Project Inform

Project Inform logo thumbnail, 2010

Project Inform was a pioneering initiative focused on advocacy and information dissemination related to HIV/AIDS treatment and policies. Founded in 1985 in San Francisco, California, by activists including Hank Wilson, Cleve Jones, and others, it emerged in response to the dire need for accurate, up-to-date information about AIDS at a time when the epidemic was largely misunderstood and highly stigmatized. Project Inform played a crucial role in advocating for accelerated development and approval of HIV medications, improving the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS, and influencing public health policy.

History

In the mid-1980s, the AIDS epidemic was escalating, with thousands of new cases being diagnosed, leading to widespread panic and misinformation. Mainstream media and health agencies often provided information that was either inaccurate or overly technical for the general public to understand. Project Inform was established to bridge this gap by providing clear, accessible information on HIV/AIDS treatments and advocating for the rights and needs of those affected by the disease.

Under the leadership of its founder, Hank Wilson, and subsequent directors, Project Inform became known for its hotline service, which offered the latest information on HIV/AIDS treatments, research trials, and health care options. The organization also engaged in advocacy work, pushing for faster approval of HIV medications by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and for more significant investment in AIDS research.

Advocacy and Impact

Project Inform was instrumental in several key advocacy victories in the fight against HIV/AIDS. One of its most significant contributions was its role in the establishment of the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), which provides HIV-related medications to low-income individuals. The organization also played a critical role in advocating for the use of combination therapy, which became the standard of care for HIV treatment in the mid-1990s.

Furthermore, Project Inform was a leading voice in the community-based research movement, advocating for the involvement of HIV-positive individuals in clinical research. This approach not only empowered patients but also led to more relevant and effective research outcomes.

Educational Efforts

Beyond its advocacy work, Project Inform was committed to educating both the public and healthcare professionals about HIV/AIDS. The organization produced a wide range of materials, including treatment guides, newsletters, and reports, which were distributed free of charge. It also conducted workshops and seminars to disseminate the latest research findings and treatment strategies.

Legacy

Project Inform ceased operations in 2019, but its legacy lives on through its contributions to HIV/AIDS treatment and policy. The organization's work helped to transform HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable condition for many. It also set a precedent for patient advocacy, demonstrating the power of informed, community-led action in shaping health policy and research.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS in the United States
• Health advocacy
• Community-based research