Faces of Atlas

“Everything I know about my life is full of anecdotal unexpected turns. Within the past four years I’ve obtained a B.A in Psychology and Master’s in Administration Organizational Development, as well as working abroad in the People’s Republic of China. All of which are products of a few risks I took with the support of my family. I come from hardworking parents who have provided the best for their ten children.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas I didn’t grow up with wealth in terms of money, but I was blessed with wealth in love and support. HIV/AIDS has been around in my life for as far back as I can remember. My parents took in one of my best friends who grew up in and out of foster homes and was infected early on in his life. It was this past year in which I lost him and another dear friend to this disease. I had volunteered with city programs prior to the loss of my friends but I never truly understood what it was like to lose someone to HIV/AIDS. As a new resident here in Boulder, CO I chose to be an Atlas member to make long lasting connections with others who enjoy doing good for their communities.”

“Communities like Atlas reinforce the importance of creating a world in which we can communicate honestly with one another about who we are. As an Executive Director of Out Boulder, I think it is critical that we work together from different agencies for a sex positive culture. I think it’s important to realize that making safe choices is sexy.”

“Born and raised in Southern CA, the summation of my character would have to be that of an American Muscle Car, similar to that of a Corvette. I have a passion for the mechanics of all things, from the materialistic to the medicinal. Along with the support of my family and friends, I’m currently following an educational path to a career in the medical field. Along with my stamina for learning, I very much enjoy this ambitious path.”

“I’m a Boulder native and have always had a connection with animals, especially dogs. I’ve lived in Southern California where I attended California Institute of Performing Arts. I’ve been a volunteer for BCAP since the agency opened its doors. My love for performance arts and HIV prevention keep me involved with Atlas. It gives me a sense of gratitude and appreciation of the diverse human experience. I love to make people feel something. Knowing, that the HIV epidemic is far from over, HIV prevention is important to me.”

I grew up all over the country and made my way to Boulder for college. From the time I was three-months-old, I was titled by my family “the Gypsy Baby.” So, I am excited to finally settle in Boulder, make a home here, and build lasting friendships. When I’m not spending my time in the world of HIV prevention, I love to take hikes in the mountains until I find the quietest place possible, go on hot dates with my husband, or just get coffee with friends. I have volunteered with BCAP for the past three years and I am very excited to be on board as the new Community Outreach Coordinator. I am ready to dive deeper into Atlas and all that this program offers BCAP and the community as stable source of HIV prevention and peer education.

“Born in Cuernavaca Mexico, I was lucky enough to be brought to the United States as a small baby to my new home town: Boulder, Colorado. I grew up in Boulder and have been here long enough to consider myself as close to a native Boulderite as possible. Having trained as a dancer and circus performer, I have done my best to incorporate my art into spreading the awareness of HIV to the community through Atlas drag and variety shows. Performing is how I first became a part of the Atlas program, and I couldn't possibly think of a better and more knowledgeable group to volunteer.”

“I was born and raised in a small mountain town in the center of Colorado. I’m usually in a white hat and rarely not smiling. Since coming to the ‘big city’ (yes, Denver is a big city to me), I have gained a great community and have some amazing experiences. For the past four years, medical school has dominated my life, but I refuse to let it take away the most important things in my life—friends, my family, my partner, and of course, Atlas.”

“I may have been born in Texas, but having lived in Colorado for ten years, I’m happy to consider this my home. I am a through and through theatre kid from a small town who has a passion for helping people in any way possible. My philosophy is that everyone has a story that is worth listening to and I love to listen. My passion for performance arts makes for a fun-filled life that I love to share with people. There is rarely a dull moment when I’m around.”

“My mom said that I was born a caulbearer, which in the Philippines is a sign of good luck.  And so far, I’ve been lucky enough to have witnessed both the turn of the 21st century and the turn of the second millennium—and I’m only in my early 20’s. Having moved from Manila to Denver at the cusp of my teen years, I’ve become a hybrid of two worlds. I speak three languages so far: Tagalog, English, and Spanish. I’ve also been lucky enough to have fallen in love with journalism when I was just ten years old. A little more than a decade later, I’m still pursuing a fulfilled life as a journalist.”

