Being Alive names
new executive director

Being Alive/People With HIV-AIDS Action Coalition this week announced the selection of the organization's new executive director. Rafael Cosio, director of education and HIV programs at Pacific Pride Foundation in Santa Barbara, Calif., was tapped to head Los Angeles-based Being Alive. Cosio was chosen from among more than 200 applicants, agency officials say.

"Rafael Cosio's years of experience working for people with HIV/AIDS at a grassroots level make him a perfect match for our organization," Guy Beck, president of Being Alive's board of directors, said in a press statement. "I am confident that he has both the experience and understanding that uniquely qualify him to lead our organization into the future."

Being Alive is a nonprofit organization created and operated by and for people living with HIV. The organization offers emotional support programs, a wellness center, a speakers bureau, and a prevention-for-positives initiative; it also holds social events, offers HIV education services, and advocates for the HIV community. Being Alive has offices in West Hollywood, Calif., and the Silver Lake section of Los Angeles. (The Advocate)