All About CoMMUNITY Planning Groups
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) require jurisdictions who receive federal funding to engage in a collaborative planning process to develop local strategies to accelerate progress toward reaching the goals of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy. The ultimate goals are to prevent new HIV infections, increase access to care and improve health outcomes, and reduce HIV-related health disparities. UWMN partners with four regional RW Part B Community Planning Groups to assist in this process.
What are community planning groups?
Community planning groups consist of stakeholders, volunteers, and advocates who oversee planning, prioritization and allocation of Ryan White Part B funding.
What do the community planning groups do?
The community planning groups have several duties, including determining the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS, especially those not in care, setting priorities for the allocation of funds, developing a comprehensive plan for the organization, delivery of health services, and assessing the effectiveness of the grant administration. Stay up-to-date with planning group activities by reading our weekly newsletters here!
What areas do the consortia and community planning groups serve?
The state of Tennessee is divided into five geographical regions, and each has its own autonomous community planning group. The regions are East (24 - orange), Middle (39 - blue), Southeast (11 - pink), Southwest (3 - Gray), and West (18 - Green). If you are interested in learning more about the Southwest region’s planning group, go to HIVmemphis.org for more details. (Southwest counties include: Fayette, Shelby, and Tipton).
Who is a part of the community planning groups?
People living with HIV/AIDS, community leaders, community-based organizations, and passionate individuals who represent the interest of those both infected and affected by HIV/AIDS in Tennessee.
Who administers the community planning groups?
The Tennessee Department of Health receives funds from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and oversees consortia and community planning groups to receive input from community members on program implementation. On the local level, United Way of Greater Nashville (UWGN) administers the funds for Ryan White Part B activities related to community planning groups (except in the Memphis area, which is administered by Shelby County Government).
Can I join a community planning group?
Yes, everyone is invited to join their regional community planning group! Fill out a membership application today. We also encourage you to join us for a partnership meeting to familiarize yourself with the processes. Refer to the calendar for a schedule of upcoming regional meetings.
When is the next meeting?
View our calendar for the most up-to-date meeting schedule.