ACTIVITIES AND PUBLICATIONS

Service Learning, 1999-2000

  • Program Report from Florida International University

    Note: This report, prepared in 1999, describes the program as it was developed at that time. Although the program has changed, some of the ideas may be useful to other campuses.

    There are several peer health education programs at Florida International University (FIU). One peer health education student group is called Generation Safer Sex. These students receive periodic training throughout the year on HIV/AIDS, STDs, and other sexuality issues. In addition to factual information, they also learn communication and sexual negotiation skills. They also learn effective skills on how to conduct engaging HIV/AIDS education and prevention presentations. Presentations are made to students attending FIU, community colleges, and Miami-Dade County public middle schools and high schools. Students who do not go through the training program can still become volunteer members to assist with health promotion programs by staffing tables, creating displays, and performing other duties as members of this student group. All students who make presentations must be trained. Generation Safer Sex works closely with Residential Life, Greek Life, Athletics, Student Activities, the Volunteer Office, student clubs, and groups such as BACCHUS.

    In 1992, the University and the community came together to pool resources for HIV/AIDS education and prevention. Initial funding for the first three years of the program was largely provided by a renewable grant from the Dade Community Foundation. Additional funds were provided through the Health Care and Wellness Center as well as student government. University faculty and community leaders conducted a campus needs assessment and were also asked to participate on a university committee. Members of Generation Safer Sex spoke to influential leaders in the schools, such as guidance counselors and principals, to show them that important HIV/AIDS education, and health education programs in general, are needed. Through networking with Dade County Public Schools, Generation Safer Sex has been invited to various schools in the community. The program office works with the peer educators to schedule the presentation time and make transportation arrangements. The program is trying to prevent HIV/AIDS by raising awareness and providing education to Dade County middle and high school students as quickly as possible.

    Care Resource, the Miami-Dade County Health Department, Body Positive (group organized and run by people living with HIV or AIDS), and the FIU AIDS Committee are just some of the many different community groups and agencies involved in this campus program. One very special program that is done by Generation Safer Sex at FIU is the collection of toys for children living with HIV and AIDS. The toys are distributed at a Halloween party sponsored by the group. The Generation Safer Sex students, working with members of the FIU AIDS Committee, also provide support for the annual AIDS Walk Miami, the major community fundraiser to benefit the prevention, counseling, testing, and treatment programs and services for individuals living with HIV infection.