December 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. the March for Awareness began at Kiener Plaza and ended at St. Louis City Hall for a Rally and Call-to-Action in the rotunda. At 12:30 p.m., Mayor Cara Spencer, community leaders, and HIV advocates delivered powerful messages of solidarity and commitment to supporting ongoing HIV funding and resources. DOORWAYS joined Vivent Health, local AIDS Service Organizations, elected officials, and community leaders in this powerful statement of remembrance, advocacy, and commitment to ending HIV. It also underscored the urgent need to safeguard federal, state, and local HIV resources—now under threat of significant cuts or even elimination nationwide.
“DOORWAYS began in 1988 on the frontlines in the war on HIV,” noted Opal M. Jones, President & CEO of DOORWAYS. “Before HIV funding was added to government budgets, DOORWAYS and other agencies relied on the community to educate leaders on the need for funding and services to stop the spread of HIV—which continues at epidemic levels among those living in poverty and battling homelessness, mental health conditions, and/or substance use challenges. Today reminded me how powerful our collective voice can be.”
Funding for critical supportive services is also in jeopardy. People living with HIV and poverty need a stable foundation to manage their medical recovery regimen and improve quality of life. That means affordable housing, food security, accessible healthcare, and income opportunities—all programs now facing deep reductions.
Want to take action? Visit our website for a sample advocacy script and contact information for elected officials representing St. Louis and Missouri. Together, we can ensure HIV resources remain strong and accessible for those who need them most.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO BRAVED THE SNOW AND FREEZING TEMPERATURE TO JOIN US AT THIS IMPORTANT CALL TO ACTION!
2025 was a sell-out so plan early for 2026 if you plan to be a guest, sponsor, or volunteer!
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DOORWAYS improves the quality of life of people affected by HIV, illness, and poverty, advancing their stability and well-being through housing, health, and empowerment services.
2025: Meet Gregg.
2024: Meet Michael.
2023: Meet Cory.
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