What's Happening

By Khaila Thomas & Samuella Ware, PhD | November 25, 2024

For over 40 years, HIV prevention and care has been a public health issue at the forefront of implementing science-informed, and evidence-based initiatives to support the people most impacted by the epidemic. However, there is still vital work to be done in this space today. It is imperative to consider what techniques can benefit communities, action-based groups, and organizations working to reduce HIV for the people most impacted. In this blog, there are three vital strategies to consider for those working to end the HIV epidemic and support people living with HIV (PLWH).

By Vignetta Charles, PhD | December 1, 2024

Every year in the HIV field, we lose many heroes. These may be people living with HIV (PLWH) who advocated for themselves and others (“nothing about us without us”), or changemaker allies who focused their talents on addressing ongoing inequities in HIV prevention and care, or people who reminded us that HIV (or any disease) is only one aspect of anyone’s life and reminded us that seeing our whole selves is core to our humanity. In 2024, we lost some greats who changed our lives and the lives of so many others who work in the HIV field and beyond. We highlight a few giants who were partners in ETR’s work and inspire us to keep up the fight.

By Vignetta Charles, PhD | December 17, 2024

In an era marked by unprecedented challenges and rapid changes, the importance of strategic leadership and organizational resilience cannot be overstated. Earlier this year, after a year of encouragement, the ETR Board supported me taking a CEO sabbatical. The reflections and learnings from my sabbatical offered valuable insights into how such a practice can drive significant positive transformations within an organization, in addition to the personal benefits to me as a leader.

By Communities Energized for Health, a project of ETR | February 4, 2025

World Cancer Day is an international day observed every February 4^th to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilize action to address the global cancer epidemic. For Communities Energized for Health (CEH), a project of ETR, this annual observance highlights the importance of our work in addressing secondhand smoke exposure where Californians live, work, and play. Healthy environments start at home, which is why smokefree multiunit housing is vital to creating a protective space for residents to thrive away from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

By Khaila Thomas | March 7, 2025

As young people grow into adolescence, they’re more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol while underage. Risk-taking is a normal component of adolescent development, which is why it’s up to trusted adults to have pivotal conversations that reduce the likelihood of harm and promote healthy behaviors. To prepare for conversations with a teenager about drinking alcohol, begin with these tips.

By Fadya Abdullah | April 20, 2025

Since the mid-1980's, research has made it clear that exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke can be detrimental to everyone’s health, including non-users. As recreational cannabis use becomes more accessible, we are seeing a rise in questions about the impacts of secondhand cannabis smoke. This blog highlights some of the potential health outcomes for adults, pregnant people, children, and pets, as well as cessation resources for people who may be interested in quitting cannabis use.

By Khaila Thomas | April 21, 2025

Physical activity is a vital component in the development of a person’s life. From adolescence to adulthood, moving our bodies throughout the day can have positive effects on our sleep quality, memory, bone health, and more. Classrooms are not only a space to teach valuable skills, but to inspire healthy habits for a lifetime. Learn about the benefits of physical activity in class for students and resources to meet their needs.

By ETR's Native Health and Wellness Team | April 22, 2025

At the heart of our work on the Native Health and Wellness Team at ETR is a commitment to empowering young people. We are invested in practicing youth-engagement models to develop advocacy skills and leadership opportunities to create lasting change in their schools and communities.  

Our Native Health and Wellness team is helping youth develop the tools they need to lead with confidence and make a difference through engaging trainings, mentorship, and hands-on learning and work experiences. 

By Kelley Quinn, M.Ed. | April 23, 2025

When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), most people are familiar with common bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. However, there’s a bacterial STI that has been around for decades but is less well known — Mycoplasma genitalium (MGen). It can be difficult to detect and treat, making awareness important for both prevention and care.

By Communities Energized for Health, a project of ETR | April 30, 2025

Air Quality Awareness Week (AQAW) is an annual campaign created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) dedicated to encouraging people to stay aware of their air quality and incorporate air quality knowledge into their daily lives. For Communities Energized for Health (CEH), a project of ETR, this observance highlights the importance of our work in addressing secondhand smoke exposure where Californians live, work, and play.