Birmingham AIDS Outreach
The Birmingham AIDS Outreach was founded in May 1985 to provide emotional and financial support and education to people affected by AIDS and the HIV virus. The organization has expanded to provide prevention education programs as well as client services to over 700 patients. Services include food distribution, financial assistance, transportation assistance, holiday gift boxes, counseling, GED assistance, and other volunteer programs.
The Birmingham AIDS Outreach sponsors the "Magic City AIDS Walk", "Valentine Dine" and "Arty Party", annual fundraising events. They also hold a monthly "BAO Bingo" game at their offices.
The current executive director is Karen Musgrove and its development director is Kyle Pugh. The Board is chaired by Chris Fisher.
In 2014 BAO began operated the Magic City Acceptance Center which brings together a number of free programs, including a legal clinic, counseling, HIV/STI/STD testing and health and wellness workshops.
In 2019 BAO began applying to operate a charter school under the name Magic City Acceptance Academy, which would provide a typical high school curriculum in an environment protected from bullying.
In 2020 the organization moved from the Swann & Co. Building at 205 32nd Street South into the Dewberry Building at 3201 4th Avenue South, which it shares with UAB's 1917 Clinic.
Programs
- GED Classes - available to HIV+ patients and their families
- Uncle Ed's Hope Garden - planned community garden
- Adrian R. Daniels Holiday Gift Boxes - care packages for low income HIV/AIDS sufferers
- Magic City Acceptance Center
- Magic City Wellness Center, primary care, wellness and support groups
References
- Brock, Glenny. (May 11, 2006) "Arty Party sure sustainer." Birmingham Weekly
- Dunigan, Jonece Starr (April 25, 2019) "Group wants to open LGBTQ-focused charter school in Birmingham The Birmingham News
External link
- Birmingham AIDS outreach website