I, John Curry, consider myself a quiet storm in the HIV/AIDS arena. Accepting a position with an AIDS Service Organization in 2007 led me to the Black AIDS Institute (BAI) in 2011. As a Fellow and dual graduate of (BAI) Flagship cohorts, Community Mobilization College, and Science Treatment College, I’ve gained the accolade of National HIV Educator. Being a BAI graduate left me yearning for a higher level of education, and in 2019 I became a master’s level collegiate graduate. As of today, I’ve completed the License to Practice Nursing course with DOXA Academy and I’m studying for my exit exam and the State Board for my nursing license.
As an African American long-time survivor of HIV, I’m well-received in the community I reside. I am the Founder of the Black Treatment Advocate Network (BTAN) Melbourne Initiative, “formerly of the Black AIDS Institute.” I now serve on the Florida Black Leaders Group and am a National “United We Rise” planning member, changing the narrative of HIV. I have been a leader on the Area-7 HIV Planning Body, Church Treasurer, and a Board Member for the largest Community-Based Organization in Brevard County, Florida.
My personal and professional life experiences are needed when educating community members on evidence-based practices surrounding HIV disease. While working in HIV prevention, I’ve continued my mission to marry HIV and SUD (substance use disorders). Currently, I’m positioned as the Chief Executive Officer and Certified Addiction Professional of Safe Place Treatment Services Corporation in Melbourne, Florida.