What is "I AM"?
The “I AM” Experience reflects a collaborative partnership between Vanderbilt University and Fisk University to develop a capacity building initative for substance abuse and HIV prevention for Black/African American men who sleep with men (MSM) ages 18-24 years old in Nashville, TN.
Why is "I AM" needed?
Centers for Disease Control statistics show that, as compared to all other racial/ethnic groups in the United States, African Americans bear the greatest burden of HIV. African American young people represent half of all new HIV infections among young people ages 13 to 29 years old.
75%
Young African American MSMs comprise more than 75% of new infections among young African American men.
13-29
Among MSMs in the U.S. in 2013, African Americans accounted for the largest estimated number and percentage of HIV/AIDS diagnoses especially between the ages of 13 to 29 years old. (CDC 2015).
NASH
African American MSM in Nashville are also disproportionately affected by HIV and substance abuse.
About Us
The “I AM” Experience prevention program features an exciting program called d-Up! Defend Yourself that recognizes the important racial and cultural strengths found among today’s youth. d-Up! incorporates group activities, skill-building events, and other innovative experiences to provide participants with knowledge, support, and practical tools to make healthier decisions. Participants leave with usable resources and skills to be better equipped and empowered to effect positive change in their lives and in the lives of their friends. d-Up! has been shown to increase outreach, access, and exposure to needed services for participants. d-Up! Defend Yourself helps educate persons about: positive racial and sexual images; HIV and substance abuse; introspection; peer support; and, self-care in a fun, safe, and exciting environment.
d-up!: Defend Yourself
d-up: Defend Yourself! is a community-level intervention designed for and developed by Black men who have sex with men (MSM). d-up! is designed to promote social norms of condom use and assist Black MSM to recognize and handle risk related racial and sexual bias.
HIV Testing, Counseling, and Referrals
Trained staff persons use a mouth swab that test cells from inside the check. Results are available within 20 minutes.
Hepatitis C Testing, Counseling, and Referrals
Trained staff persons use a mouth swab that test cells from inside the check. Results are available within 20 minutes.
