HIV Testing
The Catalyst Foundation offers free HIV counseling and testing services at the Bartz-Altadonna Memorial Clinic. Testing services are available M-F, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment. Testing also is conducted in the field for high-risk populations.

Anyone requesting HIV testing will be counseled prior to testing and when receiving results. Pre-test counseling includes conducting a brief risk assessment, discussing methods to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV and/or HCV and assistance in developing a personalized risk reduction plan. Counseling sessions last approximately 15 to 30 minutes depending on the needs of each person.

For an appointment, call 661-948-8559.

The Life Challenge Program: Accepting the challenge to change
Since 1994, The Catalyst Foundation has conducted the Life Challenge Program, an innovative prevention, mentoring and youth employment program serving high-risk, incarcerated teens each year in five northern Los Angeles County probation camps.

Through the Life Challenge Program, health educators provide three-hour prevention workshops to classes of 12 – 20 teens at five different probation camps. The workshops are based on “Street Smart,” an evidence-based HIV prevention intervention endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control.

The exceptional aspect of this program is that it is not just about prevention. Consistent, compassionate interaction with the Life Challenge staff helps these teens learn critically important lessons about personal responsibility and healthy decision-making.