An Initiative Of
Donate
An Initiative Of
Call Today Donate

MPOWERMENT

What Is Mpowerment?

What is Mpowerment?  Nashville CARES uses the core elements of the Mpowerment Program to address the needs of same gender loving gay, bisexual, Queer and other Nonbinary men. The intervention combines social, behavioral, and biomedical approaches that help to shape a healthy community and build positive social connections. Teams of Gay Men go to locations frequented by their Same Gender Loving peers to promote and discuss safer sex, share information and tips on HIV risk reduction, along with flyers on upcoming events and distribute free condoms and lube. Skills-building exercises are conducted so men can practice safer sex negotiation, correct condom use and get educated on PrEP, PEP and DoxyPEP. The project draws on the theory of diffusion of innovations, which suggests that people are most likely to adopt new behaviors that have already been accepted by others who are like them and whom they respect.

Mpowerment Core Elements

  • Recruiting a core group of gay men to design and carry out project activities
  • Establishing a project space where many of the project activities can be held
  • Conducting entertaining, venue-based (e.g., bars, community events) outreach by teams of young gay men
  • Sponsoring social events to promote community-building among young gay men
  • Convening peer-led, one-time discussion groups
  • Conducting a publicity campaign about the project within the community

o Nashville CARES offers a safe and welcoming space to build community in a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. All programming is culturally relevant and focuses on same-gender-loving-men but is open to everyone. Our vision brings love, compassion, and support for the same-gender-loving male community to become self-sufficient by prioritizing health, wellness, and a sense of individual value

o Health Passport: Track and get credit for a variety of health or wellness screenings, plus other clients and community activities that we host or collaborate with. When you earn 3 points you'll receive a $25 gift card.

o Retreats: Nashville CARES 25+ year partnership with the Brothers United Network, Inc organization offers an opportunity that unites black same-gender-loving men to engage in thought-provoking educational discussions & fun outdoor activities.

o Take Pride in Your Health Campaign: Nashville CARES 20+ year partnership with Nashville Black Pride offers opportunities to join our Community Advisory Board to help plan and execute programming, distribute free condoms, lubricants and other safer sex items and swag during the weekend. Provide Rapid HIV/Hepatitis C testing, PrEP Now or 2-11 access, DoxyPEP and PrEP navigation services, Harm Reduction information and free Narcan, Kloxxado and Fentanyl test strips with inclusive cares with dignity and respect during each Black Pride celebration.