Ron Simmons, Ph.D. is the president and CEO of Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. (UHU), a nonprofit agency dedicated to reducing HIV infection in the African-American community. UHU began as a self-help group for HIV-infected black gay men who would meet in their living rooms. Under Dr. Simmons’ leadership, UHU has become one of the largest black AIDS organizations in the country serving gay/bisexual men, heterosexual men and women, transgender persons and youth.
On Monday, Oct. 14, 2013, UHU will host a 25th anniversary gala featuring legendary vocalist Jennifer Holiday at DC’s Arena Stage.
Here, he discusses working in the black community and bringing awareness and prevention to HIV.
What inspires you to show up at work every day?
Knowing that what Us Helping Us does each day impacts the lives of individuals and we make a difference in the community. We started out as a support group for black gay men living with AIDS and today we are a mental health clinic providing prevention and support services. From our beginning, our clients have told us about the positive impact we have had in their lives.
How did you determine your career path?
My path was determined by me, fate, and God. I was an assistant professor at Howard University in the School of Communications. God led me to the support group and gave me the opportunity to lead Us Helping Us. That was 21 years ago and building Us Helping has been a blessing from the beginning.
What other institutions connect to your career choice?
Working in HIV prevention in the black community connects you to all the essential social institutions: the family, the church and school. But it also connects to institutional beliefs such as racism, homophobia, criminal justice and health care.
Describe the skill sets that are essential to future business leaders and innovators.
Compassion for human beings and justice, and little tolerance for social inequality; a belief in yourself when the circumstances against your success seem overwhelming.
How do you set goals and evaluate your success?
On a personal level and organizational level the key is strategic planning. To set goals you want to accomplish in two to three years and systematically pursue those goals, be it education, a new house, or a new program.
How do you stay abreast of changes in your field?
Continuous reading and research. Attending conferences to hear what changes are coming and planning your response.
