about HIV/AIDS.

A few nights ago, we got a preview of what's to come if this bill passes, putting the issue on the ballot in 2012.

Speaking at a public forum about why he is lead sponsor of the anti-LGBT amendment, Sen. James Forrester -- who is also a practicing physician -- made this preposterous claim:

"At least 20 years is taken off a homosexual's life if they practice homosexual activity" Forrester said, citing "the increased death rate from AIDS and hepatitis... but that doesn't seem to discourage them from practicing that, um, unhealthy lifestyle.... We need to reach out to them and try to get them to change their lifestyle back to the normal lifestyle."

Heard enough? Because, here's the thing:

If we allow this bill to pass, we're going to keep on hearing this sort of thing over and over and over for the next fourteen months, as those who seek to write discrimination into our state constitution vilify gay people and spread lies about HIV/AIDS.

RIGHT NOW, we have our LAST opportunity to prevent that from happening:

* Right now, please call your state legislators and urge them to oppose the anti-LGBT amendment (you can look them up here);

* Tonight, join a Vigil for Equality at these locations across the state:

Raleigh Vigil for Equality

Bicentennial Plaza, 1 East Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 

Statewide vigils:

Asheville's Vigil for Equality

Vance Monument, downtown Asheville, NC

Charlotte Vigil for Equality 

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1900 The Plaza Charlotte, NC

Duke and Durham: Love=Love Candlelight Vigil

Duke Chapel, 401 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC 

Fayetteville: SANDHILLS ALLIANCE Vigil for Equality

Cross Creek Park, 216 Green Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina

Greensboro Candlelight Vigil for Equality

Guilford County Courthouse Plaza on Greene St (between W. Market St and W. Washington St) FREE parking is available at the Green St. Parking Deck, 211 S Greene St, Greensboro, NC

Greenville Vigil for Equality 

Pitt County Court House, 100 W 3rd St.  Greenville, NC 

Wilmington: UNCW PRIDE Vigil for Equality

UNCW Clock Tower, 601 S. College Rd., Wilmington NC

Winston-Salem Vigil for Equality 

Grace Court Park, 931 West 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC 

* Tomorrow, join the RALLY AGAINST THE ANTI-LGBT AMENDMENT at noon on Halifax Mall in downtown Raleigh at the state legislative complex.

For more details on the rally, click here.

ADAP Watch

2011-09-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

As of September 8, 2011 there are:

5,834 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,356 are enrolled in ADAP
- 478 are enrolled in SPAP
345 individuals on the waiting list

As of September 1, 2011 there were:

5,811 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,334 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
340 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 9,066 people. That report shows NC as having 342 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on September 7, 2011. NC accounts for approximately 3.77% of the national ADAP waiting list. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found here.

Tell Congress NO on Cuts to Medicaid!

2011-09-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

Please read and act on this urgent action alert from AIDS United!

Medicaid could be a target for deep cuts when the “super committee” begins meeting this week. The “super committee,” the group of Congressional Members charged with reducing the federal deficit starts meeting this week—we need to exert pressure now!

Millions of Americans, including persons living with HIV/AIDS, rely on Medicaid for their basic health care needs;
Devastating cuts will put the health of the most vulnerable populations at risk;
Members of Congress are paying close attention to public opinion on this issue as many of them will be up for reelection next year

In a matter of seconds, you can make an impact on this critical issue in one of two easy ways!

Click the "Take Action Now" text above to send an email to your Senators and Representative, telling them that you are strongly AGAINST cutting Medicaid and that they must protect this vital program.
You can also tweet your Senators and Representatives. There will be a default tweet message will be filled in for you.

Learn more about the Super Committee and how their decisions could impact Medicaid

ADAP Watch

2011-09-02T09:15:00.000-07:00

As of September 1, 2011 there are:

5,811 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,334 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
340 individuals on the waiting list

As of August 25, 2011 there were:

5,779 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,302 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
333 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on August 25, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 9,141 people. That report shows NC as having 332 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on August 24, 2011. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found here.

Get Social with NCAAN & NCRHC

2011-08-31T06:39:00.000-07:00

Who: Everyone who cares about HIV/AIDS & enjoys getting to know other people who share their commitments.

What: North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) / NC Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC) social mixer.

When: Wednesday, September 7th, 6:30-8:30pmWhere: The Station/Southern Rail, 201-C East Main Street, Carrboro, NC 27510.

Why: Lots of reasons...

* We'll be celebrating NCHRC's work to bring the conference "Reducing Harm & Building Communities: Addressing Drug Use in the South" to the Research Triangle;

* We'll be bringing people together to forge community ties among people who care about HIV/AIDS, and to provide people from each organization an opportunity to meet one another; and,

* We'll be working together to raise awareness about the need for sensible harm reduction policies to prevent the spread of HIV & hepatitis.

