Our History

Health Education Resource Organization, Inc. (HERO) is Baltimore’s oldest and largest private, non-profit, community based HIV/AIDS service organization. HERO was founded in 1983 as an educational resource to combat hysteria surrounding HIV. As epidemic demographics changed, HERO’s programs, staff and Board of Directors responded to meet emerging needs. Programs were added as follows:

In 1983, AIDS Hotline.

In 1984, volunteer buddy program to assist and support groups for HIV-positive individuals.

In 1985, case management, legal services and financial assistance program.

In 1987, first street outreach and prevention education program in Maryland to drug users.

In 1989, Maryland State AIDS Hotline (funded by State/operated by HERO) and a variety of support groups.

In 1991, mental health services for the dually- and triply-diagnosed and prevention outreach/education to adolescents.

In 1991, Drop-In Center to provide meals, activities and networking opportunities for HIV-positive clients, particularly the homeless and disenfranchised.

In 1993, expansion of prevention education, case management and outreach to women, sexual minorities, the homeless and sex workers.

In 1994/5, education and outreach to Hispanic populations.

In 1997, HERO became the lead agency for a large Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) national demonstration grant.

In November 1999, HERO moved its offices to the new Maryland Community Resource Center, which is located at 1734 Maryland Avenue, close to the main railway station and the city’s major bus routes.

In 2000, mobile van outreach and HIV testing and counseling.

In June 2001, HERO opened the doors of the HERO Counseling and Testing site.

In October 2002, HERO Open its HIV Primary Care Clinic

In the future, HERO hopes to expand this facility by providing additional medical services.

In 2003 - 2006, Project Olympus, a youth prevention program for MSM.

In 2007, Project Fabulous – a behavior change group for transgender women.

In 2007, HERO celebrates its 20th annual AIDSWalk.

In 2008, HERO launches two client initiatives – HERO Sweets and HERO Crafts.

In 2008, HERO introduces a new prevention model with a private practice physician in the HERO medical clinic.

In 2008, HERO celebrates its 25th Anniversary with distinguished keynote speaker Joycelyn Eldridge, M.D.

Health Education Resource Organization, Inc. / 1734 Maryland Ave. / Baltimore, MD / 21201 / 410.685.1180