ABOUT
AIDS Response Effort, Inc. (ARE)’s began its’ journey into community health care nearly 30 years ago when a handful of concerned members in our community came together to begin addressing the AIDS crisis in the Winchester community, at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980’s. Their initial effort was in establishing a support group and “buddy” system for those living with HIV/AIDS.
The HIV epidemic has changed these past 30 years, and with that the needs of those living with HIV in our community has changed. To address the needs of those we serve, we have incorporated an integrative approach to the wellness of our clients. We offer a variety of medical and support services for our clients today, which includes: physician visits, lab work, dental care, mental health, substance use services, wellness, support group, transportation, nutrition services, education, financial counseling, and housing assistance.
We have been fortunate to expand our Testing and Prevention Services over the last ten years. We provide comprehensive STI, HIV and Hep-C testing services completely free to the community.
We also offer access to condoms and PrEP for HIV prevention. We can assist clients in insurance enrollment and access to preventive medication (PrEP) at no cost to the client.
ARE added Comprehensive Harm Reduction Services in order to expand our commitment to public health and the prevention of HIV and Hep-C. Comprehensive Harm Reduction (CHR) reduces the adverse health, social, and economic consequences of drug use without requiring individuals to stop using substances.
CHR offers: syringe exchange services, naloxone distribution, substance use counseling, and free rapid HIV and Hep-C testing.
In June 2025, ARE opened ARE’s RISE Center. The RISE Center celebrates, empowers, educated and elevates and connect queer communities in Winchester and Frederick County. We are dedicated to creating an affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Our center provides a wide range of programs and services including peer-led affinity groups, community events, an LGBTQ+ library, Gender Affirming closet, food pantry, and resource referrals.
ARE’s RISE Center is funded 100% by community donations and run by community volunteers.
ARE does not endorse any political view and/or candidate or is involved in partisan activities.