This article originally appeared on HisHealth.org.

Developing and Empowering New Images of Men (DENIM) is an adaptation of CDC’s Mpowerment intervention, a community-building program designed to reduce transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Mpowerment is based on a peer-driven educational model that engages individuals outside of the traditional clinical or case-manager model of care.

The DENIM project takes place at Us Helping Us, a Washington, DC-based community health organization founded in 1985 that offers support and social services for Black gay/bisexual men. In 2011, DENIM was launched to engage and empower young gay/bisexual men of color through provocative group discussions designed to reduce HIV risk. Services include youth engagement programs, HIV/STI screening and linkage to care, social-support services, and interventions for HIV-positive young gay/bisexual men.

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