“I was born and raised in New York and moved to Oklahoma for my junior and senior years of high school. In the summers, I was a camp counselor and learned to love the outdoors. I went to college at Oklahoma State University and became an Electrical Engineer. I then moved to Boulder and got a job with the Department of Commerce. In my spare time, I like to bowl and play tennis.”

“When I was five years old, my uncle died of AIDS. I grew up in a rural community where educational issues of sexuality and safe sex practices did not exist. I am in Atlas to be a member of a community that I never had growing up, a community of mentors and pupils where sexual health knowledge is openly exchanged. I am dedicated to staying HIV negative so that I can provide information, love, and experience to my nieces and nephew. I want to provide them the relationship that HIV/AIDS prevented me from having with my uncle. Atlas has made all the difference in my life. Because of Atlas, I am more loving and open-minded toward all people, I have made lots of lasting relationships, and I know my HIV status.”

“When I arrived in Boulder, I wanted to make an immediate difference in the community. I spent several years training to be a molecular biologist and despite ongoing scientific efforts to eradicate HIV, community awareness and prevention advocacy remain our best weapons against the spread of HIV. Through BCAP and Atlas, I have a voice to educate and inspire.”

“Born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, I moved to Colorado in 1998 and fell in love with the mountains. I am loved by a strong sense of community and family. I am proud to be a part of BCAP and Atlas! I believe a lot can be accomplished with a really good heartfelt hug!”

“I grew up in Columbus, Ohio where I got addicted to musicals, became an Eagle Scout, and ventured into life as an actor. I moved to Boulder to attend graduate school at Naropa University and soon after got involved with Atlas. Being a part of the community I live in helps to ground me and through my willingness to let go and open up I am able to help others. Every day I marvel at the beauty of the mountains which remind me that I am a warrior wading through life trying to understand what it is to live and love."

“I rock the Boulder adventure lifestyle as a year-round bike commuter, road and mountain biker, trail runner, backpacker, Nordic and back country skier, and snowboarder. I’m addicted to the arid American West. My energetic personality and drive to build and strengthen community come in handy when volunteering, amping the crowd as a DJ, and traveling the world. I have worked and studied in three countries and speak five languages. I graduated from CU Boulder in 2001 in Environmental Studies and have worked mostly in Education.”

“Raised on the east coast, I followed my calling to move to Colorado in 2008. My own journey of self discovery led me to support others in overcoming fears, stress, and relationship conflicts as a facilitator of the work of Bryon Katie – a simple, yet powerful, process of self realization. I begin volunteering with Atlas in 2009 with a desire to share my talents with the gay community and support those living with HIV. I also enjoy concerts, live theatre, outdoors, traveling the world, roller coasters, and spending time with my two dogs.”

“Growing up in El Paso, Texas, I was fortunate enough to experience different cultures and perspectives. This awareness has prompted me to understand and appreciate different beliefs, experiences, and values as intricate components of the awesome journey known as “life.”

I have been living in Boulder for a little over a year as a full-time graduate student and instructor at The University of Colorado. My friends and family members constantly serve as a source of inspiration and support as I work towards accomplishing my goals. I view Atlas as an extension of my fundamental commitment to social justice, activism, and community service. When I’m not busy being a full-time nerd, I enjoy travel, cooking, movies, reading, and coaching speech and debate teams.”

“As a CU grad, Boulder will always hold a special place in my heart. BCAP and Atlas allow me to stay a part of the community and help keep me mindful of sexual health and the role it plays in my life. I enjoy spending time with friends, playing flag football, and embarrassing myself for the amusement of others.”

