Quick GuidesBy Programs
HIV Prevention and Education
Get Tested for HIV and STDs
Tele-Health
Many Men, Many Voices (3MV)
Brothas Alive!
Case Management and Health Services
Health Awareness and Prevention
Rafiki Housing
Black LGBT Community Focused Activities
Living Now
Rafiki Wellness
By Services
HIV/AIDS Services for Men
CONNECTED
Empowerment!
SATURDAZE
AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
Get Tested for HIV and STDs
3MV Group Workshops, for Gay/Bi or Same Gender Loving
Safety Counts Group Workshops, for Active Substance Users
Healthy Relationships Group Workshops, for HIV Positive Men
Case Management and Linkage into Medical Care
Prevention Case Management
Housing
One-on-One Counseling and Support
Straight Black Men’s Drop-in GroupHIV/AIDS Services for Women
AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
Get Tested for HIV and STDs
Case Management and Linkage into Medical Care
HousingGeneral Black Health and Wellness Services
Health Awareness and Prevention
Rafiki Wellness
• Health Enhancement and Stress Reduction Activities
• African American Critical Mass Health Conductors Workshop
• Healing Grief Seminar
• CAMIEO – Complementary Alternative Medicine, Information, Education and Outreach
CONNECTED
CONNECTED is a weekly drop-in group on Mondays for African American HIV+ men. This group is designed to increase awareness about the many co-factors that impact HIV+ health. Those issues include dealing with stigma, disclosing to family, friends or sexual partners, deciding if or when to start HIV medication, understanding how behavior change works, giving and getting support, and how to improve our health. CONNECTED looks at how we make decisions and their impact on health and, in the process, guides us towards positive change.
For more information, contact Francis Broome at (415) 615-9945, ext. 114.
Empowerment!
Empowerment! is a new multi-session workshop. Join BCA in empowering our community one person at a time. Join our 3-session Empowerment group. You won’t regret it!
First group: June 5, 8, and 10.
Second group: June 15, 19, 22.
For more information, contact Melinda Pierson at (415) 615-9945, ext. 118.
SATURDAZE
SATURDAZE is our monthly drop-in group for African American HIV+ men looking to connect with other brothers on a social level. SATURDAZE offers continental breakfast and complementary alternative services, such as massage, chiropractic, and reflexology, to help participants unwind, heal and let go of some of the pressures of the world.
For more information, contact Francis Broome at (415) 615-9945, ext. 114.
AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
BCA is now an enrollment site for ADAP. If you want to enroll, have questions or need help resolving problems, please contact Ben Hayes at (415) 615-9945, x 117.
HIV Prevention and Education
BCA provides culturally competent prevention services designed to educate the community. Highly skilled outreach workers work directly in the communities most at risk. BCA also facilitates active collaborations with community organizations to attain the greatest reach among African Americans. BCA conducts workshops and sponsors health forums designed to raise awareness about HIV.
See also Many Men, Many Voices (3MV), and Brothas Alive!.
Get Tested for HIV and STDs
Your health is vital. Take control of your health now. Find testing sites near you. http://www.hivtest.org/search/result.cfm
Tele-Health
If you are an HIV-positive individual who would like to talk to an HIV specialist, nutritionist or pharmacist, you can now talk to them from your local organization, BCA, through a secure live video network.Tele-Health services will be available every Tuesday, 2pm – 4pm and Thursday, 10am – 12pm.
For more information, contact Teddy at 415.615.9945, x116. Click here to view flyer.
Many Men, Many Voices (3MV)
Many Men, Many Voices is a gathering of Black gay men, who come together for six sessions to examine life, liberty and our roles in an evolving free society. This group level STD/HIV prevention intervention was developed by and for Black gay men. The intervention addresses behavioral influencing factors that affect decision making, including cultural/social norms, sexual relationship dynamics, and the social influences of racism and homophobia.These sessions address specific influencing factors that affect healthy living for Black gay men.
For more information and session times and to confirm your attendance, contact the 3MV Program Coordinator, at 3MVmanager@bcoa.org or call 415.615.9945 x 114
Many Men, Many Voices (3MV) is funded by the Centers for Disease Control.
Brothas Alive!
'Brothas Alive!' is a comprehensive HIV health education and risk reduction program for Black men. This includes men who are sexually active (straight, bi, or gay) and those who use or are addicted to alcohol or other drugs. The program is designed to help you stay on track or get on track with health needs and includes two risk reduction workshops series—Safety Counts and Healthy Relationships —Individual Counseling, Health (Prevention) Case Management, Community Outreach and Health Education and Peer-to-Peer Support.
Safety Counts helps individuals at risk to avoid becoming infected with HIV or transmitting the virus to uninfected persons. Each participant attends two educational group meetings and two group socials, combined with one individual counseling session and two follow-up contacts with a BCA health educator. This four-session workshop is especially designed for active injection drug and crack cocaine users. For further information call Francis Broome at (415) 615-9945, x 114.
