This December, we are proud to honor the beginning of the 40th year of Cascade AIDS Project! Grassroots organizers and LGBTQ+ community members created CAP in 1983 to provide crucial community services in the face of the HIV & AIDS epidemic. Over the 4 decades that followed, our services expanded to include educational outreach, legal advocacy, and primary health care for residents in Oregon and Southwest Washington. As we look back on the past 40 years and observe our “Ruby Anniversary”, we invite you to join us to honor these 40 years of CAP and help shape the next 40 ahead!

ABOUT CAP

Founded in 1983 and incorporated in 1985 as the Cascade AIDS Project, CAP is the oldest and largest community-based provider of HIV services, housing, education, advocacy, and inclusive LGBTQ+ health and wellness services in Oregon and Southwest Washington. In the 40 years we have been in our community, we have made incredible strides in testing, treatment, and prevention of HIV, and we have translated that depth and breadth of experience into further advancing inclusive and affirming healthcare service for the LGBTQ+ community and all those seeking compassionate care.

IT’S NOT OVER

In 1981, HIV & AIDS appeared in Oregon and across the nation. This terrifying disease caused young, otherwise healthy individuals to experience debilitating respiratory conditions and rare skin cancers that advanced quickly — no treatments at that time seemed to work. HIV & AIDS affects individuals of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and sexual orientations, however, the disease provoked intense stigma and discrimination when it was initially linked to gay men. In response, organizations like CAP & Our House formed to provide critical services to support those most deeply impacted.

While there is an immeasurable void left by those who died during the HIV & AIDS epidemic, there is an equal obligation to remember their names, lives, and legacies in Oregon. Many activists and community members survived — HIV is no longer a death sentence. The social climate has in some ways changed for the LGBTQ community in Oregon; in other ways, there is much to be learned in how the community and its allies have fought against discrimination and hate. That fight is not over either.

Looking for ways to honor this historic moment with us? Read on below to see how to get involved, and keep an eye on your inbox for new opportunities each month!