Discussion of how empowering communities in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) has an important role in increasing social connectedness and supporting the health and wellbeing of people with lived experiences. Speaker bios
Overview
Michael Kharfen, Director, HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau's Division of Policy and Data
Kharfen moderated the session and highlighted RWHAP’s commitment to integrated, coordinated community engagement efforts to reduce stigma and address health inequities and social disparities. The session highlighted how these efforts are advancing the goals of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy.
From Loneliness to Connection
Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Brigham Young University
Dr. Holt-Lunstad explored “From Loneliness to Connection” and the positive impacts of social engagement on quality of life. She explained how being socially connected is critical for improved health outcomes and highlighted strategies that individuals, providers, and communities at large can leverage to increase connectivity.
Panel: Presenters with Lived Experiences
Kahlib Barton, Chief Program Officer of True Colors United, shared perspectives on the importance of community engagement and strategies for engaging people with lived experience who are unstably housed or experiencing homelessness. Kahlib shared how to overcome stigma related to accessing care, and how it is important to educate the public health community on how to communicate.
Kayla Quimbley, Youth Advocate, shared her perspective on the impact of HIV stigma and the importance of community engagement and strategies for people with lived experience, including young people.
Keiva Lei Cadena, Co-executive director of Positive Women’s Network – USA, shared an overview on the importance of community engagement within the transgender community and harm reduction strategies for engaging people with lived experience.
Omar Jose Perez, Health and Public Policy Consultant and Centro Ararat Delegate from Puerto Rico, provided his perspective on the importance of community engagement with the Hispanic/Latino community and addressing stigma to engage people with lived experience who are aging.