Project Prevent, Engage, Empower, Respond (PEER): An HBCU-Led HIV and Substance Use Primary Prevention Intervention

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Community Health

Background:

• HIV and substance use pose significant risks to young adults, particularly within Black/African American communities.
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is identified as a priority area for the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative.
• Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are crucial in addressing health needs within their student populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of Project Prevent, Engage, Empower, Respond (PEER), a primary prevention initiative.
• To address the specific needs of Black/African American college students aged 18-25 regarding HIV and substance use.
• To highlight the collaborative approach between Southern University and A&M College and the University of Iowa.

Main Methods:

• Community and academic stakeholder consultation guided planning and continuous improvement.
• Utilized multimodal primary and secondary data to inform initiative design.
• Implemented bimonthly mobile HIV testing, disseminated prevention supplies, and delivered evidence-based interventions.

Main Results:

• Project PEER successfully raised awareness on sexual health and substance use prevention.
• Mobile HIV testing and intervention delivery reached the target demographic.
• Community and social media outreach enhanced engagement efforts.

Conclusions:

• HBCU-led, community-academic partnerships are effective for health initiatives.
• Flexibility, cultural congruence, and young adult-driven approaches are vital for success.
• Project PEER demonstrates a model for addressing HIV and substance use prevention in vulnerable populations.