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Member Spotlight – Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry
Why was your organization founded?
Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry (NOVAM) was founded in 1987 by concerned faith communities in Northern Virginia in response to the AIDS crisis. NOVAM has grown into one of the leading AIDS-services organizations in the region, providing education and direct client services to people affected/infected with HIV/AIDS. NOVAM serves the five Northern Virginia jurisdictions: Arlington, Fairfax, Loudon and Prince William Counties and the Cities of Alexandria and Falls Church.
Why is your organization unique? How do you affect the quality of life in Virginia?
NOVAM presents HIV Prevention Education Programs to nearly 30,000 adolescents and young people in Northern Virginia each year. These programs combine facts about preventing HIV and STD transmission with a life-affirming message that young people can take control of their lives and change their behaviors to protect themselves.
NOVAM's Children's Services Programs serve nearly 200 families with children affected/infected with HIV/AIDS by linking them to existing social services to meet their needs and providing mentors and tutors for the children. Diapers, car seats, and children’s clothing are also provided for new mothers.
NOVAM's Transportation Program enables clients to maintain their health by reaching their regular medical and other necessary appointments. Over 17,000 rides are given each year.
What recent accomplishment are you most proud of?
This past August NOVAM enabled six youth ages 9 to 16 to attend Camp Dreamcatcher in central Pennsylvania for a full week. Camp Dreamcatcher provides a safe, supportive environment for children who are infected/affected by HIV/AIDS. The youth that attended are enrolled in NOVAM's PALS Mentoring program. NOVAM facilitated all paperwork for the campers and provided transportation to and from the camp. This past year Annandale High School's Safe Club worked together with our Youthspeak Program to collect over $2,000 in camp supplies which were also donated to the camp.
Submitted by Regan Davis, Special Events & Development Manager