HIV/AIDS Youth Education

AIDS is one of the leading causes of death among Americans aged 25 to 44 according to the CDC. It is widely believed that most people in their twenties who have AIDS actually became infected with HIV in their teenage years.

HIV/AIDS Youth Education Programs
All of the American Red Cross HIV/AIDS programs provide opportunities for reaching youth. The American Red Cross approach involves providing age appropriate HIV/AIDS education from an early age through adolescence and young adulthood.

Act Smart can help young people make smart decisions and develop healthy behaviors to prevent HIV and AIDS and gain a sense of compassion for persons living with HIV or AIDS. The curriculum is divided into three units: for ages 6 to 9, 10 to 13, and 14 to 17.

The Party video package provides HIV prevention education materials for people ages 13 to 15. The Party can help youth enhance their decision making skills related to HIV prevention. Issues raised include peer pressure, alcohol and drug use, sexual activity, and self-respect.