The Feather of Hope Aboriginal AIDS Prevention Society: a community approach to HIV/AIDS prevention.

Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a complex and challenging issue for Aboriginal people in Canada. There is a need for HIV/AIDS prevention programs that address the specific needs of Canadian Aboriginal communities in a culturally accepted manner. The Feather of Hope Aboriginal AIDS Prevention Society provides culturally sensitive HIV prevention programs to Aboriginal communities in Alberta. The community development approach used by the Society emphasizes empowerment at the individual and group level. This approach is congruent with the shift to self-determination by Aboriginal people throughout Canada.