Unique People Services AIDS Programs Inc.

Overview

Unique People Services AIDS Programs Inc. (EIN: 13-3863696) is a nonprofit organization headquartered in New York City, founded in 1991 by Lynn Wonsang. It operates under the 501(c)(3) designation as a charitable organization. The organization is dedicated to providing supportive housing and services to individuals facing significant life challenges, including homelessness, HIV/AIDS, and mental illness.

Mission

The mission of Unique People Services is to serve individuals holistically and without judgment, particularly those who have faced discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, health status, or substance use history. The organization aims to ensure that all individuals receive compassionate care and the opportunity for a better quality of life, promoting dignity and respect for each person they serve.

Programs and Services

Unique People Services operates various housing programs designed to meet the needs of vulnerable populations:

• HIV/AIDS Transitional Housing Programs: These programs provide transitional and permanent scattered-site housing for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. They help residents stabilize their lives, secure entitlements, and access medical and psychological care as well as substance abuse counseling. The program has the capacity to serve up to 91 individuals in transitional settings, primarily located in the Bronx and Manhattan.

• Permanent and Supportive Housing Programs: Unique People Services offers permanent housing solutions for formerly homeless individuals and families throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. In these scattered-site apartments, the organization provides comprehensive support services, including case management, medical and psychiatric monitoring, and recreational activities, serving up to 430 individuals annually.

• Community Mental Health Housing: The organization operates several mental health housing programs in the Bronx, focusing on individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses. These programs include community residence single room occupancy (SRO) accommodations, which provide essential services and support to formerly homeless mentally ill individuals.

Financials

As of the fiscal year ending June 2023, Unique People Services reported total revenue of approximately $10.8 million, with expenses totaling around $11.8 million. The organization maintains total assets valued at $13 million and total liabilities amounting to $11.6 million. The primary source of revenue for the organization is derived from program services, emphasizing its commitment to community support rather than fundraising through donations[1][2][5].

Commitment to Quality and Ethics

Unique People Services is committed to high standards of service, ensuring that its operations reflect ethical governance and transparency. The organization emphasizes the importance of its board's involvement in assessing executive performance and maintaining a diverse and inclusive leadership structure. Regular evaluations and conflict-of-interest policies are part of its governance practices to uphold accountability and ethical standards[2][5].

Unique People Services continues to expand its offerings and adapt to the needs of the communities it serves, advocating for greater public understanding of the often-overlooked needs of individuals with special circumstances.