Upcoming HIV/AIDS Awareness Days!

March is almost here, and it's coming in like a lion in a flurry of activity!  There are two HIV/AIDS Awareness days this month, so wear your ribbons and get the word out about testing! 

March 10 is National Women and Girls' HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.  Women of color are disproportionally affected by HIV/AIDS, and complications of AIDS are the leading cause of death for women of color aged 25 to 34.  More information about the day, events scheduled nationally, and posters can be found here.

March 20 is National Native American HIV/AIDS Awareness day. American Indians and Alaska Natives have the third highest rates of AIDS diagnosis in the United States!  Posters, fact sheets, and other information can be found here.

Stay safe, stay warm, and just keep thinking that the days are getting longer and warmer!

Posted by Joy Sinclair on Thursday, February 26th 2009 in National news and Health & wellness

Red Ribbon Ball a Huge Success!

The Board of Directors, staff and clients of Eastern Maine AIDS Network would like to thank everyone who donated to and/or attended the Third Annual Red Ribbon Ball on Saturday, February 7, 2009.

As a result of your generosity, this year EMAN was able to raise almost $12,000, which will allow us to continue to meet the vital needs of people with HIV/AIDS in Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Aroostook counties, as well as actively promote prevention education and harm reduction, and advocate for fair, effective programs and policies.

Despite the difficult economic times, EMAN is thrilled to have achieved a 9% increase in funds from last year's Red Ribbon Ball, as well as a huge increase in attendees (almost double!), which is a testament to the commitment and support of our community.

In an era of decreased funding for AIDS Service Organizations, community support is vital. EMAN plays a critical role in educating citizens on the risks and realities of living with the disease, combating prejudice, testing for HIV, providing prevention services, counseling, and helping people and families living with HIV/AIDS to gain medical care, housing, food, and nutritional support.

EMAN would also like to offer a hearty thank you to Spectacular Event Center for providing the fabulous location for this year's Ball, as well as Brian Catell and the Jump City Jazz Band for their enthusiasm and keeping us dancing all night.

Posted by Suze Howe on Tuesday, February 24th 2009 in EMAN News

Found at the Red Ribbon Ball

A resounding thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Red Ribbon Ball a success.  There was a silver bracelet found at the Spectacular Events Center after the ball.  Please call us at (207) 990-3626 to identify it and we will make sure it gets back to you. Thanks!

Posted by Joy Sinclair on Monday, February 9th 2009