| In August 2005, DC Appleseed issued a report calling for sweeping reforms in the District government's response to the city's HIV/AIDS epidemic and making specific recommendations for improvement. The report has been embraced by the District government and a broad cross-section of stakeholders as a "blueprint for change." Since the report release, several key recommendations have been implemented, including: an overhaul of the District's system for collecting and analyzing HIV and AIDS epidemiologic data; a citywide HIV testing campaign designed to make HIV testing a routine part of all medical care; and a citywide condom distribution program. DC Appleseed is now working to ensure that additional needed changes are made by playing an ongoing monitoring role, as well as conducting further research and advocacy in several areas, including: HIV prevention among drug users; HIV prevention education in DCPS; condom distribution; HIV/AIDS surveillance; and mental health services related to HIV/AIDS. Pro bono support for our efforts has been provided by Hogan & Hartson LLP and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. |