The crisis level statistics showing that the African American population made up 61% of Houston’s newly reported HIV infections in 1999, made it apparent that something had to be done. With an army of volunteers, the Mayor’s State of Emergency Task Force was implemented to win back the community. In the hope of seeing a drastic decrease in newly reported HIV infections, the SOETF seeks to raise the community’s consciousness through HIV/AIDS education and prevention

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED IN THE TASK FORCE?
It’s simple!! Getting involved is easy!! Perspective volunteers can simply attend the Task Force meetings held twice a month at the City of Houston, Health and Human Services Department. Volunteers have the opportunity to be involved in any of the three committees that make up the task force.

ADVOCACY: Directly responsible for increasing the awareness of those in power. This committee’s task is to raise concerns and issues dealing with HIV to those individuals and programs that possess decision-making power. The committee takes on an additional role through working with city council members, state and federal elected officials, philanthropists, and other collaborative bodies in order to increase the funding for HIV services.

MEDIA: This committee’s main focus is on getting the word out to the City of Houston. They are responsible for the promotion of HIV related information, the impact it has on the African American community and other HIV related concerns, as well as, promoting the activities and events of the Task Force.

ACTION: A community-oriented committee. They are responsible for conducting outreach activities, such as testing, counseling, and distributing information within the community and in conjunction with other community based events.

African-American State of Emergency Task Force Participating Organizations:

Donald R. Watkins Memorial Foundation
WAM Foundation Inc.
Saving Lives Through Alternative Options (SLAO)
A Caring Safe Place
Chinwe Haven
The Montrose Clinic
Bread of Life, Inc.
Positive Efforts, Inc.
Families Under Urban & Social Attack (FUUSA)
By His Love Ministries
NAACP
St. Hope Foundation
Harris County Hospital District
City of Houston Health & Human Services (Including Mobile Unit)
Montrose Counseling Center
Project Wave Inc.
YWCA
The Resource Center
Career and Recovery, Inc.
AIDS Foundation Houston
The Council on Alcohol and Drugs-Houston
The Warren Corporation, Inc.