heterosexual Serodifferent couple with therapist

Dedicated to identifying diverse, conventional and unconventional, resources.

The Reginald and Dionne Smith Foundation (RDSF) is dedicated to providing comprehensive HIV/AIDS support services, viral Hepatitis education, and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) recovery options. Our mission embraces diverse paths to wellness, offering a wide spectrum of both conventional and alternative healing resources for those impacted by these conditions.

Our support extends beyond the individuals directly affected by HIV/AIDS, viral Hepatitis, and SUDs; we also provide valuable resources and guidance to their partners, family members, and advocates. Explore with us the journey toward holistic well-being and discover a community committed to health equity and HIV stigma reduction.

Confronting Disparities and Stigma
in the Black Heterosexual Community

Paths to Wellness

Poverty, lack of access to health care, stigma, and systemic racism are all factors that contribute to the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on the Black community. In addition to HIV/AIDS, the Black heterosexual community is also disproportionately affected by other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia.

HIV/AIDS is preventable through the use of condoms, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and antiretroviral therapy (ART) for those who are living with HIV. It is important for individuals to get regularly tested for HIV, as early detection and treatment can lead to better health outcomes and prevent further transmission.

HIV stigma and discrimination remain significant obstacles to effective HIV prevention, treatment, and care, impacting the overall well-being of those affected. Such discrimination manifests in various harmful ways, from social ostracism and loss of housing or employment opportunities to verbal harassment, physical harm, and restricted access to vital healthcare services.

Notably, this stigma can disproportionately harm diverse groups, including people of color, heterosexual and LGBTQ+ communities, transgender individuals, and those with substance use histories. These barriers can deter many from pursuing HIV testing, accessing necessary medical treatment, or seeking the care they need.

Misconceptions and unfounded fears often fuel HIV-related stigma and discrimination, underpinned by broader societal issues like racism, sexism, and homophobia. Tackling these challenges demands a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes public education, fosters inclusive community involvement, and strengthens legal frameworks to protect rights.

Our commitment is to dismantle barriers to HIV prevention and healthcare. We advocate for a world where everyone, irrespective of background or status, can access life-saving HIV services without fear of stigma or discrimination. Together, let's shift towards a more informed, empathetic society that supports HIV awareness, combats misinformation, and upholds equality.

Join our mission to forge a future free from HIV stigma and discrimination, where every individual has the opportunity for health, respect, and dignity.

2019 statistics according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

There are a number of resources available for use by men and women living with HIV/AIDS, viral Hepatitis, and addictions or Substance Use Disorders (SUD). It is important that we help our partners, family members, and advocates to reach the goal of improved physical, mental, sexual, and emotional health. These resources include a holistic , status neutral approach to finding and using materials, support, aid, or other assets that can be readily drawn upon when needed by a person or group.

Paths to Wellness

Linkage to Care

HIV/AIDS Resources

Metro Atlanta/Georgia Resources for HIV.  

A resource guide for people living with and affected by HIV in Georgia

_________

The Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition (BLACC)

An affinity group of the AIDS
Healthcare Foundation

_________

Georgia Department of Public Health (GPACC)

The Georgia Department of Public Health is responsible for improving the health status of Georgians diagnosed with HIV

_________

The Heather Ivy Society

Provides an elegant and nurturing ambiance for HIV-impacted women

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ANIZ, Inc. 

Promotes emotional and physical wellness by providing mental health, substance use counseling, support services, and
sexual health education.

_________

Frontline Legal Services

A nonprofit corporation providing case management, health education, social, legal, and risk reduction services for people
living with HIV/ AIDS.

_________

Making A Way Housing

Providing emergency, transitional, and permanent supportive housing and case management to Atlanta single homeless adults, who face complex challenges associated with: chronic homelessness, substance abuse, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS 

_________

Open Hand Atlanta

Seeks to eliminate disability and untimely death due to nutrition-sensitive chronic disease

_________

Empowerment Resource Center

A nonprofit 501©3 community-based organization located in Atlanta, Georgia specializing in PrEP, PEP, STI screening, STI treatments, vaccinations, family planning, behavioral health services and more 

_________

> HIV Deciding Moments

Greater Than HIV works with health departments and community partners to reach those most affected with the latest on testing,
prevention and treatment.

_________

Gay Men’s Health Crisis

The mission of Gay Men’s Health Crisis is to reduce the spread of HIV disease, help people with HIV maintain and improve their health and independence, and keep the prevention, treatment and cure of HIV an urgent national and local priority.

_________  

Housing Works

Our mission is to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy and the provision of lifesaving services

_________ 

Lifelong AIDS Alliance

Committed to preventing the spread of HIV. Providing practical support services and advocating for those whose lives are affected
by HIV and AIDS.

_________ 

National Native American AIDS Prevention Center

Their mission is to stop the spread of HIV and related diseases among American Indians, Alaskan Natives, Native Hawaiians, and to improve the quality of life for those infected
and affected by HIV/AIDS.

 _________

NMAC

NMAC leads with race to urgently fight for health equity and racial justice to end the
HIV epidemic in America.

 _________

POZ

POZ is an award-winning print and online brand for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.
A trusted sources of information about HIV/AIDS

Hepatitis Resources

American Liver Foundation

National nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of hepatitis and other liver diseases through
research, education and advocacy

 _________

HEP

An award-winning print and online brand for people living with and affected by viral hepatitis

 _________

Hepatitis B Foundation 

Nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure and improving the quality of life of those affected by hepatitis B worldwide through research, education, and patient advocacy

 _________ 

Hepatitis C Association

On a mission is to educate the public and provide emotional support to patients
living with hepatitis C

 _________ 

Help‑4‑Hep

A non-profit, peer-to-peer helpline where counselors work with patients to meet the challenges of hepatitis C head-on

  _________

Hepatitis C CareLine

A Patient Advocate Foundation. Hepatitis C CareLine is a patient/provider hotline designed to provide assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with Hepatitis C and are seeking education and access to care.

Recovery Resources

The Serenity Club Inc.

a non-profit organization that provides meeting space for various community
development programs.

 _________

Black Faces Black Voices (BFBV)

On a mission is to amplify Black humanity, recovery, and well-being with
collective lived experience

 _________

Everything AA

The most comprehensive Alcoholics Anonymous App.

(available for ios and Android)

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