Table 1 Description of prevention interventions

Strengths-based outreach and advocacy

Session 1 Review each of six general areas for youth’s needs and goals: (1) housing needs; (2) health care; (3) food; (4) legal issues, (5) employment and (6) education. An intervention plan will be guided by the initial review and the youth’s goals

Subsequent sessions Continue to address progress towards meeting youth’s goals. There is no limit to number of sessions and frequency will depend on youth’s preferences. Advocates are available 24 h for crises

6 months. (No limit on number of contacts)

HIV prevention

Session 1 Advocate will review AIDS education, assessment of risk, risk reduction and skills practice

Session 2 focuses on sexual assertiveness and practicing negotiation. Role plays are incorporated to allow the youth to practice social competency skills relevant to their life situations

2 sessions throughout the 6 months of intervention

Motivational interviewing

Session 1 Advocate will conduct open-ended MI, to establish therapeutic rapport and elicit client change talk

Session 2 Advocate continues to focus on enhancing intrinsic motivation for change, developing discrepancy, transitioning as appropriate into the negotiation of a change plan and evoking commitment to the plan

2 sessions throughout the 6 months of intervention

Housing

Costs of housing, including security deposit, application fees, rent and utilities for six months are paid on behalf of participant directly to landlords and utility companies at the beginning of each month. Youth are also provided with furniture through the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio

6 months of housing assistance beginning upon youth signing lease