The PALMS Project is a program of the Philadelphia Health Management Corporation (PHMC), a non-profit, public health institute involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS since 1987.
The PALMS Project provides HIV prevention education to adolescents and young adults in community- and school- settings in Philadelphia through improvisational, interactive theatrical performances presented by trained volunteer peer actors. The performances portray life situations that adolescents and young adults face on a daily basis. Audience participation is one of the unique features of the PALMS project-and the fact that the project limits audiences to small groups of 10-50 participants encourage such participation.
Currently, the project specifically targets African American youth and youth living in urban communities, including low income as well as incarcerated, detained, substance involved youth.
The aim of the PALMS Project is to increase knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention; reduce high-risk sexual behaviors by enhancing self-efficacy and negotiating skills for condom use.
PALMS Acting Troupe
The troupe consists of trained volunteer peer actors from all walks of life in the age range of 18-34. The men and women who volunteer come with a personal desire to serve the communities in which they live through teaching young people about HIV/AIDS. Volunteer actors should have exceptional improvisational skills and the ability to portray characters age range 16-25. Candidates must be personable, professional, articulate, and able to work with difficult-to-reach youth. Knowledge of HIV/AIDS preferred, but not required.
In general an actor will have two performances and the mandatory monthly meeting, for which they will be reimbursed. There may be other performance and payment opportunities to perform based on the schedule of events.
If you or someone you know has a youthful appearance and is interested in auditioning, please contact us immediately!
Danielle Woodson
PALMS Project Assistant
215-985-2584
