Dear HIVCO Supporter,

The Boards of Directors of HIVCO, Community Response, and Open Hand Chicago are proud to announce the merger of their organizations. These three AIDS service providers come together as strong, viable partners to create an agency that will sustain, enhance, and expand services for people living with HIV/AIDS throughout the metropolitan Chicago area.

This merger is the culmination of a year-long process. Following extensive internal review, the three organizations began a comprehensive planning process early last summer. Through a series of facilitated discussions, the organizations developed a shared vision and mission for the merged organization. There are two goals of the merger: to create a model of integrated services that will make more services available to our clients and to increase agency effectiveness and financial stability. A three-year plan was created to guide program development.

The merger will build upon the core competencies of the partner agencies to broaden client services. The new organization will provide a continuum of integrated services, including food and nutrition services, case management, housing services and prevention education programs. This merger is a proactive step to ensure our clients have the services they require for as long as they need them.

The merger will become official on July 1, 2002. We have initiated a transition plan that will systematically bring the three organizations together. In the coming months, we will create a new name and identity for the organization. We expect an announcement in the fall.

We appreciate your support and look forward to your continued involvement in this exciting new venture.

Sincerely,

John P. Buckley                                                                              Chief Executive Officer

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