Beginnings

In 2000, a group of HIV+ men started meeting for coffee and formed a social alternative to the bars. The group would provide drug-and-alcohol-free social activities for its members as a means of networking  and support. With the goal of enhancing the spirit and enhancing  the health and well-being  of HIV positive people in San Diego, a movie night, beach bonfire, volleyball, and other activities were soon added. POZabilities  still meets for coffee twice a week and offers two to three other activities each month and Thanksgiving and Christmas Day potlucks. 

In 2015 POZabilities  became a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit  charity offering social activities and producing  community forums and workshops covering topics of interest to all those affected by HIV. We also offer NeXT, an exercise and nutrition  education  program for HIV positive San Diegans. POZabilities  holds quarterly educational  forums about issues important  to those living with HIV. POZabilities  social activities and other events are open to all those living and aging with HIV and the community at large.  

In 2024 POZabilities  expanded its outreach to become a community for all persons living & thriving with HIV/AIDS to establish connections with others living in San Diego. As POZabilities  continues to provide an environment  that promotes a positive image of people from all walks of life living & thriving with HIV/AIDS, it is recognized that HIV affects all genders. Aspiring to uphold the well established Legacy, Mission & Values of this long standing organization, our direction of forward thinking welcomes engagement & partnerships with all those living with or affected by HIV or supporting the HIV community.  

Let’s Enjoy Life Together!   

Our Mission Statement

POZabilities  is an inclusive volunteer effort to reduce isolation, depression & stigma among individuals in San Diego who are living & thriving with HIV and their supporters through education, outreach & networking.

Our Values

POZabilities  envisions an inclusive HIV+ community where social support is strong, where isolation, HIV prejudice and discrimination are eliminated, and where HIV+ individuals live healthy and fulfilling  lives.

We Aspire To Be

Gender inclusive, forward thinking, collaborative, and willing to engage with the community we serve. Instrumental in efforts to build a community that has the information, support, and mentorship to enable a healthy and supportive environment  for all HIV+ people and supporters in San Diego.

A Local Organization

POZabilities  directs its efforts to all people living with HIV in the City and County of San Diego, specifically to: 

• Provide current information, referrals, and forums on relevant issues in particular, information dealing with health promotion and significant life issues to empower those impacted by HIV/AIDS. 

• To promote a positive, inclusive image of people living with HIV/AIDS, with the aim of eliminating  prejudice, isolation, stigmatization, and discrimination. 

• To maximize our current efforts, we seek to collaborate  with other non-profit organizations that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code providing  support to the HIV+ community. 

• To provide inclusive activities and events for HIV+ individuals in a safe alcohol and drug-free  environment  for the purpose of relieving  isolation and depression.

A 501 ©(3) Nonprofit Charitable organization

• Our Federal EIN is 47-3562551. All donations are appreciated and can be made here or by calling Michael Donovan at 619-241-8538.