In 1985, a group of dedicated volunteers led by Kerry Stoner formed the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force (PATF) in response to a cry from those infected with HIV/AIDS for compassion, supportive services, and information about the disease.

In its infancy, PATF offered the Legal Advocacy program to fight discrimination, as well as emotional and practical support to those who were dying from AIDS through what became known as the Buddy Program.  Incorporated as a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization in March 1986, PATF existed as an all-volunteer agency until March 1988, when the organization hired PATF founder, Kerry Stoner as its first Executive Director. 

As medical treatments improved and our understanding of HIV/AIDS advanced, PATF’s services evolved and expanded to meet the changing needs of the community.  Our services now include case management, anonymous HIV testing and counseling, a food pantry, a Speakers Bureau, transportation, and emergency fund assistance, transitional and permanent housing, and prevention and educational outreach.

Now in our third decade of service, PATF has progressed from an agency that helped people with AIDS to die with dignity into an agency that helps people with HIV/AIDS live healthier, more productive lives.  PATF is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in Southwestern Pennsylvania and currently serves clients in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties.