How We Work (Accomplishments and Capacity for Success)

Three years ago, IV-CHARIS set ten strategic goals, all of which was exceeded. Most impressive are the following: 8,263 clients know their HIV status, 42 individuals infected with HIV were referred to an appropriate medical programs and given strategic counseling about living with HIV, and the 100% increase in trained volunteers.

In addition to having a track record of setting ambitious goals and exceeding them, IV-CHARIS has partnered with a number of organizations to achieve aligned goals and ensure that our clients receive optimum assistance. Specifically, last year IV-CHARIS collaborated with Correctional Medical Services, Talbert House, Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless, Central Health Board of Hamilton County, City of Cincinnati Board of Health, and the University of Cincinnati Infectious Disease Center. Talbert House states that “the majority of our clients would not have been tested and/or would not have known their HIV status if IV -CHARIS staff had not provided these services free of charge”. The Central Community Health Board of Hamilton County continues by stating that our program is “well respected in the Greater Cincinnati…and garners much positive support from organizations providing HIV/AIDS services. Dr. Grubbs of the Infectious Disease Center points out that IV-CHARIS “has been able to test people that might not otherwise be tested by providing on-site testing at various places in the community. This work has, therefore, decreased the high-risk behaviors that transmit infection”. Other community based organizations share these sentiments in their respective letters of support and testimonies. Collectively, these letters depict our commitment to improving lives with compassionate hearts and our championship collaborative efforts to achieve our goals.

In the past five years, IV-CHARIS has tested 8,263 individuals with 42 diagnosed with HIV (69% black and 31% white). According to the Ohio Department of Health Surveillance Department, 46 people in Hamilton County were diagnosed with HIV in 2003 (total = 5,553). Blacks and whites accounted for 48% and 45%; respectively, which is much lower than the proportions from our services. This strongly suggests that IV-CHARIS is effective in reaching those who are at very high risk of transmitting HIV/AIDS. The trust and effectiveness of our talented staff is recognized by the participants’ remarks: 93% of the individuals surveyed would give their names, if asked (no names are asked or recorded due to confidentiality).