HIV Prevention and Services

Street Smart Plus

In 2007, the AIDS Institute awarded BCPC a grant to pilot and implement a new HIV prevention program for youth, Street Smart Plus (SS+), in collaboration with the National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI). SS+ activities aim to increase positive beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions toward HIV prevention through negotiating safer sex by role-playing; mobilizing support for beliefs and attitudes that reinforce safer sex; and engaging in a network which supports positive behaviors. SS+ will build risk reduction skills (including condom use), and increase the level of HIV prevention knowledge among 150-180 YMCSM annually; increase self-esteem and positive self image among at least 75% of participants annually; provide information about STDs and the importance of STD screening and prevention as an HIV prevention strategy, with at least 50% of youth receiving an STD screening; link 60% of the YMCSM to HIV counseling and testing during the course of the year.