GNP NA Presentation Overview

Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS – North America (GNP+NA)A Brief Overview : Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS – North America (GNP+NA) A Brief Overview International AIDS Conference – Toronto, Canada August, 2006


Introduction : Introduction GNP+NA is the North American affiliate of the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GNP+) GNP+NA comprises people living with HIV and AIDS who reside in the United States and Canada


Board of Directors : Board of Directors GNP+NA is governed by a 16-member Board of Directors Representatives are from the United States of America and Canada One director from each country represents GNP+NA on the GNP+ Global Board.


GNP+ Global Board : GNP+ Global Board GNP+ is a global network for and by people with HIV/AIDS The central secretariat is based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands The GNP+ Global Board consists of twelve members - two members from each region


GNP+ Regions : GNP+ Regions Members represent six international regions: North America, Latin America, Caribbean, Asia/Pacific, Africa, and Europe.


Incorporation : Incorporation GNP+NA was incorporated in the District of Columbia in 2002 GNP+NA received its 501C(3) not-for-profit status in July 2003.


Management : Management GNP+NA has no paid staff High Noon Communications, a Washington-based management firm, manages the organization on a pro-bono basis with its communications and management needs


GNP+NA Committees : GNP+NA Committees The daily activities are managed by committees; some of these committees are open to GNP+NA members: Executive Committee Finance Committee Fundraising Committee Program Committee Communication Membership/Nomination Public Policy


GNP+NA ‘s Mission : GNP+NA ‘s Mission To improve the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) by creating and sustaining an active North American network of PLWHA working regionally to address the global pandemic.


Vision : Vision To improve the quality of life of PLWHA through: lobbying for inclusion of people living with HIV/AIDS and their interests; linking people living with HIV/AIDS through local, regional and global meetings and conferences; sharing knowledge and building capacity locally, regionally and globally.


Organizational Profile : Organizational Profile GNP+NA operates a unique bilateral organization GNP+NA strives to achieve and uphold the principles of parity, inclusion and representation in all of its undertakings. Of critical importance to GNP+NA is the inclusion of PLWHA in public debate and decision-making Concerning access to care and treatment, and the eliminating of stigma and discrimination.


Accomplishments : Accomplishments Developed functional system for Board communication and decision-making; Established strategic partnerships; Developed a website; Produced quarterly newsletters in English and French;


Accomplishment : Accomplishment Established multiple mechanisms for membership recruitment; Operationalized the election process in Canada and the USA; Participated in key regional and international meetings and conferences; Produced fact sheets: The Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GIPA) Principles. Immigration/Travel Ban


Moving Forward : Moving Forward GNP+NA Action Plan 2005-2007 identified four (4) strategic priorities: Strengthen the organizational capacity by enhancing its governance and administrative processes, increasing membership, and pursuing diverse funding sources. Lead and participate in advocacy and influencing policy activities related to its mission by ensuring PLWHA representation at key decision-making tables and engaging in policy research, development and monitoring. Enhance its partnerships and collaborations by increasing its engagement with other HIV/AIDS organizations and networks in the region, cultivating relationships that further its mission and improving external communications. Strengthen its capacity by educating and mobilizing people living with HIV/AIDS in the region around global HIV/AIDS issues.


Conclusion : Conclusion GNP+NA has been working hard to build its infrastructure and organizational capacity. The GNP+NA Action Plan 2005-2007 provides focus, guidance and direction to GNP+NA. Its implementation will take the organization to the next level with paid staff, increased membership and greater impact in accomplishing its mission.


Contact GNP+NA by : Contact GNP+NA by Website: www.gnpna.org Email: info@gnpna.org Phone: 202-332-2303 Fax: 202-332-7087 Mail: GNP+NA 1801 Florida Avenue NW Washington, DC 20009 USA