June 2023: RAINDrops E-News

RAIN is thrilled to announce the arrival of a brand new 28-foot mobile care unit. This is the newest tool that will allow RAIN’s outreach team to offer HIV and STI testing and supportive services in nontraditional settings. The RV has the necessary private spaces and equipment for confidential testing, prevention education, and quick access to medical care for HIV or PrEP. 

In addition, the computer technology installed in the unit will enable telehealth visits to be available after testing. This feature would make it possible for the individual to immediately see a medical provider. Eliminating the possibility that they would miss an appointment scheduled at a later date. Although this service isn't available quite yet, RAIN is working to make this an option in the near future!

This mobile care unit further increases RAIN’s comprehensive service continuum as it offers flexibility in the spaces, places, and times that HIV testing and supportive services can be provided. 

RAIN is grateful to the Mecklenburg County Department of Public Health for the resources that allowed this expansion in HIV prevention and linkage to care program offerings! 

Darlena Blackwell

Director of Client Relations

RAIN’s newest group is the culmination of research identifying the need for added support for members of the LatinX community. The LatinX Support Group was formed by Jazmin Cedeno, Laurita Lezama, Maria Jose, and Diana Barrera. These staff members collaboratively forged partnerships with community members and initially formed a client focus group, which then led to the implementation of the LatinX support group. Currently, there are 12 members, and the staff continues to receive weekly referrals from outside resources for additional attendees.

The only requirement for the group is that you have a diagnosis of HIV. For the group to have a large participant base at the onset of programming is a mark of future success. Historically speaking, it is difficult to engage the LatinX community in certain programs, due to cultural beliefs, and the stigma that society has placed on certain subjects. Despite these challenges, this group is proving to be one that will impact the community in a different way. An additional benefit of this group is that they have a Spanish speaking Licensed Professional Counselor present in group meetings. Kudos to the RAIN staff for working tirelessly to bridge a community gap. 

If you or someone you know is interested in joining this group or learning more please reach out to Jazmin Cedeno at (704) 207-6010.

Economists have a term for how you feel when you make a charitable gift. They call it “warm glow giving” because donating to a great cause gives you that deep, satisfying feeling that you have done something good. And you have done something good because your gift is altruistic. It is for the benefit of another.

Would you like to have that warm glow feeling for years to come? Consider adding RAIN to your estate plan. You can name RAIN in your will or call the organization as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or a retirement account. 

If you want to chat about the possibilities, please call Joyce Brooks, at 704-973-9818 or send an email to j.brooks@carolinarain.org

Joyce Brooks

Grant and Donor Relations Manager

Deion Pendleton
HIP Lead Coordinator

Deion was born in Rochester, NY. He stumbled upon a likeness for learning about people and wanting to help in any way he can. He graduated with a degree in psychology from Monroe College. He knew he was destined for human services. 

He spent time volunteering and then working for an agency called Action For A Better Community in New York. This gave him an opportunity to start giving back and helping people of many backgrounds. Most of all he appreciated that he was able to help people that looked just like him. At RAIN he loves that he is able to bridge the gap in access to medical services and build trust between people of color and the healthcare system. 

Deion started with RAIN as a HIP Lead Coordinator in July 2022. We are so grateful for the skills and compassion that Deion brings to our organization!

Fun Fact: He can sing and has a twin brother who raps.

RAIN would like to extend gratitude to one of our generous sponsors, The Wine Vault. The Wine Vault has been a friend of RAIN since 2003. They have been featured as our Gay Bingo wristband sponsor since 2019. RAIN is so grateful for the continued support from The Wine Vault!

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