How: Just gather up your friends and join us at the Station/Southern Rail on Wednesday night! Suggested donation of $10; all proceeds go to benefit NCAAN & NCHRC.

Look forward to seeing you there!

ADAP Watch

2011-08-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

As of August 25, 2011 there are:

5,779 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,302 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
333 individuals on the waiting list

As of August 18, 2011 there were:

5,756 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,279 are enrolled in ADAP
- 477 are enrolled in SPAP
328 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on August 19, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 9,201 people. That report shows NC as having 327 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on August 17, 2011. NASTAD’s ADAP Watch can be found here.

NCAAN Announces Funding Opportunity to Encourage Local HIV Advocacy

2011-08-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network is pleased to announce a funding opportunity for 501(c)(3) organizations doing significant HIV-related work in North Carolina.

Four grants of $2500 each are intended specifically to encourage regional community organizing and HIV advocacy capacity-building projects. We are grateful to AIDS United for supporting this initiative.

For fuller details, including instructions on how to apply, please read our RFP.

We look forward to reviewing your proposals!

Hurricane Preparedness Update for ADAP & SPAP

2011-08-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

As a public service, we are passing along Hurricane Preparedness information issued today by the NC Department of Health & Human Services for NC ADAP & SPAP patients:

In preparation for this weekends expected severe weather, Walgreens has processed shipments early. By tomorrow they will have sent out any confirmed shipments that are due by September 1, including bulk delivery sites. In the event of an emergency, the best way to reach Walgreens is by calling the call center. Providers and case managers should call 1-888-516-8003. Clients should call 1-800-573-3602. Calls to the call center will be answered by operators in other parts of the country if the Orlando location loses power. The call center can assist if a client runs out of medication, needs to refill early or needs new medication delivered to an alternate address. In the event of a power or phone outage, as a last resort, clients can go to any Walgreens store in North Carolina (or bordering Walgreens Districts in VA and SC) and identify themselves as an NC ADAP or NC SPAP patient and the staff will do their best to assist them.

Why Intern with NCAAN?

2011-08-22T14:07:00.001-07:00

We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have had amazing interns at NCAAN this past spring and summer. As a small organization, we truly depend upon the talent and energy that motivated interns bring to our work. We literally could not accomplish our goals without them.

So it's no wonder that we're putting out the call for new interns, with five exciting new openings:

* Communication Intern

* Community Organizing Intern

* Development Intern

* Public Policy Intern

* Special Events Intern

To learn more & apply, check out our official posting on Idealist.

And please, help us spread the word about why anyone with a passion for fighting for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and the ability to make a serious commitment to us for the next three months should apply.

Here are three things that really stand out about NCAAN as an internship host:

1) NCAAN interns get to work directly with the Executive Director, Board members, and coalition partners. That means that our interns get the benefit of working alongside professionals who can mentor them. And it means that when our student interns look for post-graduate employment, we can speak firsthand about the great work they've done with us.

2) NCAAN interns get to be treated like essential members of the team. That's the feedback we've gotten from past interns who've told us how much they appreciated being treated like a true colleague. And it's no wonder--because our interns really are essential to our work.

3) NCAAN interns get to show off their talents and develop the skills required for their future career paths. Simply put, we need more talented and ambitious people working together to reach our goals--so when we find people with talent and ambition, we put those traits to good use. And in this job market, the most competitive job applicants are the ones who can demonstrate that they've already developed and used specific skill sets to help an organization reach its goals.

We want our interns to have a great experience that's a true win-win.

It all starts by putting the word out... so please help us spread the word!

ADAP Watch

2011-08-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

As of August 11, 2011 there are:

5,756 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,279 are enrolled in ADAP
477 are enrolled in SPAP

328 individuals on the waiting list

As of August 11, 2011 there were:

5,727 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)

5,251 are enrolled in ADAP
476 are enrolled in SPAP
322 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 12 states with waiting lists, totaling 9,217 people. That report shows NC as having 318 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on August 10, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found here.

AIDS United Publishes State Profile on NC HIV/AIDS Info

2011-08-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

Looking for information about HIV/AIDS in North Carolina?

AIDS United has just published new state profiles on HIV/AIDS across the United States.

Check out their detailed profile for North Carolina. Post your feedback & we'll pass it along!

Hats Off to ALFA!

2011-08-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

If you read the news regularly, you know that HIV doesn't make many headlines these days. Media silence about HIV can be hard to break--and those silences perpetuate ignorance and HIV-related stigma.

So we wanted to give special recognition to our friends at ALFA in Hickory, who recently broke that silence in an unexpected place: Wilkes County.

This story in the Wilkes Journal-Patriot packed a lot of punch:

* It dispelled the myth that HIV is an exclusively urban problem; in fact, 1 in 4 HIV cases in NC are first diagnosed in rural areas;

* It drew attention to the availability of care services outside of urban centers; and,

* It publicized opportunities for community institutions to partner with ALFA in providing testing services in "non-traditional" sites, from college campuses to clubs to churches.

