With three consecutive grants from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) since 2001, The CFA has developed and expanded Project AIR (AIDS Information Roadshow), an innovative outreach program; this program promotes health literacy and empowers clients to take an active role in caring for themselves.

Individuals learn to locate and assess reliable HIV/AIDS information sources in local libraries, on the Internet and through the NLM's MedlinePlus. Since its inception, Project AIR has grown from a single-level didactic slide presentation to a tiered, real-time, hands-on, interactive program. Participants use computers and Internet connections and learn at one of three expertise levels. This program is designed for both English- and Spanish-speaking patients, as well as caregivers and community health workers.

Project AIR targets individuals most vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and in need of accurate, accessible health and treatment information. With continued funding in 2007, a two-phase program will teach basic methods of finding HIV/AIDS information in local libraries and on the Internet. Phase I aims to improve the quality of health care and to combat health disparities. The second phase builds on the successes of the first with ten screened individuals given specialized, advanced training as Internet users and peer educators. Phase II equips participants with new competencies, preparing them to go out into their immediate communities and assist or train others affected by HIV/AIDS. Phase II increases access to reliable HIV/AIDS information within affected communities.

Advanced peer educators will not only become trusted HIV information resources themselves, they will multiply their skills by training others. This train-the-trainer component will exponentially extend Project AIR's reach, improving lives, health, and communities throughout Houston and Harris County.

For more information, please call Bernie Vazquez at 713.527.8219, or send her email.

Funded in part by NLM Contract No. HHSN27600700273P