“I was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia. I am a recent transplant to Boulder, and my quality of life has improved in just about every metric in which you can measure quality of life. I am currently a graduate student at Naropa studying counseling psychology. I have been a hypnotherapist for the past few years and really enjoy using it as a healing modality. I thrive on being eccentric and believe myself to be one of the luckiest people I know. I am really looking forward to working and learning from Atlas.”

“Raised in the neighborly, rural town of Pagosa Springs, CO, I was brought up with a strong sense of community and responsibility toward my community. Alongside BCAP and Atlas, I have found a meaningful purpose. My relationships with Atlas volunteers inspire and fuel my motivation, creativity, and endurance in establishing HIV prevention services and promoting HIV awareness. I am cared for by my partner, puppies, and close friends--who daily remind me of everything most important.”

Learn more about the Atlas Program's dedicated staff.

“Born in the country of Israel and raised in Arvada, CO, I grew up speaking two languages and enjoying the love of both Mediterranean and American cuisine. I have always been surrounded by incredible friends and family members, yet it was not until moving to Boulder for my undergraduate studies that I felt comfortable talking about my sexuality. Beginning my involvement with BCAP as a sophomore in college, I wanted to ensure my peers felt comfortable talking about sex and knew how to make healthy choices. I am one of the founding members of the Atlas program in 2006, when I began having peer-to-peer conversations and meeting regularly with a group of men in the community. I have been an HIV tester at both CU and BCAP where I went on to be a full-time staff member. I love to laugh, enjoy traveling, and am constantly reminded of the great potential in our lives. You can find me hiking on a mountain, dancing in a club—or soon to be frolicking in the cornfields of Iowa!”

"Born and raised in Chicago, I spent the first seventeen years of my life living in the midwest. I moved to Boulder in 2006 for college and graduated with a BA in Studio Arts and Art History.  Having spent the last year and a half traveling, I am proud to have Boulder as my home base. Developing a strong support system and building life long friendships has been a crucial part of my experience. I am honored to be a part of Atlas and help give back to a community that has provided me with so much."

I was born in Mexico and migrated to the US about ten years ago. My life path moves around my job and training to compete in triathlons. I enjoy meeting people, building strong personal and community relationships. Within BCAP and Atlas, I have found a community of individuals committed to HIV prevention and care. I’ve been trained as an HIV Test Counselor and I love this volunteer role. I feel proud to be part of this work.

“I am a Boulder Native and recently have returned to my homeland after an eight year stint in Los Angeles. I am a Rockstar at heart and have always sought to educate, provoke, and inspire through my music. Atlas seemed like a great place to do this. I am a big proponent for the strength and power of community created by Atlas and the good work and deeds of the talented volunteers.”

“Born in Texas, I fancy the bigger challenges in life. I received my education at CU Boulder in engineering. Currently I am working on solving the social issue of finding a clean renewable source of energy. Like the challenge of finding a sustainable source of energy, I believe it’s equally important to address the social challenge of HIV/AIDS within the gay community. Being a part of Atlas is my way of contributing to a future where HIV transmission is rare.”

“I somehow ended up on this planet and was raised by two humans who did not know much about what was going on about life. After some time, I realized that this was not unusual and I became interested in figuring out the meaning of existence and how this whole thing works. So, when I was 13, I started my existential quest, which, three years ago brought me here to Boulder. People describe me as very loving, intense, serious, intellectual, and sensitive… an introverted person with a kind soul who is in love with people and loves to contemplate.”

“I was born and raised in the "Windy City." Leaving Chicago to pursue an education at the University of Colorado has been the best decision I have made. I feel lucky to have met such inspiring and supportive people here in Boulder and I am proud to call Colorado my new home! Outside of academia and volunteer work, I find joy spending my time with family and friends. I enjoy most movies from romantic comedies to edge of your seat thrillers. I also like to cut loose on the dance floor and may occasionally be spotted at the clubs attempting to shake a leg on the weekends. I look forward to continuing my work with Atlas to help create a future where HIV transmission is rare!”

