To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444, Ext. 234
or email us n.meeks@njcri.org
Project WOW is an extraordinary initiative that stands as a beacon of support and empowerment for LGBTQ+ youth, between the ages of 13 and 24. Through a comprehensive range of services we're able to enhance the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, fostering a sense of belonging within our community.
Our program offers individual & group counseling, LGBTQ+ skill building, safe sex kits, gender-affirming therapy, transitional housing assistance, and more. If you or someone you know could benefit from the transformative impact of Project Wow, connect with us today.
Call Us 973-483-3444
NJCRI’s Pride Center of Newark stands as a vibrant and dynamic haven for adults, aged 25 and over. As an active and creative space, our center provides a nurturing environment where individuals can find solace and support while exploring their identities.
In addition to medical and counseling services, The Pride Center buzzes with drop-in activities and cultural events, fostering opportunities for connection and camaraderie. If you're seeking a welcoming community that supports your journey and celebrates your uniqueness, we warmly invite you to join us at The Pride Center of Newark.
To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444
Our Support Services program focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by youth and their families. It provides mental health support, harm reduction strategies, and wraparound services designed to reduce stigma, strengthen family relationships, and promote acceptance.
Call Us 973-483-3444
The Healthy Transitions Program supports young people aged 16-25 in developing strategies to maintain great mental health while navigating the challenges of adulthood.
The program offers culturally and developmentally appropriate services, including counseling, skill-building, and access to resources. Its goal is to enhance emotional well-being, promote independence, and equip participants with the tools to achieve fulfilling lives.
To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444, Ext. 200
Our comprehensive HIV & STI screening services are designed to ensure early detection, prompt treatment, and prevention of the spread of infection. We offer confidential and compassionate testing, providing a safe space for individuals to take charge of their sexual health.
We stand as allies in promoting sexual health and creating a more informed and empowered community. Contact or email us today to schedule your screening.
To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444, Ext. 234
Our Empowerment Programs are at the forefront of fostering a stronger, more resilient community. Through a range of outreach services, we empower individuals with valuable resources and support.
Our Men's Mpowerment Group provides an inclusive space for men to share experiences and build meaningful connections, while our Dress to Success initiative promotes self-confidence and self-expression through clothing choices. If you are seeking a supportive community that embraces and elevates, call or email us today.
To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444, Ext. 247
Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and compassionate community includes our responsibility to gender affirming care.
Our gender-affirming program provides a safe and affirming space for transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals to freely explore their identity. Our team of medical & psychological clinicians are deeply committed to tailoring personalized care that addresses the unique needs and aspirations of each individual. Whether you're ready for hormone therapy, or just looking to talk it out, we'd love to hear from you
To schedule an appointment 973-483-3444, Ext. 200
or email us i.wilson@njcri.org
At NJCRI, your well-being is our top priority, which is why we offer both Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PreP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) treatments to protect individuals at risk of HIV infection.
PreP is a powerful prevention treatment designed to safeguard those who may be exposed to HIV in the future, while PEP is a crucial protection if you've recently been exposed. Take charge of your well-being today, reach out to learn more about PreP and PEP.
Research and Clinical Trials 973-483-3444, Ext. 231
At NJCRI, our commitment to research and clinical trials lies at the very core of our mission. Behavioral Surveillance, Intervention Based Research, Community-Based Participatory Research and Clinical Trials serve as powerful tools in our pursuit of transformative advancements in healthcare.
NJCRI's Research Department collaborates closely with esteemed universities and institutions across the nation, fostering a dynamic network of innovation and knowledge exchange. Through these collaborations, we strive to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and the real-world needs of our diverse community. If you're interested in becoming a participant in our research or a clinical trial, call us today.
The North Jersey Community Research Initiative (NJCRI) is one of New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive HIV/AIDS community-based organization.
Over the past 35 years of service NJCRI has adapted and changed to rally the fight against HIV/AIDS, as well as providing important social services to our community.
In 1988, the initial focus was to provide clinical trials in Newark so those that were infected with the HIV virus could gain access to promising investigational treatments. At that time patients were required to travel to New York to receive these services.
NJCRI was the first AIDS service organization in New Jersey to provide medical care to those with HIV. Our staff have published more than 50 research articles and have presented their research findings at local, national and international AIDS conferences, and expanded to Hepatitis-C prevention work around the globe, as well as innovative endeavors in behavioral health, prevention, food insecurity, gender identity and holistic healthcare.
Christian Mendez-Baez MD, MA works as a Director for HIV/STI Prevention and Educational Services at North Jersey Community Research Initiative (NJCRI), one of the largest and most comprehensive Infectious Diseases and Family Practice Community Based Organization in New Jersey. For over the past 15 years he’s been passionately dedicated to HIV/AIDS, STI and LGBTQIA+ Healthcare working in different roles and settings, developing long and short-term program strategies, overseeing the implementation of services while providing support, leadership and guidance to a motivated and diverse team working across HIV/STI and Hepatitis C Prevention, Care, Treatment and Vaccine Departments coordinating projects and initiatives, integrating a Status Neutral approach in care throughout NJCRI Medical, Behavioral and Social Services. Christian was born and raised in the Dominican Republic where he graduated from Medical School (1999) and Clinical Psychology(2008) from Universidad Iberoamericana (Unibe). During this time he worked for the Dermatology Institute in Santo Domingo and the World Health Organization, tracing, researching and treating leprosy, publishing some of the findings and recommendations.
Certification in Toxicology from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard University School of Medicine (2008) and Masters in Psychotherapy Intervention from Universidad de Salamanca, Spain (2011), combining medical and mental health training working with Intimate Partner Violence, specifically with the perpetrators and LGBTQIA+Community. As a member of this community, he’s an active advocate for equal rights and inclusion, supporting safe spaces that will continue allowing our growth.
