Today we’d like to introduce you to Esteban Duarte.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From Shadows to Light: Esteban Duarte and VIDA’s Mission Against HIV, Homelessness, and Education Inequity
In the vibrant heart of San Diego, Esteban Duarte’s dynamic leadership at VIDA tells a compelling story of transformation and resilience in the battle against HIV and beyond. Established twelve years ago, VIDA rose to meet an urgent need for resources and awareness within the Latinx and LGBTQAI+ communities, especially in the face of significant stigma and discrimination.
My generosity is rooted in my Latinx culture, my family, and a profound belief that “WE ARE BLESSED AND HERE TO HELP EACH OTHER.” This conviction, whether spiritual or secular, shapes my actions and is the bedrock of VIDA. Although I may not possess vast financial resources, I was raised to value the act of uplifting others. This passion led to the creation of VIDA—specifically serving LGBTQAI+ communities within the Latinx population.
As we celebrate our 12th anniversary at VIDA, I reflect on our impactful initiatives. One of my proudest accomplishments is our ‘Feed People Experiencing Homelessness’ project on Christmas Eve. For six years, we’ve assembled care bags filled with hygiene products, socks, non-perishable food, bottled water, Fentanyl Test Strips, condoms, and crucial information on HIV prevention. To date, we’ve distributed over 3,000 bags, and this year, we aim to surpass 1,250 bags for community members confronting housing challenges—thanks to generous partners like Gilead, Urban MO’s, The WORD San Diego, and BEARS San Diego.
I focus on individuals facing housing instability because I have walked that difficult path. The uncertainties and hardships of homelessness have deeply influenced my life. My experiences fuel my resolve to help others, reminding us all of our shared responsibility to support each other.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Facing Challenges Head-On.
The primary challenge faced by VIDA today is funding, especially as the current administration has cut millions in support for LGBTQAI+ communities. Nevertheless, we have secured grants from the Centers for Disease Control Foundation and others to continue distributing HIV self-test kits. For the first time, we are tapping into our investment account to sustain our programs.
This Christmas Eve, our goal remains ambitious: to feed 1,250 homeless individuals. However, due to funding limitations, meeting this target may prove difficult. Supporting those less fortunate is more crucial than ever, particularly this year, as inflation and rising living costs contribute to an increase in homelessness.
To confront these obstacles, we’ve recently welcomed three new Members At Large to help grow and evolve our programs. Despite the challenges, our commitment to the community remains unwavering.
A Vision for the Future
As VIDA celebrates its anniversary, our impact is visible in the lives we’ve touched and the community we’ve uplifted. Through collaboration, educational initiatives, and steadfast support for those in need, Esteban Duarte and VIDA are not just stat-shifters; they are transforming futures.
Join the Fight Against HIV: Take Action Today
As we celebrate the transformative work of Esteban Duarte and VIDA, it’s clear that everyone has a role to play in ending the HIV epidemic. Here are three actionable ways you can contribute to this vital mission:
1. Know Your Status: Take the first step in safeguarding your health and the health of others by getting tested for HIV. Knowing your status is crucial in prevention and treatment efforts. Reach out to local health organizations or clinics to find testing options in your area.
2. Volunteer Your Time: Consider dedicating your time and skills to organizations like VIDA. Whether through direct service, outreach, or administrative support, your contributions can make a significant impact in supporting those affected by HIV and helping to provide essential resources to vulnerable communities.
3. Make a Contribution: Financial support is critical for non-profits like VIDA to continue their important work. Your donations can help provide testing kits, educational materials, and vital services to those in need. Even a small contribution can create significant change.
Together, we can stand in solidarity with Esteban and the Board at VIDA, driving toward a future free from the burden of HIV. Your involvement matters—let’s take action and make a difference!
Together, they stand as a beacon of hope in San Diego, inspiring others to join the fight against HIV and addressing the broader challenges of today. With hearts full of compassion and a vision for a better future, Esteban and VIDA demonstrate that we can uplift communities and create lasting change.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
While my professional background lies in Aerospace and Medical Device Manufacturing, my heart is firmly committed to VIDA. Growing up in San Ysidro and Tijuana, I witnessed the urgent need for awareness and resources, especially for monolingual Spanish speakers. For too long, stigma has hindered individuals from seeking help; HIV does not discriminate, but stigma certainly does.
Initially, VIDA focused on combating HIV incidence through resource provision and referrals. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that we began distributing HIV self-collect test kits at outreach events, ensuring vulnerable populations could access essential testing when many clinics were closing or severely limiting their services.
The statistics highlight the urgency of our mission: as of December 31, 2024, San Diego County is home to 14,512 individuals living with HIV (PLWH), with Latinx communities accounting for 44% of PLWH and nearly half of new cases diagnosed from 2020 to 2024. This reality fuels our commitment to empowering individuals with the critical knowledge and resources they need.
Over time, VIDA has broadened its mission to support the community on multiple fronts. We provide scholarships to LGBTQ students pursuing higher education, recognizing that education is a key to empowerment and opportunity. Additionally, during the holiday season, our passion for feeding those in need shines through. This Christmas Eve, we aim to provide meals for 1,250 individuals experiencing homelessness. Yet, we face significant challenges due to funding constraints. Rising living costs and economic instability underscore the urgent need for compassion and support.
The Three Pillars of My Journey
Reflecting on my journey, three key qualities have shaped my path:
1. Gratitude and Humility: Acknowledging the support I’ve received helps me stay focused on our mission.
2. Learning from Mistakes: I look back only to grow; every misstep has been a lesson in my development.
3. Accountability: There is strength in admitting when I’ve erred; this transparency fosters trust within our community.
Before launching VIDA, I sought guidance from the Small Business Administration, and one piece of wisdom has continually guided me: “Always Be #1.” I started VIDA to fight against HIV infection while bolstering my community with knowledge and understanding.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
While working in China, I had the opportunity to hike the GREAT WALL 3 times, hike upto the Hanging Temple, and walk across a frozen lake.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vida.community/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vidaorg/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vidaeuorg/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vidacommunity
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@vida3184
- Threads: https://www.threads.com/@vidaorg
Image Credits
The WORD San Diego
Big Mike Photography
[XPOZD] Photography
Latinas Con Poder
