The first cases of what came to be known as AIDS were reported by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) on June 5, 1981. Since then, people around the globe - and throughout Northeastern New York - have worked together to overcome obstacles, learn effective ways to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, and provide compassionate caring to those living with or affected by the disease.

To mark the 30th year of the AIDS epidemic, the CDC has developed the "30 Years of HIV/AIDS Online Community." This online community is a place where those who are living with the disease, who are working towards finding a cure, who provide services through community-based organizations like the AIDS Council of Northeastern New York, or who have a loved one who is living with or has succumbed to HIV/AIDS, can come together to share their stories, celebrate milestones in research and treatment, and discuss effective prevention and outreach activities.

Visit the CDC's "30 Years of HIV/AIDS Online Community" website to read inspiring stories about people who are standing up to HIV/AIDS.