For decades, UAB CFAR has partnered with community organizations throughout Alabama as the gatekeepers to the people our research aims to serve and the leadership that facilitates research studies. We approach each partnership with the goal of building and strengthening trust and forging a relationship to stand the test of time.

CFAR Community Coalition

Led by Ms. Harriette Reed-Pickens, the Coalition aims to unite community partners and CFAR investigators for HIV research through bi-directional communication. Formed in 2022-2023, it replaces the community advisory board. The objective is to support HIV-related research and engage the community to build a bridge between researchers and community members, ensuring all voices are heard in the fight to End the HIV Epidemic.

The CFAR Community Coalition is housed within the CFAR Administrative Core, consisting of fourteen community organizations across the state of Alabama. We meet regularly to develop and sponsor activities that engage community-based organizations, administrative service organizations, people with HIV, and CFAR investigators to share best practices for conducting research and conduct trainings. Our Community Coalition has been instrumental in providing research guidance to CFAR investigators and maximizing opportunities for community-engaged research by providing the following support:
-Letters of support for grant applications 
-Feedback on community-based research proposals 
-Consultation services to develop community-based research ideas
-Connecting researchers with the community and/or community-based organizations
-Educational sessions, including serving on panels or as experts and as focus groups for projects

To engage the CFAR Community Coalition, contact Ms. Reed-Pickens to submit a service request form.