Participation in the International AIDS Conference, expanded testing initiatives and the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care act were among this year's highlights for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC).
The organization held its annual meeting Nov. 1 at the University of Chicago Gleacher Center downtown.
The event celebrated the organization's continued growth around housing programs, case management and law reform.
AFC President/CEO David Munar also unveiled the organization's new strategic plan.
"The fight against AIDS is at a crossroads," Munar noted, adding that changes in both healthcare and science will test service providers in the coming months.
Munar said the organization would work to reduce health disparities that undermine prevention efforts, push for better support systems for people impacted by HIV and improve outcomes of those receiving HIV care.
"In these exciting but uncertain times, we must stand together," he said.
Northalsted Business Alliance and its special events committee were honored with this year's Inspiration Award. Nurse Norma Rolfsen received the organization's Impact Award. Innovation Awards went to Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer and Cermak Health Clinic, for their efforts to resume HIV testing at Cook County Jail.
