According to the CDC, recent statistics indicate that 45% of Latinos have never been tested for HIV and 40% have never talked with a doctor about the disease. Because of language and other cultural barriers, intervention efforts to decrease the stigma, isolation and prejudice that perpetuate the spread of the virus are challenging. Poverty, overcrowded housing, unemployment, and a lack of education create further barriers. Plus fear of rejection and condemnation are factors that prevent many people with HIV from either being tested, or getting the services and information needed to stem further spread of the virus.
Based in Aurora, Centro Esperanza/Hope Center initially opened in July, 2002. It is a unique program in that rather than being a resource for services, it is a resource for hope. Clients dialogue about their hopes and dreams, and use the resources of Centro Esperanza to make them a reality. The center includes a computer lab, ESL training, and a peer-support network. Clients are encouraged to give voice to their own personal HIV story. This project is empowering because trust and autonomy are the focal points as we learn and listen to the challenges that are unique to each individual.
According to the CDC, recent statistics indicate that 45% of Latinos have never been tested for HIV and 40% have never talked with a doctor about the disease. Because of language and other cultural barriers, intervention efforts to decrease the stigma, isolation and prejudice that perpetuate the spread of the virus are challenging. Poverty, overcrowded housing, unemployment, and a lack of education create further barriers. Plus fear of rejection and condemnation are factors that prevent many people with HIV from either being tested, or getting the services and information needed to stem further spread of the virus.