The IAS–USA has established itself as an independent provider of education and information for HIV specialists throughout the developed world; the organization is also committed to fighting HIV and AIDS in developing and underdeveloped countries.

In 2003 and 2004, IAS-USA course attendees purchased CDs and Zulu beadwork made by the Sinikithemba HIV+ Choir--a support group for persons with HIV and AIDS at McCord Hospital in KwaZulu Natal. Almost $20,000 was raised, and funds went directly to providing income and health care for Sinikithemba members. In 2005, IAS-USA sponsored the Zimbabwe AIDS Treatment Assistance (ZATA) Project. By purchasing artwork made by ZATA volunteers, course attendees donated more than $27,000, which helped to make antiretroviral drugs available to Zimbabwean AIDS patients. In 2006, the IAS-USA raised almost $25,000 by selling handmade, beaded jewelry crafted by the Ugandan-women members of BeadforLife. Proceeds went directly to help these HIV-infected women receive medical care.

The IAS-USA is now accepting applications from organizations seeking sponsorship in 2007. One not-for-profit organization will be selected based on criteria determined by the IAS–USA. The IAS–USA will sell items made by the chosen organization’s volunteers at IAS–USA live courses in 2007, with proceeds of these sales going directly to the cause of the organization.

To qualify for sponsorship, the organization must:

1. Be a grass-roots organization with a philanthropic mission to assist individuals from developing or underdeveloped countries who suffer from HIV or AIDS.
   
   
2. Have an infrastructure in place that allows for a 1-year supply of goods to be sold, with proceeds of the sale of these goods directly supporting the medical treatment of HIV-infected persons.
   
   
3. Have a key contact (preferably based in the US) to coordinate the delivery of goods to the IAS–USA and to act as the main liaison between the organization and the IAS–USA.
   

Proposals will be considered on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information, call (415) 544-9400 or email djacobsen "at" iasusa.org.