More information on PiCASO: The work of the agency
The work of PiCASO has changed over the years since its incorporation in 1991. Starting as a grassroots organization focused on supporting those living with HIV/AIDS, providing buddy programs, nutritional support, and health care advocacy, the agency changed over the years to a case management focused agency working with long term client support. As the care and treatment of HIV/AIDS has continued to improve -- allowing clients to live longer with a better quality of life -- the agency has again changed to meet the current needs of our community. Now, with clients having support from a variety of sources and as a result of the changes in how North Carolina funds HIV/AIDS client services, PiCASO has shifted the work of the agency to three main areas:
* HIV Testing- We provide HIV and Syphilis testing in locations through-out Pitt County. We work to decrease the barriers to getting tested and offer testing at community events, health fairs, soup kitchens, and the county detention facility.
* Education and Advocacy- Alongside our testing program we offer HIV/AIDS education to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Pitt County, and to empower people to help prevent the spread of HIV in our community. We also work to make sure community members are aware of the local, state-wide, and national issues surrounding the issues of the prevention, care and treatment of HIV/AIDS. The agency works to raise awareness that HIV/AIDS is a continuing threat to the health of the community, and how community members can assist in raising awareness and impacting decision makers in our state and nation on the issues of HIV/AIDS.
* Emergency Funding for those living with HIV/AIDS- Through grants and fundraising, PiCASO funds the emergency needs of those living with HIV/AIDS in our community. These funds support emergency needs, including medical costs and assistance with rent and utilities. Staff and volunteers coordinate with other agencies in the community to match needs with funding, as well as other community resources.
MissionThe mission of the Pitt County AIDS Service Organization is to prevent the transmission of HIV through educational outreach and testing to Pitt County and the surrounding counties of Eastern North Carolina and to provide assistance to those living with, and affected by HIV/AIDS in our community. In providing this outreach and these services we strive to treat all people with dignity, respect, and compassion. (Revised 1/23/2012)
 | Current BoardAaron Lucier, President East Carolina University Tony Cellucci, Vice President East Carolina University Leigh Bragg, Treasurer Vidant Health William Gee, Secretary East Carolina University Mary Yahnker, Board Member Retiree Christien Harden, Board Member ECU Graduate Student Brian Goings, Board Member ECU Graduate Student |