"I set a goal to become part of the planning process-to become a voting member of the Partnership," says Eddie. "I submitted my application and it was accepted."
Not only does Eddie bring his own experience as a PLWH to the table, he also has direct experience about the challenges faced by others-both infected and at risk. Eddie is an HIV program facilitator with Pridelines Youth Services. Pridelines is dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering South Florida's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in a safe and diverse environment. In his part-time role, he leads four support groups per week, coordinates bi-monthly lectures, and also plans social events. His work is focused both on young, at-risk individuals and PLWH. He has also been certified to provide HIV counseling and testing by the Florida Department of Health. Prior to working for Pridelines, Eddie was a volunteer peer counselor-he has lots of hands-on experience about what it takes to access and stay in care.
In his new role as a member of the Partnership, Eddie is looking forward to bringing his own experience and the experience of the people he works with to the table.
"I want to be involved in making sure that everyone receives high-quality care," says Eddie. "We need to make sure that they are taken care of and are listened to."
While the training moved Eddie to get involved on a larger level, it also made him look at ways he could support his own organization.
"Pridelines is looking to expand our activities," says Eddie. "I can provide suggestions related to quality improvement, which is important to the expansion process."
Eddie also acknowledges his important role in giving others a voice and being a role model.
"The more people that get involved, the more change will be accomplished."
