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Broadway House Celebrates the A.C.E. Program
June 2007—In 2001, a Newark school teacher, Caridad Garciga Izquierdo wanted her 4th Grade students to learn about HIV/AIDS. Cari did some research and discovered there was a long-term care facility, specializing in caring for people with this disease, located right in the city. She worked to facilitate that first student visit to Broadway House more than six years ago. At that time, she had no idea that this field trip would make an impact on not just her students, but on the lives of many youngsters. Her initiative to educate students about HIV/AID, planted the seeds of what would eventually become the A.C.E. (AIDS Community Education) program. During the 2006-2007 school year, in just the first full year of the A.C.E. program, one thousand two hundred students completed the class. As many as 13 middle school, high school, and community organizations have participated in this initiative. Other Newark schools have heard about the success of this program and are inquiring about signing up for next year. This program is generously funded in part by The United Way of Essex and West Hudson, in collaboration with the Red Cross. A.C.E. has proven to be an educational success. Teachers and students tour the facility, meet current and/or former residents, and learn about the human side of the disease. Each interaction is different, but every one has the same heart felt moment. Laughter, tears, and smiles fill the faces of residents, teachers, and students. Students see not the virus, but an individual, with ambitions, goals and dreams. The goals of this innovative program, geared for students in grades 4-12, are numerous. Students receive accurate information on HIV/AIDS, they are educated about high-risk behaviors as they related to contracting the HIV virus and they are counseled about the negative consequences of substance abuse. Participants have the opportunity to meet individuals living with HIV/AIDS and learn about their experiences which increase sensitivity and awareness to this disease. All information is age appropriate and the focus is to promote healthy decision making for life. On June 8, 2007, Ms. Izquierdo was honored for her role of inspiring the vision that became the program. It was her original concept of educating students that blossomed into the program now run by Joy Robinson, MSW. Many teachers, students, and staff members celebrated at Broadway House with her. Currently this program is offered within the Newark School District, but the goal is to expand the program and educate and empower as many students as possible. Education is the one of the keys to prevention of HIV/AIDS. For more information about the ACE program, please contact Joy at (973) 268-9797. |
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Broadway House For Continuing Care - 298 Broadway Newark, New Jersey 07104 - (973) 268-9797 |