Know Your Community

Support

The most important thing to remember when diagnosed with HIV is to KNOW. that you are not alone.  Support groups, counseling, case managers, online communities and peer support are available.

Volunteers of America Support Group:  A facilitated peer support group is hosted monthly in Rapid City. This is a safe place for HIV positive individuals to support each other and share challenges, solutions, and successes.

The Body:  The Complete HIV/AIDS Resource (http://www.thebody.com/)  The largest source of HIV and AIDS information online where you can read, listen to, or watch the latest HIV/AIDS news, research and resources. 

POZ:  (https://www.poz.com/)Serving the community of people living with and those affected by HIV/AIDS with daily news, treatment updates, personal profiles, investigative features, videos, blogs, forums, personals, and an extensive social online network.

Advocate

Get involved in shaping the future.  Change starts with one voice and is amplified by the sound of many.  Become a member of the communities advocating for change in public awareness, perception, and funding for HIV/AIDS services in our area. 

West River HIV Health Network is a collaborative effort among our community’s healthcare providers and stakeholders to address the healthcare needs of HIV positive individuals, reduce HIV-related stigma, and advocate for individuals living with HIV.

West River Ryan White Part B Advisory Council is an annual meeting that all Ryan White clients are invited to attend and learn about the state of the Ryan White program in South Dakota. Clients are encouraged to provide input to improve statewide Ryan White services. 

HIV Prevention Planning Group is a statewide group of stakeholders and community members that meets quarterly to discuss HIV prevention activities, needs, and recommendations for South Dakota. This group is ultimately responsible for forming the state HIV Prevention Plan and overseeing outcomes.