Healthy Relationships is a five-session series of educational and support groups targeting persons living with HIV/AIDS. This series helps individuals develop the skills and knowledge to prevent the further spread of HIV to others as well as to improve and maintain their health while living with the HIV virus or AIDS. Sessions are held Thursdays at 10:30 am. at BCA, 2800 Third Street in San Francisco. For further information call Ben Hayes at (415) 615-9945, x117.
Individual Counseling about HIV risks and HIV transmission is provided confidentially by health education and counseling staff at BCA. In combination with BCA’s health education and risk reduction workshops, referral may be made from other services such as Safety Counts, Healthy Relationships, and Many Men Many Voices. If you have questions about your own risk or that of a spouse or partner, call Phillip Watson at (415) 615-9945, x108.
Health (Prevention) Case Management is provided if you are homeless, addicted, jobless, or clinically depressed. BCA can set you up with Case Managers who can help you with the counseling, benefits assistance, referral services, and other support you may need. If you have questions about these services, call Phillip Watson at (415) 615-9945, x108.
Community Outreach and Health Education is provided by BCA’s outreach and health education team in underserved neighborhoods such as the Bayview-Hunters Point, South of Market, Visitacion Valley, the Tenderloin and the Western Addition. This team is knowledgeable about resources and services that are available. If you have questions about our community outreach services, call Francis Broome at (415) 615-9945, x 114.
Peer-to-Peer Support is offered as part of BCA’s Prevention with Positives services. Our Health Education Team includes individuals that come from the very same cultural, social and economic background of the individuals and families we serve. As an HIV positive individual you will have the opportunity to receive peer-level counseling and support from someone who understands what you’re facing and has practical knowledge, skills and experience to help you on your journey to improved health and living. If you have questions about your Peer-to-Peer support, call Phillip Watson at (415) 615-9945, x108.
Frequently asked questions:
Q I am a black man living with AIDS, are these groups and services only for gay men?
A The groups are not specifically for gay or bisexual men. The groups are mixed will all genders and sexual preferences. Everyone is made to feel welcome and comfortable.
Q Does it cost money to attend these groups?
A All services at BCA are free of charge
Q Will the Black Coalition on AIDS share my personal information with other agencies?
A All client information is confidential and kept in locked file cabinets. Personal and confidential medical information about any client is shared with other medical or social service providers only with the client’s written and signed permission.
Case Management and Health Services
As a trusted community organization with a long history in San Francisco’s Black community, BCA has the most extensive access to culturally competent resources for HIV+ people. BCA’s case management services ensure that people living with HIV have access to public and private benefits, housing, quality medical care, and other social services and information for healthy living.
For more information, contact Randall Flagg, Client Services Coordinator, at healthservices@bcoa.org or call 415.615.9945 x 112
Health Awareness and Prevention
BCA works with a coalition of community-based organizations that address and work to raise awareness about and prevent health disparities – ranging from high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer to HIV and other illnesses. The African American Coalition for Health Improvement and Empowerment (AACHIE) provides education, screening and testing for a range of health issues affecting the Black community.
For more information, contact Carmella Patton, AACHIE Program Coordinator, at aachiecoordinator@bcoa.org or call 415.615.9945 x 104
Rafiki Housing
BCA's Housing Program began in 1991 when we opened our first transitional housing program in Bayview Hunters Point. While the Brandy Moore House (BMH), our 11-bed transitional housing facility is its best-known program, Rafiki Housing is actually a multi-service housing program with various components.The majority of Rafiki Housing clients were formerly homeless and dual or triple diagnosed individuals, meaning that in addition to HIV, most clients are also dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues. In addition to BMH, BCA works with the Bernal Heights Neighborhood Development Corporation to provide a permanent housing facility located in the Potrero Hill/Bayview area of San Francisco. This collaboration has flourished since 1994. BCA also works with other local housing and treatment programs to address the issues of affordable housing, chemical abuse and treatment, and mental health as they factor into a person's ability to live independently beyond this program. BCA also offers extensive case management, referrals, and emergency housing options for those most in need.
Brandy Moore House
BCA's Brandy Moore Housing facility is the crowning jewel of Rafiki Housing. The 11-bed transitional housing facility provides a comforting, supportive, and empowering program model to residents dealing with HIV/AIDS, homelessness, substance abuse, and/or mental health concerns. The facility, operational since 1996, is a crowning achievement in integrating services for those living with HIV and dealing with multiple other factors impacting their HIV health.
Brandy Moore House was dedicated in memory of BCA co-founder, William “Brandy" Moore, a staunch advocate for fair housing and HIV/AIDS prevention among San Francisco's Black community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q How do I get into Brandy Moore House?