So: Hats off to our friends at ALFA for the great coverage--we love to see it!

ADAP Watch

2011-08-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

As of August 11, 2011 there are:

5,727 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,251 are enrolled in ADAP
- 476 are enrolled in SPAP
322 individuals on the waiting list

As of August 4, 2011 there were:

5,685 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,211 are enrolled in ADAP
- 474 are enrolled in SPAP
316 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 9,039 people. That report shows NC as having 316 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on August 4, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found here.

"A Ludicrous Delay"

2011-08-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Few people speak as intelligently and pointedly about NC policy issues as Chris Fitzsimon at NC Policy Watch.

So we're going to let him speak for himself about the latest atrocities in the unfolding Medicaid story. Excerpts quoted below; you can read the full story at the Fitzsimon Files:

Lawmakers slashed $356 million from the Medicaid budget in the current fiscal year, and another 407 million next year. State Medicaid dollars are matched two to one by the federal government so the cuts take a total of more than $2 billion dollars out of the program.

That funding not only supports tens of thousands of jobs in the health care industry, it pays for services to children, seniors, pregnant women, people with a disability, people living with HIV/AIDS, and other vulnerable populations.

Republicans didn’t slash many specific Medicaid programs and services. They were too politically smart to do that. Instead they ordered the Department of Health and Human Services to come up with the savings—even if that means slashing vital services.....

State officials say almost everything is on the table, like no longer providing prosthetics to people who lose an arm or leg, ending dental services for seniors, even stopping prescription drug coverage.

The more you hear, the worse it sounds. Doctors could only prescribe life-saving medication for people living with HIV/AIDS after prior authorization, a ludicrous delay since the patient literally needs the drugs to survive.

As the North Carolina AIDS Action Network points out, a recent multinational study led by researchers at UNC found that early drug treatment for HIV/AIDS patients reduces transmission rates as much as 96 percent.

Nobody should need some additional authorization to prevent more people from being infected with HIV or to help people stay alive who are living with the disease.

And state officials shouldn’t have to make it harder for people with Multiple Sclerosis to see a doctor or even remotely consider denying an artificial limb to a woman who loses an arm or leg.

They shouldn’t have to, but they do because of the draconian and heartless budget the Republicans approved.

They ought to be ashamed.

Let's Get Visual

2011-08-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Recently, we sat down with Durham-based documentary artist Lisa Marie Albert to talk about ways to harness the creativity of the HIV/AIDS community and the expressive power of the visual arts to advance our goals.

So it was only natural that we'd turn to her for suggestions on how to create Visual Media Tool Kits that will provide people with new ways to express their compassion, their concern, and their commitment to fighting for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS, their loved ones, and people at risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS in North Carolina.

And that's where you come in. We're asking everyone to collect materials to donate to NCAAN for our Visual Media Tool Kits project. Here are some of Lisa Marie's suggestions of the types of things we can use:

- poster board and canvasses

- old magazines to cut from (words, letters, pictures)

- scissors

- lots of new markers, lots of colors

- crayons

- paint (acrylic or poster paint)

- paintbrushes

- pencils

- glue (wet for glitter, and glue sticks for magazines)

- glitter or glitter paint

- other arts & crafts stuff

- colored tissue paper

- construction/art/scrap booking paper

- stencils for words/lettering

- modge podge (dries very clear, so good for use over magazine/tissue)

- condoms (for gluing to posters as part of the art)

- dental dams (if you can get some)

- beads (could glue them on for more decoration)

- double-sided tape

- other stuff, too!!!

Have stuff to donate? Drop an email to Lisa at lisa@ncaan.org & we'll figure out the best way to connect based on your location!

Cost-Cutting Measures May Cause Treatment Delays for PLWHA

2011-08-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

According to a story from the News & Observer, a Medicaid panel is hearing options for extra budget cuts. These cuts may include a requirement for prior authorization for doctors to prescribe HIV/AIDS medication.

Over the summer, NCAAN worked hard advocating in the state legislature to make sure there was no requirement for prior authorization for people living with HIV/AIDS, and we succeeded.

However, the state budget requires more than $350 million in cuts. Further, because the federal government gives $2 to the state Medicaid program for every $1 made by the state, this means the actual cuts to the North Carolina state Medicaid program will total more than $1 billion. A Medicaid panel outlined where these cost-cutting measures would come from included a variety of things, including a requirement for prior authorization for HIV/AIDS medications.

Prior Authorization impedes access by requiring doctors to get authorization from Medicaid before prescribing these life-saving drugs. Studies show that prior authorization requirements significantly delay access to these life-saving medications. Any delay in treatment caused by these requirements threatens the lives and health of people living with HIV/AIDS. Treatment interruptions can also create drug-resistant strains of HIV. Also, A new UNC-led multinational study shows early treatment with HIV/AIDS medications may reduce transmission rates by up to 96%.

