About Us
What is the Ryan White Program?
The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program was named after an Indiana teenager diagnosed with AIDS in the 1980’s. He put a face on a disease that had been shadowed in secrecy and fear. Ryan died in 1990; four months before the federal legislation bearing his name became law. The intent of this program is to help meet the health needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS who are unable to pay for services and are most in need.
Planning Council Mission
Develop and Coordinate an effective and comprehensive community-wide response to HIV/AIDS in the St. Louis region.
Planning Council Vision
Plan for and design the present and future system of care for persons with HIV, in a way that is comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and reflective of the metropolitan St. Louis HIV community. We collaborate with those providing other resources to identify and address needs, and ensure quality, efficiency, unmet need, and barriers to services, so they may be addressed and eliminated.
What Does The Planning Council Do?
- Prioritize the services most needed for people living with HIV/AIDS and allocate federal funds for these services.
- Develop plans for the delivery of care and services for people living with HIV/AIDS
- Work to ensure that the St. Louis region continues to receive Ryan White Part A funds.
What do Planning Council Members Do?
- Members participate in monthly Planning Council meetings.
- Members bring their experience and knowledge regarding the needs of people and communities affected by HIV/AIDS to Planning Council discussions.
- Members are also assigned to at least one additional committee based on need, interests, and experience.