Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe Team Up to Expand HIV Prevention and Resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Key West and Beyond

Key West, FL — Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe have announced a new partnership aimed at strengthening HIV prevention efforts and community support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, starting in Key West with plans to expand throughout the Florida Keys. By uniting resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to health and empowerment, this collaboration will deliver life-enhancing support to LGBTQIA+ youth, seniors, and transgender individuals through targeted resources and expanded programs.
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Creating a Healthier, Safer Community Together Queer Keys, the only LGBTQIA+-specific nonprofit in the Florida Keys, has long been dedicated to supporting, educating, and celebrating the queer community. Now, in partnership with A.H. Monroe—a trusted leader in healthcare and support for individuals affected by HIV—the two organizations are bringing fresh energy and innovation to HIV prevention and outreach efforts designed for the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Through this partnership, we’re creating a pathway for individuals to access not only critical health resources but also a supportive community,” said Scott Pridgen, Executive Director of A.H. Monroe. “It’s a powerful step forward in addressing the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Keys. Our goal is to make these essential services accessible to everyone who needs them, no matter where they are on their journey.”

Innovative HIV Prevention and Education for Youth and Beyond The partnership blends the strengths of Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe to build comprehensive, inclusive HIV prevention and education programs. In Queer Keys’ youth program, new engaging safe sex workshops, facilitated by educators from the Monroe County Health Department, will provide LGBTQIA+ youth with tools, resources, and knowledge, including PrEP education, to help them make informed choices.

“Every member of our community deserves to feel seen and supported,” said Chris McNulty, Executive Director of Queer Keys. “By uniting with A.H. Monroe, we’re creating a foundation where everyone— regardless of age or identity—can access the basic life opportunities needed for stability and the potential to thrive. This partnership brings people together in ways that bolster our resilience and strengthen our connections.”

Dedicated Support for Transgender Wellness For the transgender community, Queer Keys' TransConnect program and A.H. Monroe’s care services will collaborate on essential HIV prevention, testing, and counseling. This partnership means that transgender individuals in the Keys will have compassionate and affirming access to HIV-related health services tailored to their needs.
Creative Condom Distribution to Foster Safer Choices Through their combined efforts, Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe will reimagine the condom distribution program with approachable, engaging packaging and messaging that make safer sex resources accessible. Collaboration with distribution sites and feedback from community members will help create a comfortable, supportive approach to safer sex choices throughout the Keys.

Fostering Connection and Support for LGBTQIA+ Seniors Looking ahead to early 2025, the partnership will launch a program specifically for LGBTQIA+ seniors, providing social support and health resources to enrich lives and foster community connections. This initiative will cultivate a stronger sense of belonging and ensure that LGBTQIA+ seniors have access to resources that meet their unique needs.

Showing Up and Standing Proud in the Keys Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe plan to amplify their message together at events like the Key West PRIDE Fair and Parade, underscoring their joint commitment to health and community support. This partnership goes beyond HIV prevention; it’s about showing up and standing proudly with the LGBTQIA+ community at every step.

Through this dynamic collaboration, Queer Keys and A.H. Monroe aim to make lasting changes in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Keys, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to lead stable and fulfilling lives.

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