“I am just now getting used to calling Boulder my home. Born and raised in Kensington, MD, this is the first time I have lived on my own for an extensive period of time. I am passionate for traveling, learning about other cultures, enjoying food, relaxing outdoors, watching films, and playing the piano. Currently I am a devoted student at CU Boulder studying psychology and French. Atlas has introduced me to a new side of Boulder that has inspired me to embrace our community.”

"I was born in Colorado Springs and raised in Pueblo where I spent 18 long years of my life. I came to Boulder to attend CU in 2007 and have been loving it. I am studying Studio Arts with a focus in Photography. I love art and music and absolutely love talking about music and trading it. I am super excited to join Atlas and am ready to get involved."

“I enjoy performing throughout the community. Bringing the community together for a great cause is very rewarding. Hanging out with friends and being a part of such an amazing group is what keeps me going. I’m looking forward to many more years of service.”

"Having grown up on a farm about an hour south of Pittsburgh, PA, surrounded by my extended Hungarian family, my connection to community and roots has been lifelong. My professional work as a fundraiser, marketer, and event director have helped me personally build a community that has since become my adult family. Atlas’ emphasis as a peer support group embodies that creation of community that is so vital to me, professionally and personally. In addition to my Hungarian heritage, some things that excite me include history, coordinating dinner parties, American muscle cars, classic movies, and music."

"Currently, I work as the Community Outreach Coordinator for BCAP. Through my position at BCAP and as a volunteer for the Atlas program, I have become increasingly connected to the mission of HIV prevention and the work that we set out to do. Furthermore, I am able to surround myself with talented, passionate, and inspiring individuals who also are taking a stand to end HIV/AIDS in our community. Through my time with BCAP and Atlas, I’ve been able to build relationships and foster friendships with people who serve as a constant reminder and source of motivation as we continue working alongside HIV prevention efforts.”

Learn more about the Atlas Program's dedicated staff.

“Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, I’ve always believed in the Socratic saying: ‘An unexamined life isn’t worth living.’ I’m the proud father of three kitties and the partner of a successful gay man. I’m an integrated artist with a B.F.A. from the University of Colorado. Working as a volunteer at BCAP and Atlas has opened me up to crucial self examinations and relationships with other men I’ll never forget. I plan on continuing this journey of self-discovery. I believe knowledge is power and without it change is impossible.”

“I grew up in Long Island, New York and thereafter went to Stony Brooke University and got my B.S. in Biology and Cardio Respiratory Sciences. I moved to New York City working as a respiratory therapist and thereafter moved in to medical advertising until moving to Colorado to pursue my M.B.A. in 2005. Currently I am on staff at Boulder Community Hospital and have decided to stay here with my BCAP family and make this my home.”

“I moved to Boulder in 2009 to start graduate school and immediately felt at home here.

Growing up in metropolitan Pennsylvania, I lived a somewhat dichotomous life, marked by camping, hiking, and trips to the beach, but also plenty of commerce, influence, and travel from Philly, New York, and D.C. While my personality fits very well with the Colorado lifestyle, I still feel like I’ll always be and East Coast boy at heart. I was also lucky to come from a family and community that heavily emphasized community service.

I started volunteering with Meals-On-Wheels in high school and have been involved in some form of service ever since. I realized that volunteering is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever experienced and for this reason I wish to continue volunteering at BCAP and Atlas for some time. I couldn’t think of a better organization than one that not only helps the LGBTIQ community, but the community at large as well. All in all, aside from this type of service, the things I value above all else are my family, good conversations, meaningful friendships, and genuine actions and intentions.”

“I grew up in a small town in New York State. I’ve learned that community is important to me for support, inspiration, and learning from different perspectives. Atlas is a unique group of men creating healthy, respectful, loving, and inspiring relations. I am honored to play a role in Atlas and intend to give deeply from my heart. My passions direct me to live sustainably so future generations can thrive. I focus my time exploring nature and culinary arts, practicing yoga, building my acupuncture practice, deepening my relationship with my lover, and caring for our cats and garden. I strive to help and support my community with the healing modalities of acupuncture, yoga, and culinary arts. I live by these words, ‘Love deeply, live boldly, and harvest the fruits of your dedication.’”

