CARES works in a variety of capacities to provide prevention information and educational programs to the community. HIV/AIDS information is offered to local schools, clubs, churches and civic organizations. CARES also responds to the in-service needs of organizations such as school, medical care facilities, and other service providers. Additionally invitations are accepted to help any group understand HIV/AIDS as it may pertain to their specific needs. The philosophy that underlies this commitments follows.

Since most teens don't consider themselves at risk for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), STDs (Sexually Transmitted Disease), or unwanted pregnancies the education department focuses special attention on this age group. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia found that teens are increasingly at risk for all of these things. There are over 40 STDs and many of them carry no symptoms at all. That means that someone could be infected (with more than one) and not know it. HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) is one of the infections 

that often has no symptoms. Some STDs can leave you sterile.  Others, such as HIV, can be fatal!

The CDC found that 53.1% of high school kids have had sex. The CDC also found that among sexually active high school students, nearly 25% were using alcohol or drugs. Being drunk or high puts teens at serious risk for being infected with HIV or a STD or becoming pregnant. Many kids are having sex and using alcohol and drugs, but think they aren't at risk. Even after education about STDs and pregnancy, they keep putting themselves in jeopardy. Even if teen are not having sex, it is important to learn about these issues and how to  prevent them.

"HIV prevention must continue to reinforce the importance of safer behavior among persons who are not HIV infected but are at risk for the disease. However, we must also recognize that not everyone living with HIV is able -- on their own to avoid practices that can transmit the disease to other. Agencies . . . cannot lose sight of opportunities and responsibilities to provide ongoing prevention services to their clients."     CAIR Connection Winter 1999-2000