AIDS is not an equal-opportunity disease. The statistical likelihood of contracting HIV varies with age, ethnicity, geographic region, gender, and socio-economic status. Youths, in particular, are profoundly impacted. In 2001, 2.1 million new youth infections were reported worldwide, accounting for more than 40 percent of all new infections.

Many people still lack the reliable information and social support necessary to avoid infection. Reaching these people through service-learning can transform youths from potential victims of the disease into a powerful force for stemming the pandemic.

Y-RISE: The Service-Learning and HIV/AIDS Initiative is NYLC’s multifaceted service-learning initiative for mobilizing young people in the fight against AIDS. Launched in April 2003, it combines research, tool development, training, and program implementation to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and direct service.

Y-RISE is …

• convening global experts to compile data and identify best practices for fighting the pandemic.
• developing and field testing innovative service-learning tools and curricula.
• building a network of service-learning professionals to train educators in the use of service-learning and Y-RISE curricula.
• training a network of youth peer educators and empowering youths to work among their peers.

Y-RISE is Youths Replicating Innovative Strategies and Excellence in HIV/AIDS prevention.