"I’m a Colorado native that has moved eight times before finally settling into Boulder for my undergraduate degree. I am obsessed with anything and everything medical, and I’m eagerly in pursuit of becoming a doctor. I have an undying curiosity for the human body. When I’m not parading around my house in scrubs, I love learning new things (like French!), reading my favorite books over and over, pretending to be really good at piano, and enjoying life with my friends."

“Born in Rhode Island, I grew up five minutes from the ocean and, although I love the mountains, my heart will always be with the sea. I’ve studied the martial arts since I was five years old and its practice has guided my interests, my education, and my approach to life. I consider myself a peaceful warrior who seeks to bring compassion and humor to the difficulties of life and human relationships—and revel in the challenges of love.  As stated in A Course in Miracles: ‘Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.’”

“It’s always been in my nature to run with a pack. Atlas is no exception. Shoulder to shoulder, part of the fight against HIV. Working alongside my peers makes me feel at home. Speaking of home, I grew up living “the good life” in Nebraska, later studying business and information systems at the University of Nebraska. I fuel my body with energy through music, acting, dreaming, and riding my Harley.”

“Family has always been an important part of me. They give me the confidence in all I try to achieve. Because of this, I have always had a strong sense of self. I feel that it is important to figure out who you are before you can figure out what you want to do. BCAP and the Atlas program have been integral in my personal growth for the past three years. The skills that Atlas teaches us in HIV education, awareness, and prevention can be applied on such a broad spectrum of issues. My experiences in Atlas have taught me what it means to be successful in life before, during, and after any experience. BCAP and Atlas are many sparkles in my life.”

“As a journalism student at the University of Colorado at Boulder, it was my belief in the power of knowledge that drew me to join BCAP and the Atlas family. Professionally, I aspire to improve fashion worldwide. As a volunteer, I'm reassured to know that my current volunteer work with this program will benefit those battling HIV and help some divert living with this disease. My personal motto for Atlas is that, while trends may come and go--HIV transmission is not in fashion.”

“I am a student and enjoy learning. I am a curious and compassionate person. I am a gay Latino man, although I am not limited by these labels.”

“Being from a multicultural family, I have always valued and loved diversity. Growing up in other countries such as Korea, Germany, and Italy, I adore how the world can be as common as a sneeze or as different as a blossom. I enjoy various activities ranging from writing and singing to rock climbing and martial arts. I view myself as a jack of all trades.”

“In 2006, I moved from Indiana to Boulder to attend the University of Colorado. I currently study evolutionary biology, ecology, and economics. Shortly after I moved to Boulder, I was introduced to Atlas, a program which has deeply impacted my life. Atlas provided a sense of community which empowered me to start a guerilla gay bar network, Prop Gay, to help build and strengthen the GLBT community. Additionally, I am an avid cook, a mountain recreation enthusiast, and a passionate scuba and springboard diver.”

“After getting infected with HIV about 7-years ago, it became part of my life purpose to inspire a change in our culture that would reduce the spread of HIV. After living all over the United States, I'm happy to be in Boulder attending Naropa University, refining my knowledge of psychology and learning how to create and sustain a social movement to support this vision.

I am 36-years old, born in Mexico City, raised in San Luis Potosi and lucky to have traveled all over the world. I am thrilled to be a member of Atlas and join a great group of guys and girls who are working together toward a future free of HIV. I am dedicated to ending the stigma attached to the virus and hope that my commitment to transparency and being willing to disclose will inspire more of my companions to do the same.

It is only through loving ourselves and one another that we'll see an end to the spread of HIV. Please get tested: it's sexy and it's wise to know.”

