SHAPE YOUR CITY
Student Campaign looking to raise awareness of alarming rates of STDs and STIs in Peoria
Three Bradley University public relations students have teamed up with Central Illinois FRIENDS and Headz Up Barbershop to raise awareness about the alarming rates of STIs in Peoria specifically amongst communities of color.
AuderePR, Central Illinois FRIENDS and Headz Up Barbershop will be hosting a community awareness event called Shape Your City on Monday, November 16, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 116 Northeast Perry Avenue.
According to the 2015’s Peoria County Health Report, “In 2013, the rate of Chlamydia in Peoria County was 1.7 times greater than the United States. In specific zip codes up to 4.9 times greater. The rate of Gonorrhea 
in Peoria County was 2.7 times greater than the United States; with specific zip codes up to 10.7 times greater.” To this day, there is a need for feasible, evidence-based risk reduction interventions among the African-American community in Peoria.
Shape Your City involves an expert STI panelists, HIV/STI screenings, free haircuts, free food and raffle giveaways.
“It’s important to get tested for STI’s including HIV, use condoms, have open communication with your partner and for doctors to test more of their patients,” said Chris Wade, Director of Prevention Services at Central Illinois FRIENDS. “Let your medical provider know that you want to be tested.”
There will be local vendors and businesses who will provide on-site resources. The umbrella goal for this campaign is to ultimately raise awareness about the significantly high STI rates throughout the city.
“There is a need for a community approach to address these chronic elevated STI infection rates,” said former Administrator for Peoria City and County Health Department, Greg Chance.
Shape Your City is free to the public and light refreshments will be served. If you have any questions, please contact Rasheed Habler at Auderepr@gmail.com.
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The Traveler Weekly 