About Our SHINE
Diversity SHINES is our new Sexual Health Information Network and Educational Support program, providing free sexual health and wellbeing services with a whole-person approach.
We SHINE
To create a culturally affirming, stigma-free sexual health treatment and prevention support network with a whole-person or status neutral approach.
Being Status Neutral
A status neutral approach to care means that regardless of STI status, people have access and support to stay healthy.
Confidential HIV & STI Screenings
If you are sexually active, getting screened for HIV and STIs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. We offer FREE confidential HIV and STI screenings every 3rd Monday of the month from 3-7pm performed by certified HIV counselors. Our STI screenings include: syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. By appointment only.
Do you know your status?
We are a community resource here for you! If you have questions about HIV & AIDS or want to know your prevention method options, we have answers! The stigma around HIV and AIDS makes "being in the know" scary, we are all in this together and here at DCVC, we know your status is another tool to living a healthier more informed life. Be in the know!
PrEP & PEP Navigation
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication that people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use.
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) means taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP should be used only in emergency situations and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV.
By appointment only.
Do you know about PrEP?
TRUVADA for PrEP® (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV through sex when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. TRUVADA for PrEP is only for people who are at risk of getting HIV and weigh at least 77 pounds. You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. TRUVADA for PrEP does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.
Diversity Collective is your resource for how to get PrEP, how much it costs, and whether or not you are a good candidate. Contact us for more information!
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT
MPOX Vaccines
MPOX is a rare disease that is caused by infection with MPOX virus. MPOX spreads through prolonged skin-to-skin contact. Taking steps to avoid prolonged skin-to-skin contact can reduce your risk of getting MPOX. The MPOX (Jynneos) vaccine is free and available to individuals at risk for MPOX infection. CDPH recommends that those who may be at risk for MPOX infection be vaccinated against MPOX.
We offer first and second doses during our pop-up clinics.
SHINE With Me Safer Sex Kits
Stop by our Community Resource Center and pick up a free sexual wellness kit including all the tools you need for safer sex: how-to guide, male/female condoms, dental dam, lubricant, and 2 finger cots.
Can’t come into the CRC? We can mail you a kit.
Shining Education
Our SHINES Training Program empowers you to get educated and make informed decisions to live a long and healthy life for you and your partner(s). Together, we’ll have candid conversations on STDs & HIV, destigmatize common misconceptions and learn your options for treatment and preventative care.
We do what we do, because of you.
Diversity Collective of Ventura County is able to help our community because of our incredible network of supporters including sponsors, donors and volunteers. Without you all, we would not exist. If the Diversity Collective has made an impact on your life, or in the life of someone you love, consider supporting our case in whatever way you are able. We sincerely appreciate you.