“I grew up in a small town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, by the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, taking a far-reaching and sometimes winding path to finally end up in Boulder. An environmentalist, outdoorsman, and politics buff, I study and work in the politics and policy of global climate change at Boulder's National Center for Atmospheric Research and the University of Colorado. HIV prevention and education have grown into a life cause of mine, starting in my years as an undergraduate when I helped launch a chapter of the Student Global AIDS Campaign at Williams College. Following college, I volunteered in a two-year long HIV vaccine trial at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD. I lived for six months in Cape Town, South Africa in order to volunteer for a program called Mothers 2 Mothers. This program empowered HIV-positive mothers and mothers-to-be in the impoverished townships to lead healthy lives. Today, I am proud to be a BCAP and Atlas volunteer, a trained HIV test counselor, and an openly gay man--living in one of the most beautiful and special places on Earth.”

“After spending many years as a child moving all over the country, I finally found a loving home with my partner in Denver. My commitment to Atlas has stemmed from the strong support it provided me through many challenges in life. As a part time father in a homosexual relationship, Atlas has provided me a sense of community of which I can feel proud. The education and opportunities to promote HIV prevention awareness has given me a voice for my passion to see a future where HIV is rare.”

"Born and raised in Minatare, Nebraska, I am an adventurous, jovial, and friendly personality.  I recently enrolled at Colorado Technical University attaining a B.S. in Business and Marketing. I also enjoy spending time with friends, working out, and traveling. I am excited to be part of the BCAP community, as it has been a place to connect with members of the GLBT family and has been fundamental to my personal growth."

“Born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado, I moved to Boulder to study psychology and Spanish at CU. I’m passionate about working with people, and interested in gender and sexuality issues. I currently work as a research assistant at CU, evaluating a non-profit organization, Judy’s House, which offers support groups to families who have experienced death loss. I like to hike, cook, play the guitar, and spend time with friends.”

“I was born on the same day as Harvey Milk and feel I have great footsteps to follow. My biggest heroes are my father and Mauricio Shoup, my best friend. My blood is Greek, Serbian, Sioux, and Irish and I was raised an only child to an Orthodox family in Salt Lake City, Utah.

I feel my life purpose is to echo Bayard Rustin, as he did for the African-American Community, and help gay men find their voices and build a community where it is safe to love each other, starting with oneself. I joined Atlas to be of service, sharing my passion and purpose with MSM and people living with HIV. I want to see a world free of HIV and other diseases, such as ignorance and self-hate.”

“I was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland with a brother and single mother. My family is my heart, my foundation, and my security. I strive to live a life of compassion toward all those I encounter.

A year ago, I took a trip to Africa and fell in love with the people and its many cultures. In one of my home stays, I lived with a family who struggled with the hardships of living with HIV. Because of this experience, I was drawn to BCAP and the Atlas community to help make a change within my own country. I am a Buddhist, loving friend, gentle spirit, and tender heart who strives to live these values in my daily life.”

“Born and raised here in Colorado, I feel blessed to live in a beautiful, unique area.  I love playing outdoors and giving back to the community I'm fortunate to be a part of. Currently, I'm working towards my degree at the University of Colorado with the hope of continuing my involvement with non-profits post graduation.”

“I am a native of Colorado and the fifth generation to grow up on a cattle ranch.  After graduating from Tufts University in Massachusetts, I returned to Colorado to initially work in law, a political campaign, and consulting. I joined New Era Colorado Foundation in 2009 to assist in their fundraising efforts. I am an active volunteer for several local organizations, including Boulder County AIDS Project and SAME Cafe.”

“I am a graduate of the Masters Program in Writing & Poetics at the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics, Naropa University in Boulder. I am originally from Newport, RI and have lived in Boulder for five years, dreaming of the sea.”

“A native to Evergreen, CO, I grew up hiking, biking, camping in the mountains, and enjoying the large wild life population. I moved to Boulder for college and have no desire to leave, even years after graduation. Currently I have my EMT license and am pursuing various paths of a medical career. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends, riding my motorcycle, watching movies, attending concerts, and getting out into the nature of Colorado.”

