Mission

MISSION STATEMENT Championing programs that empower HIV-positive youth to succeed individually and flourish as leaders who advocate the rights of people living with HIV in their communities. ​VISION STATEMENT We envision an empowered youth who live sustainable lifestyles, managing their health, finance, and social responsibilities well, and are equipped with the educational and leadership capacity to spearhead HIV positive communities and promote healthy HIV perspectives to society as a whole.      

Category

Disability

Additional Information

“You are the oldest so that means you need to set an example to your younger siblings as well as those around you”. My parents’ words echoed in my mind as I remembered my childhood…   …even when I was diagnosed with AIDS on my 19th birthday on March 28,2010 and found out that I had cancer on December of that year, I did not forget those words. I realized I had to be brave not just for myself, but also for my younger siblings and for other young hearts dealing with similar challenges in their fragile years. I was not alone. Neither were they. We had each other – for support, inspiration, and friendship.  My name is Lamar and I am the founder of H.Y.P.E. to Empower, Inc.   (HIV+ Youth that Pledge to Empower Themselves and Others), an organization created out of the desire to help others see their HIV diagnosis in the lens of hope, love, and acceptance. H.Y.P.E.  exists to transform the lives of youth, young adults, families, and communities living with HIV. Our youngest member enrolled in the program is 5 years old. We aim to cater to everyone in the community who needs attention and assistance.  Through our comprehensive and relevant services and programs at HYPE, we provide the link to HIV awareness, sufficient treatment, and support. In 2013, the estimated number of new HIV diagnoses is 1,410 people in Atlanta, Georgia. That same year, approximately 30.7% of HIV diagnoses developed into AIDS within 12 months; an alarming rate that could have been prevented with sufficient awareness, proper education and much-needed health care. At HYPE, we refuse to turn a blind eye and see statistics as just numbers. We need to help our brothers and sisters living with HIV today. In this advocacy, our efforts may be great, but they are not enough. We are a young organization and our immediate goal kick start our initiatives for HIV testing in communities, professional training/building, and our outreach programs. Our programs at HYPE, which involve community service, HIV education, academic education, and self and social empowerment, should materialize today in order to ensure sustainability and long-term benefits. With your help we can make that possible.