SUMMARY

This multifaceted community-based intervention targets Latino youth, ages 14 to 20, at elevated risk for HIV/AIDS. One goal of the program is to increase awareness of the disease by saturating target neighborhoods with public service announcements broadcasting risk reduction messages. In addition, the program aims to reduce infection by encouraging sexually active teens to use condoms. Project messages are reinforced through ongoing activities conducted by specially trained peer leaders, including workshops in schools, community organizations, and health centers, group discussions in teens' homes, presentations at large community centers, and door-to-door canvassing. At all activities, condoms are available, along with pamphlets explaining their correct use. In a field study of the intervention in Boston, MA, researchers compared the sexual behavior of teens in the target community and a similar, control community. At the 18-month follow-up assessment, the intervention appeared to reduce the incidence of multiple sexual partners among females and delay the onset of sexual activity among males.

SUITABLE FOR USE IN

Although the program was originally designed for a Latino community, program materials can be adapted for different populations. A wide range of community-based organizations and schools can be involved.

ORIGINAL INTERVENTION SAMPLE

Age, Gender
The 586 youths participating in the study ranged in age from 14 to 20 years.

Race/Ethnicity
100% Latino, nearly all Puerto Rican.

PROGRAM LENGTH

There is no requisite length for the program; the field study was implemented over an 18-month period.

STAFFING REQUIREMENTS/TRAINING

Program activities are led by peer leaders who take part in an extensive training program. Staff who lead this training should be knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS, Latino culture and group process skills. Additionally, staff and peer leaders should be able to communicate both in English and Spanish.