HIV Does Not Discriminate
HIV Does Not Discriminate
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At Healing Tree Community Foundation, we tackle the urgent challenges facing our youth, including violence prevention, homelessness, and HIV/AIDS. Our STAND DOWN program empowers young people with essential skills to safely navigate interactions with authority figures, fostering a supportive community.
As of 2024, HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge. We are committed to robust HIV education and prevention initiatives—emphasizing that HIV has no color. Our programs address transmission, prevention, and destigmatization through engaging workshops and interactive sessions tailored to diverse communities. We also prioritize ending youth homelessness by putting affordable housing first, alongside violence reduction and trust-building among police, youth, and the community.
We meet youth where they are—schools, community centers, or online—providing age-appropriate curricula that promote resilience and empathy. By collaborating with healthcare providers, we ensure access to vital resources and create a supportive environment for those affected by HIV.
Together, we can break the cycle of transmission, reduce stigma, and build informed, compassionate communities. Join us in creating a healthier future for everyone.
HIV took my last Breathe
I grew up in Kentucky under the care of my grandmother alongside my sister. At the tender age of 14, I became a mother, and by 16, I had two sons. However, my life took a drastic turn when I had a blood transfusion which led to the discovery of a life-altering diagnosis: HIV. Struggling with the weight of this secret, I chose to keep my diagnosis hidden from my family and loved ones. Amidst my personal turmoil, I found love with a young man. However, the fear of revealing my HIV status to him loomed over me, casting a shadow on our relationship. Tragically, when my partner learned the truth, the relationship turned dark, culminating in a harrowing and violent event that left me fighting for my life. Unfortunately, I didn’t make It I took my last breathe March -2003 "BabySIs"...
The Spark the Change Conference puts affordable housing first—prioritizing solutions for homeless youth ages 18–25—while also addressing violence and community–police relations. Centered on healing and unity, the event features our Stand Down Program, which empowers youth to engage safely with authority and exercise their rights.
State Representative LaShawn K. Ford joins Healing Tree Community Foundation and Negus Rudison-Imhotep, Ph.D. in sparking real change: prioritizing affordable housing for homeless youth ages 18–25 and mitigate the violence by rebuilding trust among police, youth, and community in the summer of 2026. Grounded in healing and unity, the Stand Down Program helps youth navigate encounters safely and assert their rights.
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Ignite change with us. We equip youth with honest, stigma-free HIV education -so they stay informed, safe and hopeful.
We secure pathways to affordable housing stability is the foundation every child deserves. Through our Stand Down program, we teach youth to Respect, Reflect , and Respond to authority, building trust leadership, and resilience.
Please donate via Zelle. You gift fuels transformation in our communities
Business C. 773-540-7135 healingtreecf@aol.com
Celebration of life was a joyful, stigma-free event centered on HIV education and whole person wellness.
Our girls took part in interactive workshops on self-care and grooming, where they learned practical skills to protect their health, and received confidential HIV testing with compassionate guidance from trained educators.
Together, we created a safe space for questions, empowerment, and community-where knowledge builds confidence and wellness becomes a way of life
Business C. 773-540-7135 healingtreecf@aol.com
Our Staff & Volunteers
A great team thrives on strong leadership, effective communication, and productive collaboration. Success comes from individuals who understand and work well together. Board Members:
Richard Griggs, Tax Preparer Shenna Richardson, Ray White, Brida Collins, CPA Laquita Ellis, Chaqual Smith MA, Founder: Jaz Ellison
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