novam.org

NOVAM is supported by federal, state, and local grants, private foundations, diverse religious communities, and businesses and individuals in the community. It is assisted in its mission by dedicated volunteers who embody NOVAM's philosophy of a compassionate response.

The Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry (NOVAM) was founded in 1987 by members of concerned faith communities in Northern Virginia who wanted to provide a compassionate response to the AIDS crisis. Since that time, NOVAM has played a significant role in the struggle against the AIDS epidemic by providing responsive programs throughout the region.

In 2003, NOVAM received a new client, Will, in its Healthy Education Alternatives for Teens (HEAT) program, which offers case management to HIV positive youth between the ages of 13-24. Will was seventeen years old and had been born with HIV. His mother, who passed away from the disease, did not have access to the medications for HIV positive pregnant women which are readily available today. When he came to NOVAM, Will did not know much about his disease, how to get help, or where to turn. NOVAM was able to step in and provide Will with the assistance and guidance he needed.  For two years, Will participated in the HEAT program, receiving counseling, mentoring, case management, and access to medical care. During this time, Will learned a lot about HIV and living with the disease.