Funding: SAMHSA
The project aims to prevent substance abuse and HIV risk behaviors among Asian and Pacific Islander (API) men who have had sex with other men (MSM) based on the collaboration of community-based agencies: API Wellness Center, Asian Community Mental Health Services and the Public Health Institute. Based on the U.S. Susbstance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) evidence-based intervention programs, we will develop and train partner-based staff and evaluate motivational enhancement therapy (MET) and brief intervention (BI), adapted and tailored to high-risk API MSM. Also, we will implement and evaluate an environmental-level intervention, Cultural Sensitivity Training Program (CSTP), to increase cultural awareness and sensitivity toward API and API MSM in substance abuse, mental health, and HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention service agencies. The participants in MET/BI will be assessed for substance abuse and HIV risk behaviors at intake, six-month follow-up before the second round MET/BI, exit, and six-month post-exit based on the Government Performance Results Act and local measures. CSTP will be evaluated based on pre- and post-satisfaction surveys. The efficacy of the intervention (MET, BI and CSTP) will be evaluated based on process and outcome measures. We will disseminate project findings and a summary of community impact through community forums and professional meetings.