The Genesis Project at Idaho State University provides a resource for sexual health education and a community atmosphere for gay and bisexual men.
The project follows the “Mpowerment” model created by the Center for Disease Control for eliminating or reducing sexual risk behaviors. Social support and personal empowerment are essential parts of the program.
“People who believe they are worth taking care of are more likely to take measures to keep themselves safe,” said Richard Pongratz, adviser to the Genesis Project.
The Genesis Project Space is a safe haven located on the top floor of the ISU Student Health Center. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-7 p.m.
Mpowerment programs are tailored to specific areas and vary for each city and state.
“We are the longest-running and most successful program in a rural community,” said Pongratz.
Like other Mpowerment programs, the Genesis Project follows the CDC’s evidence-based model for HIV prevention. The program is funded by the CDC and the state.
“[The Genesis Project] provides a resource to learn honest, scientifically-based information on how to keep safe from HIV,” said Pongratz.
The students and community members who work for the program have received extensive training to meet state standards for the Mpowerment model.
For ISU students and Pocatello community members, the project provides a safe space and the empowerment to develop positive self-esteem and a source of community support, according to Pongratz.
The Genesis Project has cooperative arrangements with the District 7 and District 8 Health Clinics for HIV testing. Local businesses are also involved in contributing to the project and providing support to the community.
Pongratz said the group aims to vary meetings between direct education about HIV prevention and safe-sex practices with social meetings for support and community building.
“We are consistent with our goals while being respectful of the people around us,” said Pongratz regarding Pocatello’s conservative leanings.