Biography

Mission: The Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition, Inc. (AHRC) is a community-based wellness organization committed to promoting health and dignity by reducing the impact of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, STI, and Substance Use within vulnerable communities.
Vision: "We envision a world where all people are accepted, valued, and have access to healthcare and support that leads to a fulfilling life."
History: In 1994, AHRC grew out of concern about the high rate of HIV transmission among Atlanta's injection drug users (IDUs). AHRC was formally incorporated in 1995 with the goal of educating IDUs and non-users, community leaders, public health, safety, and elected officials, and other organizations about the effectiveness of harm reduction strategies to reduce the transmission of HIV/AIDS. One year later, AHRC secured permanent office space and obtained 501(c) (3) status from the federal government. To our knowledge, AHRC is the only organization in Atlanta that focuses specifically on promoting harm reduction strategies not only to affected populations, but also to the broader community. Building trusting relationships between AHRC outreach workers and active drug users is the foundation upon which behavioral changes are built. In the community where we deliver interventions, we have provided HIV prevention tools and information Monday through Sunday- rain and shine.