We need you to stand with NCAAN in opposing any prior authorization requirement for HIV/AIDS medications, and the threat it poses to people living with HIV/AIDS.

ADAP Watch

2011-08-05T14:03:00.000-07:00

As of August 4, 2011 there are:

5,685 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,211 are enrolled in ADAP
- 474 are enrolled in SPAP
316 individuals on the waiting list

As of July 28, 2011 there were:

5,633 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,163 are enrolled in ADAP
- 470 are enrolled in SPAP
313 individuals on the waiting list

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,871 people. That report shows NC as having 313 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on July 27, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found here.

Medicaid Matters

2011-08-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

This spring, NCAAN worked with coalition partners to make sure that the state budget retained key provisions that enable Medicaid-qualified people living with HIV/AIDS to receive their prescribed medications without bureaucratic delays.

That was a huge victory.

Yet as this article in today's News and Observer reports, the cuts to Medicaid are far from over--and a lot is at stake for the HIV community.

That's because people living with HIV/AIDS who qualify for Medicaid depend on the program for a fuller range of medical services, including doctor's visits, hospital visits, dental care, and eye care.

Cuts to reimbursements rates make health care providers less willing to see Medicaid patients, worsening shortages of doctors who treat people living with HIV/AIDS. So would elimination of "optional" services like dental care, in a state where we already lack enough dental providers for people living with HIV/AIDS.

NCAAN will continue working with other health care advocates to limit the damage caused by the recent state budget cuts--and you can help.

Do you have a story about how Medicaid has helped you or someone you know? Share it with us here, or send it to us privately at stories@ncaan.org -- your personal experiences will help us to illustrate the tangible benefits of Medicaid and the real-world consequences of any cuts to this vital health care program.

North Carolina ADAP Watch

2011-07-29T12:46:00.000-07:00

As of July 28, 2011 there are:

5,633 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,163 are enrolled in ADAP
- 470 are enrolled in SPAP
313 individuals on the waiting list

As of July 21, 2011 there were:

5,594 individuals enrolled in HIV/AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAP & SPAP)
- 5,125 are enrolled in ADAP
- 469 are enrolled in SPAP
308 individuals on the waiting list

We Love Your Letters!

2011-07-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who's been writing to Secretary Cansler's office to urge him to preserve state funding for HIV programs -- especially those of you who've copied us on your notes & passed along any feedback you've heard back.

Haven't written yet? Drop a note to Secretary Cansler right now at lanier.cansler@dhhs.nc.gov -- it can be just a quick line or two, or a longer note, like this great one that came in yesterday from Greensboro:

Dear Secretary Cansler,

I'm writing this email to urge you to PLEASE continue the much-needed HIV funding for the state of North Carolina. As a graduate student in the field of public health as well as an advocate of HIV/AIDS awareness for over 20 years, I understand the need for programs to help families affected by this pandemic. I'm also a regular volunteer and supporter of Triad Health Project.

According to the 2010 Guilford County Health Report, " The average rate of HIV disease in Guilford County over the three year period 2007-2009 was the seventh highest of the hundred counties in North Carolina, exceeding the state average rate." I'm a resident of Guilford County and this tells me that the need for HIV/AIDS prevention education and support is still crucial to the health of the population of this area. The HIV/AIDS pandemic is NOT over...many individuals and families continue to struggle for housing, employment and benefits those of us who are HIV negative have the privilege to enjoy every day. Let's not forget the AIDS discrimination and stigma that continues into 2011. Education, through state and federal funding, is the key to fighting this preventable disease.

I appreciate your time and look forward to the day when there is a cure. Until then, let's continue to do everything we can to provide the necessary support and services of agencies such as Triad Health Project.

Thank you,

Bridget S. Thomas

Greensboro, NC

Email Cansler to DOUBLE Your Impact!

2011-07-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

This morning, NCAAN delivered 176 petition postcards to NC Health & Human Services Secretary Cansler's office urging him to preserve funding for HIV programs.

You can help us to DOUBLE THE IMPACT of these cards by sending a quick email message to Secretary Cansler right now. Here's all you need to do:

1) Address an email to Secretary Cansler at lanier.cansler@dhhs.nc.gov, and cc: your note to info@ncaan.org

2) Write a brief note like this:

Dear Secretary Cansler, I'm writing to urge you to keep all funding for HIV programs. These programs are a smart investment for the state because they save lives AND save money. Thank you.

3) Sign with your name and address

4) Send!

That's all there is to it -- and you'll be helping to prevent cuts to state grants to the non-profit organizations that provide critical prevention, testing, and care programs.