A Because of its limited space, there is usually a waiting list to get into BMH. You must also be HIV +, have proof of income, and pass a tuberculosis test. The waiting list time varies, but the sooner you can do an intake with a case manager, the sooner we can get you on the list. BMH residents must also remain clean and sober for the entire 6-month period they are in residence and attend treatment programs, house meetings, support groups, and take whatever measures necessary to address the multitude of factors impacting their HIV health. The goal of BMH is to ensure that all clients receive the support they need to empower themselves to effectively transition into permanent or independent housing at the completion of the program.
Q Do I have to be HIV+ to get into BMH?
A Yes. Brandy Moore House is a residential facility specific to HIV-positive individuals. We are happy to refer HIV-negative homeless to other housing programs in the area if you call our main number, (415) 615-9945.
Q Do I have to be Black to get into Brandy Moore House ?
A No. BCA cannot discriminate in housing on the basis of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic background, income, or age. At most times, those living at Brandy Moore House represent a very diverse cross-section of the community.
Q Do I call Brandy Moore House to set up an intake appointment ?
A No. Direct all calls to BCA administrative offices, which is where all intakes are done. If you have other questions, please contact Randall Flagg, Client Services Coordinator or call (415) 615-9945.
Contact Rafiki Housing Staff
Mailing Address*
2800 Third Street
San Francisco, CA 94107Phone Number
415.615.9945 (Administrative Offices)
415.931.8678 (Brandy Moore House)Fax Number
415.615.9943 (Administrative Offices)
415.931.9847 (Brandy Moore House)Contacts
Randall Flagg, Client Services Coordinator
William Jones, Brandy Moore House Facilities Manager* BCA does not make public the address of the Brandy Moore House for reasons of confidentiality. Please mail all correspondence to BCA's administrative offices or call 415-615-9945.
Straight Black Men’s Drop-in Group
BCA, in partnership with the Southeast Partnership for Health Center of Excellence, conducts a drop-in support group for HIV-positive straight Black men. Stop by BCA’s offices every Friday at 10:30 a.m. You’ll find a safe and welcoming environment. Food is provided. For more information, contact (415) 615-9945, ext 117.Click here to view flyer.
Black LGBT Community Focused Activities
An Annual Black LGBT Film Festival, an Annual Black LGBT Health and Wellness Retreat, the monthly Audre and Langston Salon, and the BCA LGBT Council are components of a privately-funded Black LGBT community-building program in place at BCA These services complement our publicly funded HIV-related services and help us counter the isolation and marginalization that contribute to poorer health outcomes in Black LGBT. Check the calendar for the dates for these activities.For more information, contact Francis Broome at (415) 615-9945, ext. 114.
Living Now
“Living Now” is a 10-week community-driven, community-participatory, community-empowering peer education program. It is called “Living Now” because it affords all participants a positive and constructive outlook on living with HIV/AIDS. As a community-driven program, it relies on the input and oversight of community opinion leaders and stakeholders. Furthermore, it is an educational program by and for people living with HIV disease. This program was created to help people who are living with HIV to develop positive, effective life management skills and knowledge. Contact Tewodros (Teddy) Teketel, Special Consultant, at (415) 615-9945, ext 116
Next classes begin June 17th. Click here to view postcard
Rafiki WellnessHealth Enhancement & Stress Reduction Classes
Good for the Body and SoulFun and Exciting Health Enhancement and Stress Reduction Classes are offered every Thursday evening and Saturday morning for those who are serious about taking better care of their health this year!
Classes are held at The Health and Wellness Network / BCA, 2800 Third Street @24th Street
Suggested Donation: $5 (No one will be turned away for lack of funds.)
FREE to residents of zip codes 94107, 94124 & 94134.
No experience necessary. Most supplies provided.For more information, email or call 415.615.9945.
African American Critical Mass Health Conductors Workshop
Health Care Should Be A Right / Good Health is a Responsibility
Harriet Tubman freed herself and led many slaves to freedom as the conductor of the “underground railroad” during the 1800s. Today, her tenacious pursuit of freedom has inspired a modern freedom movement for better health among Black people. Join the movement now!
In the spirit of Harriet Tubman, who took herself to freedom first, you will learn practical ways to achieve your health goals. For four months, as part of a group (trio), you will focus on personal health goals that you choose, such as more exercise, better nutrition, weight release, good mental health, less stress, better sleep, etc. Together we give support, celebrate successes and get past our stumbling blocks.
At monthly gatherings, you will learn about stress management, metabolic syndrome and how to reduce fats and sugars. You will participate in movement activities and sample a variety of health foods. At the end of the journey, you will notice an improvement in your physical health or increase knowledge about good heath, or both!For more information, email or call 415.615.9945.
CAMIEO – Complementary Alternative Medicine, Information, Education and Outreach
Relax—Restore—RejuvenateMassage, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Health Screening, Healthy Food, and more. Receive Practitioner Services Valued at more than $150.00, all at no charge!!!
Save the Dates!!!
First Saturdays in 2009 – February 7th, March 7th, April 4th, May 2nd, June 6th
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 AM
Location: TBDFor more information, email or call 415.615.9945. Click here to view postcard.
