Archive Index / Man Up Conference Encourages Men To Fight Aids (posted: 03/02/11)

Source: Volusia County Health Department
Contact: Stefany Strong, Public Information Officer

DAYTONA BEACH- An upcoming effort to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS is geared toward educating, mobilizing and encouraging men to eliminate their risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. “Man Up” is a Department of Health men’s initiative focusing on sexually active men who account for the majority of HIV/AIDS cases in Florida. It encourages men to “Man Up” and become involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS and to accept responsibility for the consequences of their sexual actions.

The Volusia/Flagler Minority AIDS Network is hosting the “Man Up” Conference on Saturday, March 26, 2011, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Bethune Cookman University’s L. Gale Lemerand School of Nursing. The nursing building is located at 739 International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach.

One highlight of the conference is HIV/AIDS educator Teresa White of the Alachua County Health Department. White created an award winning AIDS prevention presentation called “Spicin’ Up Prevention” featuring her entertaining character “Condom Miranda”. This powerful presentation encourages crowd participation and raises awareness about the importance of condoms. “Condom Miranda” has received statewide and national media exposure.

The conference will also feature:

• Breakout Sessions- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Misconceptions about HIV, Myths vs. Reality, HIV and the Church
• Free rapid HIV testing
• Flu shots

This event is free and open to the public. The first 100 people who register at www.minorityaidsnetwork.org or by calling 386-274-0634 will receive lunch, conference t-shirt and a hat.