This is Kenyatta Parker (she/her), Director of Sexual Health and Wellness, inviting you to get a free HIV test or STI screening at The Center!
San Diego Pride is one of the most joyful and affirming times of the year. It’s an opportunity to celebrate our community, connect with friends, and embrace the freedom to be our authentic selves. As we look back at this year’s incredible Pride weekend, I also want to encourage each one of our community members to prioritize your health.
To help make testing as accessible and convenient as possible, The Center offers HIV testing, STI screenings, and related Sexual Health and Wellness services Monday through Friday through drop-ins and appointments, and on Saturdays by appointment only. For community members with busy work schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or other commitments, weekend appointments provide an additional opportunity to access care in a welcoming and affirming environment.
Over the past two years, we have evaluated how our Saturday services are being used to ensure we are meeting the needs of the community. Our assessment showed that Sexual Health and Wellness services consistently remain the primary reason community members visit The Center on Saturdays. Beginning August 1, The Center will transition our Saturday services to an appointment-based model. Sexual Health and Wellness services, including HIV testing, STI screenings, and PrEP navigation, will continue to be available on Saturdays by appointment only. All other services at The Center will be available Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment for HIV testing or STI screening, or to learn more about The Center’s Sexual Health and Wellness services, visit thecentersd.org or email bethegeneration@thecentersd.org.
As our community’s needs continue to evolve, The Center regularly evaluates how programs and services are delivered to ensure we are providing accessible, impactful support that meets people where they are. This approach allows us to focus staffing and operational resources where community utilization is strongest while maintaining access to essential services.
The Center will continue offering Saturday HIV testing, STI screenings, PrEP navigation, and related Sexual Health and Wellness services through scheduled appointments. Community groups and organizations will also continue to have access to room rentals and meeting space on weekends through established reservation procedures.
Our Sexual Health and Wellness team is committed to creating a space where everyone feels respected and supported, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, relationship status, or testing history. Whether it has been a few months since your last test or several years, we are here to help you take the next step in your health journey.
Testing is quick, confidential, and delivered by a team that understands the unique needs of LGBTQ+ communities. We also provide education, prevention resources, referrals, and support to help you stay informed and healthy throughout the year.
As Pride celebrations come to a close, I invite you to make sexual health part of your post-Pride plan. Schedule an appointment, encourage a friend to do the same, and take advantage of the services available at The Center. Our team is ready to support you every step of the way!
In community,
Kenyatta Parker (she/her)
Director of Sexual Health and Wellness