Your quick email can make a huge difference for the thousands of people who benefit from prevention education programs at their local AIDS service organization; for the thousands who get tested at college campuses, churches, and community events across the state; and for the thousands of people living with HIV/AIDS for whom early detection and access to care offers the best promise of a long, productive life.

Support AIDS United Call to Protect Programs

2011-07-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

As the United States Congress continues to debate how to cut the federal deficit, AIDS United needs your help to prevent harmful cuts to federal HIV/AIDS programs. Please join the AIDS United campaign to protect critical services for millions of Americans, including persons living with HIV/AIDS.

Tell Congress that proposals gutting critical services provided through Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps, and other safety net programs are unacceptable. Call today with this message.

And pass the message on - tell everyone you know who cares about HIV/AIDS to make the call.

Tell Congress to support a fair and balanced approach that will prevent harmful cuts to federal programs and spending that could negatively impact health care and low-income programs, including those for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Stunning New Discovery in HIV Prevention Study

2011-07-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

This week, researchers from UNC Chapel Hill are presenting an exciting new study that showed early treatment of HIV-infected people led to a 96 percent reduction in transmission of the the virus to their uninfected partners. This study is exciting news, and we're proud that this ground-breaking research came from right here in North Carolina.

These prevention benefits, however, rely on early detection and early treatment of HIV. It is therefore essential that North Carolina fully support HIV testing and treatment services.

North Carolina needs to ensure that HIV testing and treatment is made a top budget priority. Without a full funding commitment to early detection and early treatment, North Carolina may miss out a huge opportunity to fight the spread of HIV.

We Still Have a Chance

2011-07-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

We still have a chance to save funding for HIV programs. Will you help?

Last week, we alerted you that the new state budget requires the NC Department of Health and Human Services to cut $5 million worth of grant funding for nonprofit organizations—and that this could mean disaster for AIDS service organizations, which rely upon state grants to run the critical prevention, testing, and care programs.

Thanks to the huge outpouring of calls last week from people like you, the North Carolina AIDS Action Network gained access to a high-level official in the Department.

Our conversation confirmed our belief that we’re going to have to compete to hold onto HIV funds.

That’s why we’re asking you again this week to leave a message for the NC Secretary of Health and Human Services, Lanier Cansler, letting him know how important it is to invest in HIV programs.

All you need is a phone and about 45 seconds to make a big difference this week. Simply call Secretary Cansler’s office at 919-855-4800 and leave a message like this one.

My name is _____, and I live in [town], North Carolina. I’m calling to urge Secretary Cansler to protect HIV funding. HIV programs are a smart investment for the state because they save lives AND save money. Thank you.

Less than one minute of your time can make a huge difference for the thousands of people who benefit from prevention education programs at their local AIDS service organization; for the thousands who get tested at college campuses, churches, and community events across the state; and for the thousands of people living with HIV/AIDS for whom early detection and access to care offers the best promise of a long, productive life.

For all of us – please make the call: 919-855-4800.

ADAP Watch

2011-07-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

As of July 14, 2011 there are:

5,554 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
307 individuals on the waiting list.

As of July 7, 2011 there were:

5,514 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
297 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,689 people. That report shows NC as having 302 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on July 13, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

URGENT: Action Needed to Save HIV Funding

2011-07-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

Vital funding for HIV programs is in danger. We need your help today to save it!

The new state budget requires the NC Department of Health and Human Services to cut $5 million worth of grant funding for nonprofit organizations. That could mean disaster for AIDS service organizations, which rely upon state grants to run the critical prevention, testing, and care programs that save lives and dollars over the long haul.

We know that thousands of North Carolinians like you care passionately about saving these programs—and right now, we need for the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Lanier Cansler, to hear from you.

So please, pick up your phone right now and leave a quick message for Secretary Cansler. You can reach his office at 919-855-4800. When you call, simply leave a message like this one:

For all of us – please make the call: 919-855-4800.

Until There's a Cure

2011-07-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

We’re excited that the National Institutes of Health have granted $32 million toward scientific research toward a cure for HIV. And, we’re proud of the leading role that University of North Carolina researchers will play in this study.

It’s exciting to think about a future when there’s a cure for HIV. Yet here in the present, the reality remains that 1 in 5 people living with HIV in North Carolina don’t even know they’re infected.

Until there’s a cure, we need HIV education and testing programs to empower people to take control of their health—and we need access to care, including anti-retroviral medication, for people living with HIV/AIDS.

HIV Prevention Requires Education

2011-07-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

It’s hardly news that HIV prevention requires education.

But we’re glad to see USA Today spreading the news that, in the South, there’s a tremendous need for education that dispels myths about HIV and empowers people with accurate information about how to minimize their risk of infection.

If you have a story about the value of HIV prevention education, we’d love to hear it. Please share your comments below!

