You chose to provide a short written description (up to 300 words) explaining how your organization makes an impact in the community.For more than 35 years, Aunt Rita's Foundation has worked to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities across Arizona by advancing HIV prevention, expanding access to care, and addressing the social and structural factors that impact health outcomes.
Through innovative, statewide programs such as GetTestedAZ.org and HIVAZ.org, Aunt Rita's removes barriers to HIV and STI testing, prevention, treatment, and supportive services. Together, these platforms provide thousands of Arizonans each year with free testing resources, navigation to medical care, and access to Arizona's largest HIV resource directory, featuring more than 450 agencies, clinics, and community service providers. Both platforms are also available in Spanish, increasing equitable access for Spanish-speaking communities and helping connect individuals in rural and Tribal regions to essential services.
Beyond testing and referrals, Aunt Rita's fosters long-term health and community connection through programs that address social isolation, food insecurity, youth empowerment, and healthy aging. Our Experienced Escapades program reduces loneliness among older adults living with HIV through wellness activities and peer engagement, while Rita's Resource Pantry helps ensure individuals have reliable access to nutritious food and other essential resources.
Collaboration is central to our mission. We partner with healthcare providers, community organizations, public health agencies, and the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities Initiative to strengthen Arizona's HIV care continuum and ensure individuals can seamlessly access prevention, medical care, and wraparound support.
By combining innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and compassionate, person-centered services, Aunt Rita's Foundation is helping build healthier, more connected communities while advancing our vision of ending HIV in Arizona.
Social media handleshttps://www.facebook.com/AuntRitasFoundation1
https://www.instagram.com/auntritas
https://www.linkedin.com/company/74359307