Jackson Free Press

Contact: Valencia Robinson
601.944.1403, office
601.672.6564, cell

With six people dying every minute from HIV, advocacy communities all over the United States are stepping up and doing their part to educate the public about the need for responsible habits. In Mississippi, groups like AIDS action in MS (aka AAIM) are doing their part to not only spread the word but provide services to those who are infected and affected by HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

"AIDS Action in MS is dedicated to organizing the community throughout the entire state about the rights of all people," says Valencia Robinson, the Field Director for the organization. Robinson is not new to the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS. She worked with Building Bridges Inc. prior to taking the lead of AAIM. "People need to understand that HIV affects everyone, whether they are positive or not. What AAIM provides is an extended family for those not only living with the virus but those who are having to deal with it in other ways as well.

AAIM's next event to raise awareness about their mission and to introduce themselves to the community will be Saturday, August 26, 2006 at Battlefield Park from 11-6p.m.. The event is called ARTS 4 AIDS and will combine a community-style environment with guest speakers and the arts. This caught the attention of Mississippi artist/author/poet C. A. Webb, who is also the President of the Rankin County Arts Alliance.

"I have worked with Valencia Robinson over the years and have been impressed with the passion she brings to each new journey in her life," remarks Webb. "When she told me about what she was doing, I knew I had to be a part of it."

The day will include FREE FOOD for attendees as well as live entertainment, poetry and guest speakers. AAIM is selling vendor tables for $10 for artists who want to sell their wares during the events. The artist can then keep 100% of their profits or make a donation to the organization. Donations to the organization are also welcomed by the public.

"What AAIM is trying to do is give something back to the community," Webb says. "Mississippi is filled with artists. If we can do our part to help spread the word, then it's a win-win for all of us."

AAIM will also have their signature CAMPAIGNTOENDAIDS shirts on sale for the promotional price of only $10.00. Robinson explains: "People say we can't end AIDS, but that's just not true. Those with HIV don't have to contract AIDS. Knowledge is power, and we are strengthening people day by day by spreading the word.

Details about AIDS Action in MS can be found by visiting their website: http://www.campaigntoendaids.org/ms