For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Justin Burke - 213.201.1525

EMAIL:jburke@apla.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 2, 2000

WEST HOLLYWOOD DISABILITY AWARD PRESENTED TO AIDS PROJECT LOS ANGELES WORK SERVICES PROGRAM

Los Angeles -- AIDS Project Los Angeles' Work Services Program received the City of West Hollywood's Disability Service Award in the non-profit organization program category. APLA staff Phil Curtis, Rice Russell and Education Division Director, Lee Klosinski accepted the award at the West Hollywood Disabilities Advisory Board meeting on October 11, 2000.

The Work Services Program, one of the first in the country, launched in 1998 after the advent of protease inhibitors and combination therapy. The program helps people with HIV and AIDS return to the workforce, continue working or return to school. Some of the services include providing information about public benefits and insurance, career counseling, providing information about the Americans with Disabilities Act, referrals to vocational rehabilitation services and educational support and practical tips to aid people with HIV in the work environment.

AIDS Project Los Angeles, a non-profit community-based organization, provides direct services to more than 8,000 men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS in Los Angeles County. Services include a food bank, professional dental care, housing assistance, transportation, mental health counseling, case management, home health care and Adult and Child Buddy Support. APLA also provides extensive treatment and prevention education and advocacy on local, state and federal AIDS-related legislation.

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