Since 1995, Project ARK has been dedicated to providing support for those infected and affected by HIV, and those at-risk of acquiring HIV.
OUR STORY
THE NEED
In 1995, we saw growing numbers of children, youth, and women being impacted by HIV/AIDS in St. Louis, and no voice or community to support their needs. The world of HIV/AIDS services were primarily for men — until Project ARK.
THE FUNDING
Project ARK was formed through a Ryan White Grant (Part D) in 1995. Project ARK continues to be the only organization in the St. Louis area specifically dedicated to HIV-positive children, youth, women, and their families.
OUR SUCCESS
Project ARK was created to build a comprehensive care and support system for women, youth, and children.
We provides services and care through a network of HIV/AIDS specialty care providers at the Washington University School of Medicine, SLUCare, regional HIV services organizations, and state and local health departments.
Since 1995 Project ARK has grown and now provides a range of services including:
- HIV/AIDS Medical Care
- Medical Case Management
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Assessment and Counseling
- Patient Retention Services
- Support Groups
- Early Identification and Linkage to Care
- Prevention Programming
- Community Outreach Services
- HIV/AIDS Education
- HIV/AIDS/STD Counseling
Testing Services
SHE MADE ME FEEL LIKE I WOULD BE OK.
“When I was first diagnosed nobody in the doctor’s office could convince me I would be OK. My whole world seemed to change. I stopped eating with silverware and dishes in fear of infecting my family. I felt I no longer deserved to be hugged or loved. I stopped working and began to have a difficult time making ends meet at home. My case manager referred me to the Peer Support Program where I met my Treatment Adherence Counselor. Meeting with her changed everything. She told me her story and how she lives with HIV. She made me feel like I would be OK. Since working with her, I started to come to my clinic appointments. I even started coming to the support group. She changed my life.”
NW