In addition to doing research on traditional and non-tradition treatments of HIV (drugs, physical therapies, diet, herbs, etc.) CRI also has an education and outreach program, speakers bureau and also administers the state's HDAP funds to help people who can't afford their own medication.
CRI was the largest site in the country for enrolling people in the testing of Abbott Lab's Protease Inhibitors. The advantage of having CRI in the Boston Area is that because of its reputation for quality, we will get access to new drug trial earlier than other locations which is a benefit to HIV+ people in this area.
CRI faces two challenges this coming year. Amfar is relooking at how they fund local agencies and this may affect our budget. and the state tax form check-off funds may decrease in the coming year since AIDS may not be on the taxpayers minds as much as in the past and some people think it has been cured.
We are going to rely on privately raised funds more than in the past. I was wondering, is there something we can do through our network around fundraising for CRI. Might there be some people who have access to people who would want to contribute? I would be interested in your thoughts.