POSITIVE WELLNESS ALLIANCE TO LAUNCH NEW PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM, R.O.A.R.
Positive Wellness Alliance
704 Brookstown Ave
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: Isaiah Fletcher
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POSITIVE WELLNESS ALLIANCE TO LAUNCH NEW PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM, R.O.A.R.
Winston-Salem, NC (September 8, 2022) - With health and wellness being on the forefront of society, Positive Wellness Alliance is taking a new approach to enhancing the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS in Forsyth and Davidson counties. The new initiative, R.O.A.R., which stands for Reimagining Ourselves while Achieving Resilience, will kickoff and hold its first meeting on September 14, 2022 at 12:00 PM at Positive Wellness Alliance’s Lexington office (400 East Center St, Lexington, NC 27292). R.O.A.R. will serve as Positive Wellness Alliance’s brand new peer support group for clients and others living with HIV/AIDS.
Studies have shown that peer support groups like R.O.A.R. are crucial, especially for those living with chronic health issues. Support groups help to decrease morbidity and mortality rates, increase life expectancies, knowledge of diseases, improves self efficacy, improves self-reported health status and self-care skills. It also helps to increase medication adherence, and reduces the use of emergency services.
“This initiative is geared towards creating a space for persons living in our service areas who are living with or impacted by HIV and AIDS,” said Sophia Russell, Executive Director. “Even if people are interested in preventative services or just curious to learn more, we welcome them. One of the major ways to end the stigma around HIV and AIDS, as well as working to decrease transmissions of HIV, is to have those honest, open discussions and create a dialogue with community members. Overall, this program will create a stronger community.”
The program will be facilitated by Jauraz Crosby. Crosby is an alumnus of Livingstone College, with a degree in social work. Crosby has an extensive background working with at-risk populations in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. While working with LGBTQ+ youth for the organization, Colours, in Philadelphia, he provided different educational tools and resources as well as job and life skills for individuals. He is credited for opening the drop-in center for at-risk youth at the organization. He’s also served on the University of Pennsylvania community advisory board for HIV vaccine trials for 3 years.
“I’m very excited to bring the R.O.A.R. project to Positive Wellness Alliance,” said Crosby. “This project will also focus on the mental health crisis in America today. Through workshops, real life scenarios, testimonials, and group setting activities, R.O.A.R. will be beneficial to individuals who suffer from mental illness, especially those already dealing with a chronic illness. With my wisdom, knowledge, and innovative approach, I plan to touch and heal one person at a time.”
Positive Wellness Alliance is a 501c(3) organization that assists people living with HIV/AIDS in eight counties in North Carolina. The organization provides case management, financial assistance, and housing assistance services. The organization also has a community food pantry, which is open to the public. For more information about Positive Wellness Alliance, visit www.postivewellnessalliance.org.
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