ADAP Watch

2011-07-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

As of July 7, 2011 there are:

5,514 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
297 individuals on the waiting list.

As of June 30, 2011 there were:

5,463 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
292 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,655 people. That report shows NC as having 297 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on July 7, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-07-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

As of June 30, 2011 there are:

· 5,463 individuals enrolled in ADAP.

· 292 individuals on the waiting list.

As of June 16, 2011 there were:

· 5,426 individuals enrolled in ADAP.

· 288 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,615 people. That report shows NC as having 292 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on June 30, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

We Are All Winners

2011-06-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

The HIV/AIDS community accomplished what many considered impossible during the recent state budget battle. At a time when many vital programs suffered severe budgetary cuts, we maintained state funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program and for HIV prevention. And we preserved the Medicaid provision that exempts HIV medications from burdensome prior authorization requirements.

These are huge wins for the HIV/AIDS community.

We’re especially grateful to every one of the 150-plus people who came to HIV/AIDS Advocacy Day this spring. Your conversations with elected officials helped to educate members of the General Assembly, and your personal stories helped them to see how HIV affects our lives.

And we’re indebted to every one of the 70-plus people who’ve volunteered with us since December. Your participation has allowed NCAAN to become a stronger advocacy organization, one that now boasts nearly 2500 Action Team members from across the state.

Please join us in celebrating these recent victories by visiting us on Facebook and telling us how these big wins affect you.

You’ll be helping us to celebrate an important set of victories, helping us to expand our social network, and helping us to gather the stories that will help us to win future campaigns for better HIV/AIDS policies for all of North Carolina.

ADAP Watch

2011-06-27T06:15:00.000-07:00

As of June 23, 2011 there are:

5,426 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
288 individuals on the waiting list.

As of June 16, 2011 there were:

5,387 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
282 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,506 people. That report shows NC as having 285 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on June 22, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

An Incredible Opportunity

2011-06-25T13:12:00.001-07:00

Right now, we have an incredible opportunity to find new supporters in key regions around the state, thanks to a special grant from Blueprint NC. And our greatest asset -- our members -- are the key to our success.

We need your help over the next two weeks to launch a new program where we'll be reaching out to North Carolina voters on the phone, talking with likely supporters about HIV-related policy issues and asking everyone who cares about HIV/AIDS to join our Action Team.

So please, sign up now for one, two, three, or four of our upcoming volunteer events in the Triangle -- you'll be helping us to reach our goal of recruiting over 600 new Action Team members in high-priority legislative districts.

ADAP Watch

2011-06-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

As of June 16, 2011 there are:

5,387 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
282 individuals on the waiting list.

As of June 9, 2011 there were:

5,348 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
274 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,404 people. That report shows NC as having 282 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on June 16, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-06-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

As of June 9, 2011 there are:

5,348 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
274 individuals on the waiting list.

As of June 2, 2011 there were:

5,290 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
267 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on June 3, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,111 people. That report shows NC as having 262 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on June 1, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-06-06T07:24:00.000-07:00

Please note the following:

As of June 2, 2011 there are:

5,290 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
267 individuals on the waiting list.

As of May 26, 2011 there were:

5,240 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
256 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,111 people. That report shows NC as having 262 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on June 1, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-05-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

As of May 26, 2011 there are:

5,240 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
256 individuals on the waiting list.

As of May 19, 2011 there were:

5,191 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
242 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on May 20, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,310 people. That report shows NC as having 242 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on May 19, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-05-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

As of May 19, 2011 there are:

5,191 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
242 individuals on the waiting list.

As of May 12, 2011 there were:

5,132 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
237 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on May 13, there are 13 states with waiting lists, totaling 8,100 people. Alabama started a waiting list last week and Utah has reinstituted their waiting list. That report shows NC as having 235 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on May 11, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

HIV Prevention Under Attack!

2011-05-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Funding for HIV/AIDS testing and education is under attack in the state legislature!

The North Carolina General Assembly’s proposed budget includes a provision that would bar Planned Parenthood from receiving any state funds or grants. Planned Parenthood is a key part of the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS. Nearly 30 percent of women tested for HIV are tested at family planning clinics like Planned Parenthood.

Help us fight back!

Tell you legislator to oppose any budget that reduces access to HIV/AIDS education and testing.

North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) supports Planned Parenthood for the essential role it plays to provide HIV-related care to underserved populations in North Carolina.

Every year, 25,000 men and women across North Carolina turn to Planned Parenthood for vital medical and educational services. For six in ten of these patients, Planned Parenthood staff are the only medical professionals they will see in a given year. In 2010 alone they provided more than 18,000 tests for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. For many patients, contact with Planned Parenthood may be the best – or only – opportunity for potentially life-saving HIV-related services.

Tell your legislator you oppose any provision that will compromise access of low-income people to HIV/AIDS-related education and funding.

