Voices/Voces

I had a couple of "voices" tell me I should update my blog more often.  I don't think I have much to blog about, but the "voices" informed me there is so much going on at work that it would be a good time to keep you updated on all the cool trainings I get to go to.

I think you all know I am the program coordinator for a non-profit, and we have been recently awarded a grant from the State Health Department to do HIV outreach and testing.  So I get to learn and teach the transmission of HIV and offer a  rapid HIV test, as well as some STD education.

This week I am at a DEBI Training for "Voices/Voces" where we do single session intervention to get people's opinion on why they are not using condoms for protection.  We have a video for people to watch, a discussion, a condom education and then we just talk to the clients on their negotiating skills, and answer questions.

This is a 2 day training and I will complete it tomorrow.  So far we have seen one of the four videos.  They are very appropriate for the culture and really do facilitate conversations with the clients.  We have discussed the different types of condoms that are available. 

I'm glad we are doing this training because in my community (latino community) condoms are such a taboo.  No one tells you about them, and you know they are out there but it is not something that people talk about.  If you find them it is usually a sign of infidelity within a married couple.  Or if  you find them in your kids jean pocket (the wrapper that is) they have or will get a girl pregnant.  

I do want to say we do not encourage/support any sexual behavior a person is participating in, we are just trying to protect people from any STD and HIV infections they might put themselves at-risk for.  People are at risk and it is happening all over, even here in the "bubble."

I know it is also a topic that people in the church avoid speaking about, and I am not going to get into that.  Everyone has their own view and I respect that. 

If anyone needs any condoms, let me know....I am the condom lady after all