ORGANIZATION ON AIDS SETS MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

The Southeast Missouri Effort for AIDS organization has embarked on a membership drive.

"This is the first official membership drive following the reorganization of this group," said Bob Beodeker, the group's president.

The organization is hoping to fulfill several goals with the membership drive.

"We would like to increase connections with corporations and individuals who have the potential to provide information and/or services about AIDS and HIV, as well as those individuals living with HIV and AIDS.

"We would like to get more support from the medical facilities as well as the public school systems, churches and community service organizations," he said.

"Schools could help by educating people and heightening their awareness about AIDS and HIV," he said.

"Churches are support providers. They interact with AIDS patients and help them on a more emotional level. With all of us working together, we can better help these AIDS patients and their families."

The membership fee for corporations is $20. Individuals are asked to make a $5 donation, but it is not required for membership.

For more information, contact Stephen Skalsky, community relations chairman, at (314) 472-5222.