Mental Health Association of Northwestern PA

World AIDS Day Program at the MHA

"Universal Access & Human Rights: Act Aware" was the theme for 2011. A Memorial Celebration for World Aids Day was held on Wednesday, December 7 at 11:30AM at the Mental Health Association. The program was dedicated in memory of Ms. Claudette McAdory, a dear friend, educator and advocate. Ms. McAdory was instrumental in spreading AIDS awareness to the faith based community and beyond the borders of Pennsylvania.

The guest speaker shared his recovery story and answered questions about HIV/AIDS. Reverend W. Owen Rhodes from New Jerusalem Lutheran Church led those in attendance in prayer and a call to action of living our lives in faith. Mrs. Anoia Rhodes Hobson played selections from "Encourage Yourself", "I Love the Lord", and "We"ve Come this Far by Faith". Names were added to the Tree of Hope. Two locally made AIDS quilts that were donated to SHOUT Outreach were on display. Free and confidential testing was available.

Attendee’s Comments:

"We recognized and celebrated the lives of persons meeting the challenges of HIV/AIDS."
"The readings, songs, and speakers’ messages all tied together to give inspirations to me."
"The speaker was well informed both by personal experience and medical knowledge. He was personal and open about his own problems and was encouraging to others who may need services. The homily was inspiring. The readings were a spiritual comfort."
"The program was informative and very well put together. Most of all it was respectful and comfortable program."

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