C-IDEAs Presents Drop-In Center with $2,000 to Support Testing and Treatment

On December 2, 2022, C-IDEAs (Community Infectious Disease Advocates) held a community event for World AIDS Day titled “Infectious Disease Health Impacts on the Underserved.” The event was packed and full of support to educate the public on how infectious diseases may impact a community. Several speakers contributed to the conversation. Garland Gravely spoke about his work in the Roanoke Valley. Kenny Young and Joe Cobb shared their work to educate communities. Hope F. Cupit, Erica Jenkins, and Joe Denfield entertained the crowd with door prizes from several local vendors in the Roanoke Valley. Keynote speaker Dr. Cynthia Morrow, Health District Director, Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts, gave an extensive overview of the impacts relating to infectious disease in the Roanoke Valley.

Thanks to the generosity of the community, local sponsors, and the efforts of C-IDEAs, $2,000 was raised to support the work of the Drop-In Center, a program of the Council of Community Services. The Drop-In Center provides access to information/education, resources, and services to prevent HIV/STDs and Hepatitis C. The Center offers compassionate support services for those affected by HIV/AIDS and HCV and supports the groundwork for community-building projects in a safe and confidential environment.

Thank you, C-IDEAs, for putting together this event and all of the sponsors for supporting the event!

C-IDEAs Members: Joe Cobb, Michael Lee Smith, Erica Jenkins, Kenny Young, Joe Denfield, and Hope F. Cupit.

Sponsors: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Carter Bank & Trust, Roanoke Diversity Center, Southwest Virginia Pride, First Citizens Bank, Coalition for HIV Awareness and Prevention of Central Virginia, Holiday Inn Tanglewood-Roanoke, and OneDigital