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Indianapolis-- The Damien Center, a local non-profit focused on the prevention of HIV/AIDS, announces a $150,000 contribution from Wayne Zink and Randy Deere to provide funding to significantly build their prevention and HIV testing program. This commitment allows The Damien Center to be an even more relevant resource in the community by reaching out to a growing population of undiagnosed HIV positive individuals as well as prevent the proliferation of new cases, ultimately stopping the spread of the disease.

"In the absence of medical cure, prevention needs to be the cornerstone of our efforts to combat HIV/AIDS," said Tracy Elliott, executive director, The Damien Center. "A primary concentration for us is providing help to those most vulnerable, such as children, young people (especially girls), women, African Americans and gay men. Wayne and Randy's commitment to this mission will truly transform our ability to do so."

"Randy and I have been actively working to prevent the spread of HIV for many years," said Wayne Zink, local philanthropist. "What stands out for us is this fact - HIV is an unusual infection. By investing in The Damien Center's prevention efforts, we see a clear and direct relationship between our commitment and preventing HIV infection. These dollars will result in impact."

The Damien Center will continue to offer free and confidential HIV testing five days a week. Trained prevention case managers counsel groups and individuals who may be considered at high risk of HIV and other STDs. Testing is available Tuesday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday evenings until 7:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary, but encouraged. For more information concerning how to receive confidential testing, please contact The Damien Center, 317/632-0123 or go to www.damien.org.