Together, we can fight back against this politically motivated attack on a trusted ally in the fight to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in North Carolina.

ADAP Watch

2011-05-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

As of May 12, 2011 there are:

5,132 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
237 individuals on the waiting list.

As of May 5, 2011 there were:

5,077 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
224 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on May 6, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,873 people. That report shows NC as having 216 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on May 4, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

NCAAN NEEDS YOU at AIDS Walk + Ride

2011-05-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

Calling all NCAAN Volunteers!

We're going to need a LOT of help at the AIDS Walk + Ride next Saturday, May 21st, in downtown Raleigh -- can you volunteer with us that day? We need people to staff our table & circulate in the crowd with petition postcards & volunteer sign-up sheets. Click here to sign up.

AIDS Walk + Ride organizers anticipate as many as TWO THOUSAND people will be at the event. The only way we can talk to them all in one day is to have LOTS of volunteers working together to make the most of this HUGE opportunity.

So please, make volunteering with NCAAN at the AIDS Walk + Ride your priority next weekend -- and bring along a friend or two as well! It promises to be a ton of fun, and you'll be making a BIG difference, too. Click here to sign up.

PS: Don't think you can help because you're participating in the Walk + Ride? We've come up with three ways you can pitch in, too -- please click the link & select the ones that work for you!

ADAP Watch

2011-05-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

As of May 5, 2011 there are:

5,077 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
224 individuals on the waiting list.

As of April 28, 2011 there were:

4,992 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
206 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on April 29, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,762 people. That report shows NC as having 204 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on April 27, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

Calling all Charlotte & Triad Volunteers!

2011-05-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

May is heating up with two HUGE opportunities for us to build a bigger, stronger statewide advocacy network. Can you help us make the most of our upcoming events?:

* On Saturday, May 7th, we'll be at the AIDS Walk in Charlotte, 8am to 11am, collecting postcards to Members of Congress urging them to secure more federal funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). We're looking for at least TWENTY people to volunteer with us in the Queen City. Sign up HERE.

* On Saturday, May 14th, we'll be in Greensboro at Triad Health Project's HUGE community party at the Terrace at Greensboro Coliseum. We can use at least 25 volunteer that evening, with shifts starting at 7:30pm & 9pm. Sign up HERE!

We've got more in store later this month, too -- so if you don't see an event near you, check back soon!

ADAP Watch

2011-04-29T11:54:00.000-07:00

As of April 28, 2011 there are:

4,992 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
206 individuals on the waiting list.

As of April 21, 2011 there were:

4,928 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
200 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on April 22, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,674 people. That report shows NC as having 194 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on April 20, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-04-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

As of April 21, 2011 there are:

4,928 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
200 individuals on the waiting list.

As of April 14, 2011 there were:

4,714 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
181 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on April 15, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,885 people. That report shows NC as having 178 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on April 13, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-04-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

As of April 14, 2011 there are:

4,714 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
181 individuals on the waiting list.

As of April 7, 2011 there were:

4,362 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
146 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,885 people. That report shows NC as having 178 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on April 13, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-04-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

As of April 7, 2011 there are:

4,362 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
146 individuals on the waiting list.

As of March 31, 2011 there were:

6,591 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
188 individuals on the waiting list.

The decrease in the number of individuals enrolled in ADAP and on the ADAP waiting list this week is a result of the end of the annual reauthorization period. The Ryan White/ADAP fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31. Every year all clients enrolled in ADAP and on the ADAP waiting list are required to reauthorize (reapply for ADAP) if they continue to need medication coverage through ADAP or want to maintain their ADAP waiting list status. The Annual reauthorization period ended on March 31, 2011. Yesterday’s counts represent all clients who successfully reauthorized by the deadline, new clients added this week and applications submitted this week by clients who missed the reauthorization deadline.

The program remains open to enrollment for applicants with a net income at or below 125% of the federal poverty level.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,900 people. That report shows NC as having 138 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on April 6, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-04-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

(Don't forget to sign up for HIV/AIDS Advocacy Day, coming up on Wednesday, April 13th!)

As of March 31, 2011 there are:

6,591 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
188 individuals on the waiting list.

As of March 24, 2011 there were:

6,519 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
177 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on March 25, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,553 people. That report shows NC as having 177 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on March 23, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

It's NCAAN Volunteer Engagement Week in the Triangle...

2011-03-21T12:01:00.001-07:00

ADAP Watch

2011-03-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

As of March 17, 2011 there are:

6,464 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
164 individuals on the waiting list.

As of March 10, 2011 there were:

6,392 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
145 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on March 11, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,261 people. That report shows NC as having 139 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on March 9, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-03-11T12:19:00.000-08:00

As of March 10, 2011 there are:

6,392 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
145 individuals on the waiting list.

