Role Model Stories When people share their stories about HIV prevention and other health and life issues, they give powerful support to others who have similar concerns and experiences. Such stories are even more effective when they are told by people who live in our own communities and who have been successful in making healthy behavioral choices.That’s what role model stories are about: building on the strength of shared stories about successful safer sex behaviors for the betterment of others in our communities. Individuals are informally interviewed one-on-one, anonymously, in a place that is convenient and comfortable for them. They are also given incentives for their time. Two confidential interviews are offered: the initial interview, and a follow-up for the storyteller to review the final story for approval before publication. The story is then printed and distributed in the community by peer outreach workers, displayed at sponsoring businesses and agency locations, and handed out at our Safe Talk women’s gatherings. For Example: I’M A 33-YEAR-OLD SINGLE MOTHER & FIGHTER FOR AIDS AWARENESS. When I first started becoming sexually active, I didn’t use condoms. I expected someone to tell me if they had HIV. I thought that those things wouldn’t happen to me. I started hanging out with a friend who used condoms all the time. She said they were easy to use, and helped protect against HIV and STD’s. I decided to start using condoms when I was with a new partner, but after 3 months I would stop. I thought that was long enough to know if the relationship was honest. I started a new relationship with a man that lasted for 6 months. I found a piece of mail that belonged to him that had HIV-related information in it. I asked him if he had HIV and he denied it, but later confessed that he DID have HIV. He knew and never told me! With the support of a friend, I went and got tested. The results came back negative. What a relief! I put my health on the line by not being responsible. I now insist on my partner wearing condoms. I ask if they’ve been tested, or suggest we should think about getting tested together. Because I feel so strongly about the use of condoms, I never get resistance and I’ve never had a guy say no. My life is more important than a one night of unprotected sex. To offer your own unique story, contact Sue Conley at hivwomen@sover.net or at 802 254-4444. 
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