The Brothers of the Desert (BOD) is a non-profit organization that provides a growing network of support for Black gay men and allies in the Coachella Valley. Our mission is to “nurture and support Black gay men and allies through philanthropy, volunteerism, mentorship, education, advocacy, and social networking. Our purpose is to change the dynamics that produce isolation, disconnection, and inequities among Black gay men.

Since the first walk in 1987, and its founding in 1984, DAP Health has strived to advocate for all clients. In the beginning, people walked to raise awareness for men who were dying from HIV/AIDS, and support their rights to receive the health care they deserved. Over time, and while HIV continues to be the core of DAP Health, they have expanded their services not only to people living with HIV but to everyone. DAP Health provides primary medical care, HIV and Hepatitis specialty care, social services, case management, mental health and addiction services, and much more. Regardless of someone’s ability to pay. DAP Health believes that everyone deserves health care – period.

Many years later, the Brothers of the Desert walks for health equity and health justice for women’s rights, transgender rights, LGBTQ+ rights – Human Rights! We walk in support of reproductive rights. We walk in support of gender-affirming care rights. We walk in support of making sure that no one feels shame, stigma, isolation, or bias based on their sexual orientation, gender, color, or how they choose to express their sexual identity or with whom. We walk because with all that is happening in this world, we need to raise awareness not only for HIV but for all rights.

Will you join us?

Please consider walking on our team or making a donation to our page.