This will be a very open and candid collaborative conversation of three very distinct organizations with similar but unique responses to the HIIV epidemic as it affects specifically Black America with emphasis on the South. The panelist will delve into specific problems in the Black community and discuss in detail how they have addressed these issues. By offering best practices and unique models, participants will walk away with not a toolbox but a tool trunk of new and innovative ideas and programs to implement in their communities. The primary objective will be to nurture a new conversation about the response to the epidemic in the Black community. Each presenter will discuss barriers and successes as it relates to the black population. Although specific to the South, the models and solutions discussed can be applicable to other regions where Black folks and people of color are prevalent. Participants will learn in detail about the "DIRT" Advocacy movement. The objectives and measurable outcomes will be to give participants the language and specific tools to address getting the Black Church to take a more meaningful stance in the fight against HIV, how to implement programs in rural areas that are inclusive of Black women, intentionally.

This will be a very open and candid collaborative conversation of three very distinct organizations with similar but unique responses to the HIIV epidemic as it affects specifically Black America with emphasis on the South. The panelist will delve into specific problems in the Black community and discuss in detail how they have addressed these issues. By offering best practices and unique models, participants will walk away with not a toolbox but a tool trunk of new and innovative ideas and programs to implement in their communities. The primary objective will be to nurture a new conversation about the response to the epidemic in the Black community. Each presenter will discuss barriers and successes as it relates to the black population. Although specific to the South, the models and solutions discussed can be applicable to other regions where Black folks and people of color are prevalent. Participants will learn in detail about the "DIRT" Advocacy movement. The objectives and measurable outcomes will be to give participants the language and specific tools to address getting the Black Church to take a more meaningful stance in the fight against HIV, how to implement programs in rural areas that are inclusive of Black women, intentionally.