“Adopted at one month old, I’ve traveled all over as part of an Air Force family. Thirteen moves later, I find myself in Denver in a career I love, doing training and employee development. Outside of work, I continue to develop my passion for language, culinary arts, music, photography, and web/print design. My best times include good friends, good food, and good conversation.”

“A ‘global nomad’ until about the age of 25, I have spent the past 20 years of my life in Boulder. My father was a US diplomat and I was born while he was posted in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa. We then moved as a very large family every two to four years, living in Tanzania, Washington D.C., Togo, and Australia. I always loved to move – to experience new places and people, and learn new languages.

After four years of high school in New Hampshire, I moved to Montreal to study African studies. Then, I was off to Mali for two years as a Peace Corps volunteer, and thereafter, I had a year of travel in Asia where I met the man I married. We then deliberately moved to Boulder. We are both fortunate to have work we love. BCAP is probably what keeps me from moving to somewhere else. I am in love with the BCAP community, because the people are real. I feel my thirteen year old son’s life is enriched by our BCAP friendships.”

Learn more about the Atlas Program's dedicated staff.

“I'm a Colorado near-native, and with the exception of college on the East Coast and a short stint in central France, I've lived here for most of my life. I moved to Boulder in 2008 and began graduate school in counseling psychology at Naropa University in 2009. I'm passionate about sexual health and education, open-mindedness, personal growth, healthy eating, spirituality, and community. I enjoy swimming, reading, cooking and NIA. I'm proud to be a part of such as a prominent and effective AIDS service organization as BCAP!”

“Born and raised in San Diego, I made my way to CU-Boulder in pursuit of my degree in Marketing—and to find myself. Brought up in a predominately Italian household with five other family members, I have learned to be a supportive, caring, and a strong person. Family, friends, and the bonds that we create are what I hold as most important in my life. I am a lover of photography and cooking, as well as a movie buff. I am filled with random facts and memories. I am a great listener, easy to get along with, and always looking to try new and exciting things.”

“I was born and raised in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Growing up my life revolved around family and the outdoors. Atlas gave me a sense of family out here in CO, something I have been looking for since I moved here. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors with my dog or spending time with friends.”

“I was born and raised in the small town of Gunnison, CO, where my family has had strong ties for the better part of the century. I moved to Boulder to attend CU as an Integrative Physiology and Sociology double major. My plan is to eventually work my way towards social epidemiology, which is part of the reason I was attracted to Atlas. I also have a passion for the arts, particularly music, photography, and culinary.”

“I’m Boulder born, but grew up in Fort Collins. The front-range has been my home for 22 years. I consider myself a Colorado-boy; I was raised on skis in the winter and backpacking with my family in the summer. Now I happily live in Boulder, studying Urban Planning at CU. My ‘turn ons’ include: bikes, buses, public transportation, running, and yoga. I cherish the Atlas community that I have been a part of for about two years. My family has been deeply affected by HIV, with two of my loved ones living with HIV. This has given me a sense of purpose in HIV prevention.”

“People think they know me, but they don’t know me. Except for those who do! I am from Charleston, South Carolina, and nothing is more beautiful than watching a meteor shower on the beach at night. Though I miss my friends and family back on my sea island home, I compensate by cooking amazing things here. I have tried to integrate myself into this alien Rocky Mountain culture, so I have taken up queer square dancing and get twirled around at least once a week. I know how to laugh at myself and the world. I also remember my dreams when I awaken. I love to read! I enjoy the sun and running water, travel, and sex talk.”

“Born in Boulder Community Hospital, I've grown up an adventurer in life with a thick graphic design streak. A committed home improvement weekend-warrior, I’m as comfortable with an angle grinder as I am with my Wacom tablet. I also happen to be a joyful cook and host who delights in evenings with good food, great wine, and extraordinary friends. I relish words and concepts like redemption, justice, and hope.”

