RAIN empowers people living with HIV and those at risk to be healthy and stigma free.

RAIN was founded in the early 90's when the world was terrified by this new virus that was causing the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. Moved by compassion to offer companionship and the belief that no one should die alone, RAIN organized CareTeams to support people living with HIV, what was then called AIDS, who did not have a local support system. In recent years, RAIN has lost only one or two clients each year to death. Current medications make it such that people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives no different than anyone else. But recently, we were called back to our roots.

Even though CareTeams dismantled years ago, a volunteer from one team and RAIN staff have continued to have regular contact with their “CarePartner”. This relationship has lasted for decades. Last fall, the client’s health began to decline causing hospitalization. No family or friends come. The volunteer visited the hospital each week and RAIN staff were in regular contact.  The volunteer took home clothes to wash and return so that the person has something personal and comfortable to wear; and retrieved items from the person’s home when wanted or needed.

On Monday, February 17, 2025, hospital staff indicated that death was eminent. The doctor calls the volunteer. The volunteer comes. RAIN’s case manager comes and sits bedside until the client passes. That day was a holiday. The staff member came anyway, out of love and a deep-seated belief that all people are important. All people are valued, and no one should die alone.

This incident has touched me deeply. This story reveals the heart and soul of RAIN and the extraordinary volunteers and staff who will put their personal needs aside to offer care and compassion to others. Even when it may be inconvenient. Even when it’s their day off.