Shining a light on AIDS
<p>Amy Dreps, right, was recently selected to serve as the executive director of the North Idaho AIDS Coalition alongside care case manager for the agency Stacie Lechot.</p>
COEUR d'ALENE - Care, prevention, advocacy.
Those are the big three for Amy Dreps as the new executive director of the North Idaho AIDS Coalition.
"It's all about really working with folks not just infected with HIV, but affected by it," she said Tuesday.
Dreps came on with the coalition after seven years with the Disability Action Center, when grants that supported her role ran out.
"I really enjoy working with the nonprofit sector," she said. "It's very similar to the DAC. It's all about advocacy."
She said there are about 140 people with HIV/AIDS in Idaho's five northern counties. About 25 percent of the population "has no clue they are infected. Screening detection saves lives."
NIAC, which has an annual budget of roughly $100,000, has about 55 clients who are assisted with medical transportation, medication, case management and housing.
The nonprofit is supported by grants and donations.
Once she's settled in, Dreps plans to visit with community groups and give presentations about HIV/AIDS.
"We need to get out there and talk to a lot more people," she said.
Dreps has a bachelor of science degree in business administration from San Diego State University. Later, she was employed as the project assistant of an AIDS risk reduction program funded by the Centers for Disease Control.
Her career with nonprofits includes stints with Opportunities Unlimited in Moscow, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill and the Salvation Army.
Dreps, who lives in Coeur d'Alene with husband Josef, said she's no stranger to disabilities after being injured in an automobile accident. She said her recovery will help in working with HIV positive and AIDS clients, along with NIAC case manager Stacie Lechot.
She said while she's strong in administration, she enjoys doing her best for clients.
"I always like the direct service with people," she said.
Confidential HIV testing and many other services are available free of charge for anyone at risk of HIV by calling the local Coeur d'Alene office at (208) 665-1448, or toll-free (866) 609-1774. In addition, NIAC provides general HIV education activities.