AOC began in 1986 in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic among gay males as an all-volunteer organization providing end-of-life care to those dying from the disease. In just two years, the demand for services from AOC resulted in the hiring of its first two paid staff members and support quickly grew. Today, AOC has more than 30 staff members dedicated to providing 10 services aimed at preventing the spread of HIV, bringing those newly diagnosed into treatment, and improving the lives of those infected or affected by HIV.
Each year, AOC provides support services to more than 1,600 individuals and their families across all races, ethnicities, genders, ages, and sexual identities. AOC is currently the only nonprofit organization that offers a continuum of support services to the HIV/AIDS community in Tarrant County and seven surrounding rural counties.
Our Mission: To serve people living with or at risk for HIV with dignity and respect.
Our Vision: HIV stops with US.
Community Empowerment Project
Focused on families and individuals living with HIV, the Community Empowerment Project at AIDS Outreach Center (AOC) aims to (1) reduce food insecurity that currently affects many of our neighbors during these inflationary times and (2) decrease the isolation impacting the lives of our elders, many of whom are also long-term survivors of the virus. Among its HIV-focused services, AOC currently operates a Nutrition Center and the Seasoned Survivors program.
The Nutrition Center serves nearly 800 people living with HIV and their families annually. From providing a food pantry filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, canned goods, meats, and staples to promoting healthy eating through nutrition counseling with a Registered Dietician, the Nutrition Center assists clients with staying healthy longer.
In its “club house,” Seasoned Survivors offers complimentary social support services and culturally sensitive activities to meet the growing needs of AOC's older adult clients living with HIV. To address the discrimination, stigma, ageism, and homophobia that often impacts many members of this elder community, our experienced staff take a holistic approach at living conditions and environmental factors to gain a better understanding of the obstacles and barriers these clients face and present solutions to help them live healthy, active, and purposeful lives in a gentle and welcoming environment. The program saw more than 150 seniors last year.
"AIDS Outreach Center stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement against the racially motivated killing of George Floyd, Botham Jean and Atatiana Jefferson by law enforcement. Further, we stand against the increasing number of attacks and killing of black people of trans experience, including the brutal attack of Iyanna Dior. In response to the international Black Lives Matter protests that have shed light on the racial inequality that exists for Black Americans, we pledge to look within our organization, its leadership and staff to remove systemic racism and discrimination in all its forms. "
Organization name
AIDS OUTREACH CENTER INC.
Causes
Social Services, LGBTQIA
Operating Budget
$3,000,000 - $9,999,999
Counties Served
Tarrant, Erath, Johnson, Parker, Somervell, Wise, Palo Pinto
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American
BIPOC Leadership
Executive Director/CEO
Address
400 N BEACH ST Suite 100