H.Y.P.E (HIV Youth Prevention Education)

(213) 553-1839

H.Y.P.E (HIV Youth Prevention Education) is APAIT's new youth program, targeting API transgenders and men who have sex with men from the ages of 14 to 24. This population is at high risk for new HIV infection due to the variety of challenges these youth face, including a sense of isolation, belief in their own invulnerability, and difficulty negotiating culture and orientation. H.Y.P.E attempts to build community awareness and seek out at risk youth through regular outreach. We offer individual level counseling and the Street Smart curriculum, a series of group workshops that will engage youth and inspire them in regards to their risks about HIV while allowing them to build vital support networks among other young people facing the same challenges. There is also a Peer Health Educator component, offering the chance for interested youths to become leaders in teaching HIV and risk-reduction strategies to their peers. H.Y.P.E offers a rare forum for young gay males and transgenders to address their risks and began behavior change.