Our Story
ACCESS for Community & Cultural Education Programs & Training (ACCEPT)
is the only community-based organization providing HIV/AIDS prevention education, intervention, and support services targeting African Americans in Washoe County. ACCEPT was founded in 1995 by Pastor Glenn E. Taylor Sr., as an outreach ministry of the Greater Light Church. At that time, no one in the State of Nevada was targeting African Americans, who have been disproportionately affected and infected since the epidemic’s beginning. In 1999 ACCEPT acquired its own 501c3.
African Americans account for more HIV and AIDS cases than any other ethic group. Although only 12% of the US population, African Americans account for 47% of AIDS cases. Ages 13-24 African American males account for 57% of HIV infection. In the same age group 63% of African American women bear the burden of HIV infections. Although we target African Americans, we do not discriminate in our provision of services.
We have subsequently added substance abuse prevention classes for children and parents, parenting education, wellness groups, capacity building trainings, and care services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS in addition to HIV/AIDS prevention.
Our mission is to empower underserved individuals and families by providing public health services and resources through community partnerships serving a multicultural population with emphasis on at-risk communities.