ACTION OC Closes Its Doors
For over 13 years, AIDS Care Teams In Our Neighborhoods (ACTION) has provided practical and emotional support to men and women living with HIV/AIDS by training and supporting communities of care. Since its mission first began in 1996, ACTION has helped countless individuals living in isolation to regain the dignity that HIV/AIDS took from them. However, the economic downturn, underperformance of fundraising events such as OC AIDS walk, and increased competition for limited resources have made it necessary for ACTION to close its doors at the end of 2009.
Although this was a difficult decision for the organization’s board, thankfully, there have been drastic changes in the treatment of AIDS which means that people are living longer, healthier lives and consequently the need for gap organizations like ACTION has greatly diminished. People living with this life challenging illness have been given an opportunity to take back their lives and empower future generations so that perhaps someday there will be a world without AIDS.
ACTION’s remaining assets will be merged into Shanti Orange County so that they will continue to provide the life-enriching services that have made them the agency with the caring heart. Since 1987 Shanti Orange County has strived to preserve the dignity and well-being of individuals living with HIV and AIDS by providing life-enhancing supportive services, education and psychological care. Shanti’s programs offer a holistic approach to living with HIV /AIDS. The volunteers and staff of Shanti OC are committed to making a positive difference in people’s lives by providing assistance and support in a safe and confidential environment.
For more information, contact Julio Rodriguez, Executive Director, ACTION OC at (949)943-4830 or Sarah Kasman, Executive Director, Shanti OC at (949) 452-0888. Visit Shanti OC online at www.shantioc.org.