Project Weber/RENEW

Rich Holcomb and James Waterman displaying the Project Weber poster at the 2010 HIV Prevention Summit in Washington DC.

Project Weber/RENEW is a non-profit organization based in Rhode Island, United States, that provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at supporting individuals who are involved in sex work and those affected by drug use. The organization is named in honor of two individuals: Roy Weber, a male sex worker who was murdered in 2003, and Christina Renew, a victim of violence and drug use. Project Weber/RENEW was established to address the gap in services for these populations, recognizing the unique challenges they face, including stigma, health risks, and legal issues.

History

Project Weber/RENEW was founded through the collaborative efforts of community members, public health researchers, and activists who identified a critical need for targeted support services for sex workers and individuals struggling with substance use in Rhode Island. The organization began its operations by offering outreach services, including health education, harm reduction supplies, and referrals to healthcare and social services. Over the years, it has expanded its services to include more comprehensive support mechanisms.

Services

The organization offers a wide array of services designed to meet the needs of its clients, including:

• Health Services: Project Weber/RENEW provides access to health screenings, HIV/AIDS and STI testing, and counseling services. They emphasize harm reduction and provide resources such as needle exchange programs to minimize the health risks associated with drug use.

• Support and Counseling: Understanding the complex needs of their clients, the organization offers emotional support, substance use counseling, and assistance with mental health issues. They aim to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to discuss their experiences and challenges.

• Advocacy and Education: Project Weber/RENEW advocates for the rights and well-being of sex workers and individuals using drugs. They work to raise awareness about the issues facing these communities and promote policies that support harm reduction, healthcare access, and decriminalization of sex work.

• Social Services: The organization assists clients in accessing housing, employment, and legal services. They recognize the importance of addressing the social determinants of health and work to connect individuals with the resources they need to improve their life circumstances.

Impact

Project Weber/RENEW has made significant contributions to the community in Rhode Island, helping to reduce the stigma associated with sex work and drug use, and providing essential services to marginalized populations. Their work has been recognized for its innovative approach to harm reduction and its commitment to human rights and dignity for all individuals.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, Project Weber/RENEW faces ongoing challenges, including securing funding, navigating legal and policy barriers, and addressing the complex needs of its clients. The organization continues to adapt its services in response to the evolving landscape of sex work and drug use, with a focus on expanding its reach and impact.

See Also

• Harm reduction
• Sex work
• Substance use disorder
• HIV/AIDS