AIDS Project of Southern Vermont

One of the most important organizations for the LGBT community in the area is the AIDS Project of Southern Vermont. APSV provides direct services to people living with HIV/AIDS, and also HIV prevention services to those at most risk in Windham, Bennington, and southern Windsor counties. Founded by volunteers in 1988 as a grass roots, community based group, the AIDS Project now fills an important statewide role in making sure that Vermont’s fight against the AIDS epidemic is strong and effective. Their mission is to provide direct services to those whose lives are affected by HIV/AIDS, to offer education about HIV/AIDS to help prevent its spread, and to promote understanding within the communities served.

The Mens Program and Womens Program are important parts of the APSV. Their mission is HIV prevention through community building. As a result there are frequent potluck dinners, dances and other social events held on a regular basis. These events are intended to combat the isolation that many LGBT folks experience in rural areas.