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RAIN is a compassionate advocate for those we serve and work tirelessly to end HIV in our community. RAIN is an innovative, cutting edge, community leader that seeks to be a beacon of light for those who feel hopeless.
Joyce Brooks, MHA
Grant & Donor Relations Manager
The year 2023 has been momentous for RAIN, particularly regarding HIV/STI testing. Since January, our dedicated outreach team has gone above and beyond, conducting tests for over 600 individuals - an impressive leap from the 368 people we tested in 2022. With this incredible momentum, we are well on our way to more than doubling our testing efforts this year. You might be wondering, "What brought about this remarkable increase?" The answer lies in the expansion of RAIN's services, thanks to the establishment of The Drop and the introduction of our mobile testing unit. These invaluable resources have allowed us to immerse in the local community by creating a safe space and meeting individuals where they are. This service has made getting tested for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and hepatitis C more accessible. Additionally, outreach activities provide an excellent opportunity to educate individuals on safe sex practices and promote normalizing regular HIV/STI testing.
Our heightened testing efforts have allowed us to identify 17 individuals living with HIV in the Charlotte area who were unaware of their status. Knowing one's status is immensely important because awareness is the first step towards empowering individuals to proactively manage their health and live fully.
At RAIN, we believe every person deserves access to the resources needed to thrive. That's why we offer tailored support services, ranging from medical case management and mental health therapy to support groups. By connecting individuals with compassionate medical providers, we can ensure they receive the proper medications and guidance to manage their condition effectively. One of the most critical factors in HIV treatment and prevention is medication adherence. We educate our clients on the importance of sticking to their prescribed medication regimens, leading to undetectable levels of HIV in the body. Achieving undetectable status prevents the progression of HIV disease and its transmission, significantly impacting both individual health and community well-being.
RAIN is grateful for the opportunity to serve the community and make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV. We are committed to continuing our outreach, education, and support initiatives to foster a healthier, more informed, and empowered community for all.
