This year marked the quarter century anniversary of Vermont CARES. Without you, HIV care and prevention would not be possible across the most rural and most urban corners of our state. To be frank, this is not an anniversary our founders anticipated reaching. In the early days of the AIDS crisis, it was unimaginable that HIV would change so much.

Today, the virus is treatable. We know how to prevent new infections, and social stigma is - slowly, desperately slowly - changing. You make Vermont a leader in HIV care, treatment, and prevention.

We do not currently expect Vermont CARES will be around for another 25 years. Our HIV positive leaders and volunteer Board of Directors have outlined a vision in which CARES may not be needed if we find a cure for HIV, a successful vaccine, or other medical advances that stop AIDS forever.

In the meantime - as we see more Vermonters come through our doors in need of free testing, in need of housing if they are HIV-infected, in need of medication, or just in need of someone who can listen to and understand what they're going through - we will be steadfastly their consistent support.

Your contribution, your volunteerism, and your conversations about HIV in your social circles all make the world a better place for our neighbors, friends, and loved ones affected by HIV/AIDS.

With all our sincere thanks,

Peter Jacobsen

Executive Director