GMHC Launches a NEW YOUTH Campaign – KISS and TELL w/ Club1319

GMHC Launched a new Youth Campaign called “Kiss and Tell.” The campaign was developed in partnership with young men, ages 13 to 19, who participate in GMHC’s new youth leadership-development program, CLUB1319. The program provides HIV prevention education, social networking, skills training, and opportunities to participate in developing social marketing campaigns, such as Kiss and Tell. Mike Ruiz and Martin Berusch donated their time and photography to help spread the message…

Club 1319 is not your average youth program! It is a boys club specifically designed to focus on the unique needs and interests of young, questioning gay or bisexual teens who want to learn how to make smart decisions and have support in doing so.

The Club is a beautiful, welcoming and safe space located in the GMHC Center for HIV Prevention in Chelsea. It features a cyber café equipped with state-of-the-art Apple computers and printer, plus a library and lounge area. Participants will have fun interacting with peers, learning about themselves, and getting necessary tools to make well-informed decisions for living a healthier life.

The Club is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 4pm-8:30pm. There are nightly activities and events such workshops in art, photography, digital design vogueing, job search and resume writing; classes in self-defense; movie and game nights; and more.

Special workshops are held once a month on important issues such as Health & Wellness, Community in Action, and Syndemic Factors which include HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, safer sex, talking to your doctor, substance use, career planning, resume writing and reaching your future financial goals.

Incentives for attending the workshop include: A $25 TD Bank Visa Gift Card, 2 Movie Tickets and a Metro Card, Dinner is also provided.

“I’ve been to the actual space and I have to say, I would have loved a place just like this to go to – just to ‘be’ – when I was a teenager.  Removing the negative stigma of ‘gay teen’ is so important and having a place where you’re accepted just as you are, coupled with caring staff members to give information on important issues such as Health & Wellness, Community in Action, and Syndemic Factors which include HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, safer sex, talking to your doctor, substance use, career planning, resume writing and reaching your future financial goals. I must say, CHEERS to Club1319.” – H. Luiz Martinez