Latino Youth in Action
For more than 11 years, Latino Youth in Action has provided leadership training to Latino youth to fight the spread of HIV. Since its inception, the program has graduated over 300 young men and women under the age of 24 in the South Bronx and Western Queens. In spite of a loss of funding from the AIDS Institute, HAF continues to provide significant support to Latino Queer youth in the South Bronx. In recent months, LYIA has been busy sharing with other community based organizations its unique strategies and successes for reaching other youth. LYIA presented at three major AIDS Conferences: Reunion Latina, March 2007; CDC DASH Conference, April 2007; and HPLS, May 2007.
Training
Latino Youth In Action is a leadership and HIV prevention program targeting young individuals between the ages of 14-24.
The program runs in two of our three locations, Bronx and Queens. We welcome gay, lesbian, bisexual, questioning and transgender youth to join our leadership program where in 16 sessions you will learn information on HIV prevention, sexually transmitted infections, and other crucial topics that will shape and hone the educating leader in you.
Once the training finishes, you will have the opportunity to use your talents (dance, singing, poetry, music, etc.) and creativity and plan and perform in special events focused in spreading prevention messages among other youth. We will also hold workshops, youth forums, health fairs and other social activities for you.
Individual & Emotional Support
Individual emotional counseling is offered for youth living with HIV/AIDS or youth who are at high risk of HIV infection based on risk behavior.
The service is available in two forms: individual or group. Individual emotional support services are confidential, short term (16 sessions) and free.
We can help you better understand and work through emotional difficulties caused by the challenges presented by coming out, talking about sexuality, living with HIV and discussing HIV risk behavior.
Our counselors are young like you and know exactly what to teach in order to make the best decisions for your healthy future.
Events & Workshops
LYIA plans several events during the year where members can gather and share resources and education on HIV prevention, sexually transmittable infections, homophobia, self esteem and family support.
During these events, members have the opportunity to share information through the use of their own voice and talents. These events take place approximately four times a year and in past years have included plays, singing, dance, poetry and other forms of creative expression.
We also offer educational and HIV prevention workshops for young audiences in the New York area. These workshops take place in schools, youth service agencies, and other community based youth organizations. Join our electronic mailing list and stay informed an the latest information on upcoming LYIA events.