As of March 3, 2011 there were:

6,336 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
134 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 7,261 people. That report shows NC as having 139 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on March 9, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-03-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

As of March 3, 2011 there are:

6,336 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
134 individuals on the waiting list.

As of February 24, 2011 there were:

6,308 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
129 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,972 people. That report shows NC as having 133 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on March 2, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

Register Now for HIV/AIDS Advocacy Day!

2011-03-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

Are you worried about the future of funding for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs in North Carolina—including funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program, which currently serves 6308 people in our state?

Are you frustrated that syringe possession is still illegal in our state, despite clear evidence that decriminalization of syringe possession actually decreases injection drug use and prevents the spread of HIV/AIDS?

Are you maddened by the ignorance and fear that many of our elected officials still have about HIV/AIDS?

Then sign up now to join us in Raleigh for the 2011 HIV/AIDS Advocacy Day on Wednesday, April 13^th.

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network and the North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition have teamed up to create an exciting event, including opportunities to learn the latest information about HIV/AIDS policies, to develop your advocacy skills, to share our stories with elected officials and education them on our issues, and to connect with fellow HIV/AIDS advocates from around the state. If you want to be part of this exciting day, please sign up now.

We need you there in order to reach our goal of bringing together over a hundred HIV/AIDS advocates from across the state to demonstrate widespread support for smart, sound HIV/AIDS policies, and to show our elected officials how much we value people living with HIV/AIDS. Please, register now to help us meet that goal.

We look forward to seeing you in Raleigh!

ADAP Watch

2011-02-28T13:49:00.001-08:00

As of February 24, 2011 there are:

6,308 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
129 individuals on the waiting list.

As of February 17, 2011 there were:

6,274 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
128 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,704 people. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-02-18T16:24:00.000-08:00

As of February 17, 2011 there are:

6,274 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
128 individuals on the waiting list.

As of February 10, 2011 there were:

6,241 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
121 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 11 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,452 people. Idaho restarted a waiting list this week. That report shows NC as having 127 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on February 16, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-02-11T13:25:00.000-08:00

As of February 10, 2011 there are:

6,241 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
121 individuals on the waiting list.

As of February 3, 2011 there were:

6,218 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
115 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,235 people. That report shows NC as having 117 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on February 9, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-02-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

As of February 3, 2011 there are:

6,218 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
115 individuals on the waiting list.

As of January 27, 2011 there were:

6,183 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
107 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released today, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 6,001 people. That report shows NC as having 114 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on February 2, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

Rally in Raleigh

2011-01-31T11:33:00.000-08:00

Join the North Carolina AIDS Action Network (NCAAN) as our multiracial team stands with the NAACP for the 5th Annual Historic Thousands on Jones St (HKonJ) March & Rally in Raleigh on Saturday, February 12th, 2011.

This event is one of the very biggest opportunities we'll have all year to reach thousands of potential supporters in just a few hours--but we can't do it without a huge Action Team volunteering at the event.

So sign up now -- and bring your friends along, too!

For more information, contact Lisa at 919-576-0448 or lisa@ncaan.org

ADAP Watch

2011-01-31T08:28:00.000-08:00

As of January 27, 2011 there are:

6,183 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
107 individuals on the waiting list.

As of January 20, 2011 there were:

6,154 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
103 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on January 21, 2011, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 5,550 people. That report shows NC as having 103 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on January 20, 2011.

ADAP Watch

2011-01-21T14:03:00.000-08:00

As of January 20, 2011 there are:

6,154 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
103 individuals on the waiting list.

As of January 13, 2011 there were:

6,141 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
100 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on January 14, 2011, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 5,387 people. That report shows NC as having 100 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on January 13, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

ADAP Watch

2011-01-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

As of January 13, 2011 there are:

6,141 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
100 individuals on the waiting list.

As of January 6, 2011 there were:

6,128 individuals enrolled in ADAP.
100 individuals on the waiting list.

According to NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch, released on January 7, 2011, there are 10 states with waiting lists, totaling 5,154 people. That report shows NC as having 99 clients on the waiting list, which was our official count at COB on January 5, 2011. NASTAD’s most recent ADAP Watch can be found by following this link.

Does Rep. Larry Brown make you angry?

2011-01-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

By now, you've probably heard State Rep. Larry Brown's statement that the government shouldn't spend money to "help people living in perverted lifestyles" by treating people with HIV who "caused it by the way they live."

It's awful and hurtful when public officials make remarks that perpetuate homophobia and HIV-stigma -- and it’s even worse when we feel like there’s nothing we can do about it.

But now, there is something you can do.

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network has just launched our 2011 legislative advocacy campaign, and we want your help.

Take our Pledge to Protect AIDS Programs.

We’ll let you know about advocacy opportunities that you can participate in from your computer, your home town, and at the state Capitol.

It's easy -- just sign up here.

Together, we’ll make sure that people with HIV and AIDS receive the treatment they need.