The Lighthouse Project/Teens in Action (T.I.A.)

(previously Mpowerment Project)

The guiding principles of this project are:

  • MSM are very concerned about social pressures and self esteem.
  • Peer influences are strong among MSM.
  • Healthy relationships are important among MSM.
  • Empowerment promotes more lasting changes in behavior.
  • Community-wide change occurs through interpersonal networks.
  • There are positive messages about MSM that can and should be communicated.

Housekeepers:

Housekeepers are gay/bisexual men ages 18-29 who commit to promoting the principles of The Lighthouse Project/T.I.A. in the Kansas City, Missouri, community, abide by the code of ethics, and fulfill the expectations and responsibilities of the Housekeeper role in the project.

Housekeepers frequent the places gay/bisexual men gather, have literature as well as safer-sex messages and condoms to hand out, and have current knowledge of safer sex practices and other important information to foster communication.

Housekeeper Code of Ethics: to uphold the principles of the The Lighthouse Project/T.I.A., further the message of safer-sex to the young gay/bisexual members of the Kansas City, Missouri, community, and encourage others to self identify as “housekeepers.”

 

Housekeeper Expectations and Responsibilities:

  • embrace and practice the principles of safer sex.
  • frequent businesses in the Kansas City, Missouri, community where gay/bisexual men gather, including social organizations, bars, "the stroll" and coffee houses.
  • promote safer sex by handing out literature and condoms as well as sharing current and accurate information.
  • disseminate The Lighthouse Project/T.I.A. literature in the Kansas City, Missouri area only.
  • encourage others to join The Lighthouse Project/T.I.A. social activities where the guiding principles are practiced and encouraged.
  • serve as peer leaders in the community and mentor others.
  • support other Housekeepers.
  • present a ‘cool and hip’ professional image and encourage others to self identify as housekeepers.
  • when representing The Lighthouse Project/T.I.A. and when in Housekeeper wear/gear
    • Not use alcohol or smoke.
    • Not use illegal or illicit drugs.
    • Not cruise.

Note: Based on Mpowerment Project, 2002, center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Centers for Disease Control

 

For more information, contact
Thomas Blissett, Prevention Specialist
Direct line: 816.777.2753
Fax: 816.777.2797
thomasb@kcfree.org