Kind Clinic and I'm From Driftwood - A New Partnership
Across Texas, queer and trans people are building community, accessing care, and working to live full, complex lives filled with joy, even in a world that often tries to diminish their light. Too often, those stories are overlooked, ignored, or dismissed. Because of this, Kind Clinic, one of the leading providers of affirming sexual health and HIV care in Texas, is partnering with I’m From Driftwood to help change that by amplifying queer stories by Texans, for Texans.
This partnership brings together two organizations deeply rooted in community. Kind Clinic operates a growing statewide network of clinics and partners that connect people to HIV testing and treatment, PrEP, STI testing, and affirming care. I’m From Driftwood brings years of experience documenting and sharing authentic LGBTQ+ stories that foster visibility, understanding, and connection.
Why LGBTQ+ Storytelling Matters for HIV Care & Prevention
For people living with HIV, for those navigating stigma, and for anyone seeking community, representation matters. Representation allows queer and trans communities to feel seen, heard, and valued. Storytelling plays a critical role in breaking down misinformation and reducing stigma around HIV and sexual health. It helps audiences move beyond an issue and focus on the individual behind the experience.
“Storytelling is the foundation of care,” said Joe Anderson Jr., Community Engagement Director at Kind Clinic. “When people see themselves reflected in others, especially across a state as diverse as Texas, it creates connection and trust. That trust allows people to show up as their full, authentic selves in their everyday lives. This partnership uplifts community voices while reinforcing that affirming HIV care is available and helps Kind Clinic serve as a conduit to care from the community to the clinic.”
Through this partnership, Kind Clinic and I’m From Driftwood will feature stories from people living with HIV, community partners across Texas, and individuals impacted by access to affirming, culturally responsive care.
Partnering With Leaders in Queer Storytelling
I’m From Driftwood has spent years creating space for LGBTQ+ people to share their stories with honesty and pride. Their platform demonstrates how lived experiences can build empathy, strengthen communities, and drive meaningful change.
“Storytelling is a public health intervention,” said I’m From Driftwood Executive Director Nathan Manske. “When queer and trans Texans see others like them talking honestly about HIV, sexual health, mental health, community, and care, stigma loses its grip and access becomes possible. This partnership with Kind Clinic is about meeting people where they are, with truth, compassion, and stories that make care feel human, not clinical. I’m From Driftwood is proud to bring 17 years of LGBTQIA+ storytelling together with Kind Clinic’s deep roots in queer and trans communities across Texas.”
More Stories Coming in 2026
The first story from this partnership will launch during Black History Month and underscoring the importance of centering Black voices and experiences in HIV awareness, prevention, and care. Additional stories will be released throughout the year, reflecting the diversity, resilience, and strength of queer Texans.
Kind Clinic is proud to partner with I’m From Driftwood and excited to expand storytelling as a tool for connection, education, and community care across Texas.
More stories coming soon.