“My travels in life and the world have and continue to define who I am. Being a learner at heart, I’ve been blessed to grow and learn with every place I go and every person I meet. The amazing people of Atlas and BCAP have shown me how to make a positive impact on HIV prevention and within my community, while fostering my own fulfillment and growth. I have many different sides: learner, warrior, dancer, linguist, lover, and friend. Every side of me feels welcomed at Atlas.”

“I am a student of the University of Colorado at Boulder and will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Literature with minors in Women and Gender Studies and Leadership in December of 2011. I always have been passionate about sexual health and positive relationship development, but my work with BCAP has really allowed me to discover another facet of community health. I am astounded by all of those who are involved with BCAP, at every level, and my experiences working in the HIV Prevention Department truly have changed the course of my future. After graduating, I plan to pursue a career in nursing, specializing in community health and international nursing. It is my hope that such a career will allow me to develop further my passion, skill set, and scope of influence in creating a world where HIV transmission is rare, as said by the Atlas mission statement.”

“I enjoy bringing my experience as a long term HIV thriver and BCAP client to this new generation of HIV care and prevention. I combine working event intermissions in drag and providing expert piano accompaniment to my many Atlas friends.”

“As the youngest of six children, I grew up in a household of ever changing dynamics. I’ve been on a continual journey to find the difference between existing and living. I love taking a moment out of the day and truly look at everything around me – smiles, scowls, life in progress… Life too often passes me by. As an individual and a student, I’m motivated for the pursuit of knowledge. I adore languages and linguistics, advertising and design, and most importantly science and research. Working to find answers drives me forward.” 

“As a native of Boulder, I have always had a commitment to the environment and preserving it for future generations. Growing up in a small, rural community has always been an important part of my life. Improving the lives of those around is one of my main life goals. As a political science graduate from CU, I have seen the possibility to improve society through the legislative process. I hope to pursue a career in politics where I can fight for equal rights and improvements to health care, including increasing funding for HIV/AIDS research and developing better awareness and prevention programs in schools. BCAP and Atlas have taught me a lot about the major role HIV plays in society and I’m thrilled to be involved with their initiatives as I work toward my future goals in politics and bettering the world.”

“Colorado has been my home my entire life and seeking social justice for all Coloradans has been my passion since I was 13. I am in awe by the hard work and compassion of all my brothers and sister in Atlas and am glad to have them by my side in the quest for a more equitable world."

“I grew up in Boulder and have been a huge supporter of HIV/AIDS prevention through outreach education for more than two decades. My son, Matty Beautiful, and I began volunteering with BCAP and Atlas regularly about five years ago. I believe educating the public on HIV/AIDS awareness and empowering people with self-respect and self-love are equally important in decreasing HIV. BCAP and Atlas are important local programs to help provide education and prevention resources. I am proud to unite with such an incredible group of people!”

“A Colorado Native, I feel blessed to have grown up with incredibly supportive and open-minded parents in the midst of a conservative suburban community. A childhood full of family camping trips to Yellowstone, CA and throughout the southwest instilled a deeps sense of stewardship for the natural world. My parents’ tireless devotion to serving others ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. I’m a Spanish-speaker, an environmentalist, an outdoor enthusiast, an HIV/AIDS activist, a liberation theologian, an artist, and a medical student – working to secure health as a human right.”

“After I was born in Seattle, WA, my family decided to move to a small town in Alaska called Palmer (population 4,000). Growing up in Alaska instilled a sense of adventure, an awe for nature, and an appreciation for close-knit community. I attended a small liberal arts college in Tacoma, WA and then moved to Boulder in 2009 to be with my partner. Life is good! I have a job that I enjoy at an education non-profit organization in Denver. I live in a beautiful town, surrounded by Colorado’s beauty. I have found a great group of advocates, with whom I have the opportunity to volunteer with at Atlas.”