Dignity HMC is

HIV Services for Abilene & the Big Country

Who We Are

Building a better Texas where People with HIV are Safe, Healthy, and Whole.

Dignity HMC (Formerly BCAR) began life in 1984 as the Big Country AIDS Support Group as a way to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic of the late 70s and 80s. 

In the 40 years since its inception, Dignity HMC has grown into an organization that provides medication, dental & medical services, housing, support, and a community to those living with HIV.

Our mission is to create an Abilene and area community that is free from the stigma of living with HIV/AIDS.

Joy Ellinger
Executive Director

Joy Ellinger
Executive Director

Chesley Martin Staff Photo

Chesley Martin
Finance Director

Our Approach

We treat the whole person, not just HIV

We believe in not only providing medical care but building a robust community.

At Dignity Health Management Center, we prioritize holistic care, understanding that each person is more than their medical condition. Our commitment goes beyond treating HIV; we aim to foster a comprehensive and supportive community. By combining medical care with a dedication to building robust connections, we empower individuals not just to manage their health but to thrive within a community that values compassion, understanding, and collective well-being. At the heart of our approach is the belief that true healthcare extends beyond clinical services, embracing the richness of human connections and the strength that comes from a united and caring community.

01.

— Our Mission

Dignity is dedicated to preventing the spread of HIV and helping those living with it in Abilene and the Big Country. 

02.

— Our Vision​

We believe in a community where people with HIV/AIDS are healthy, safe, and whole. Our mandate is to focus on medical, and community aspects of living with HIV to make this vision real in the lives of our clients. 

03.

— Our Story

Dignity HMC is an HIV/AIDS nonprofit that has been in continuous operation for 40 years. We are committed to stopping the spread and stigma of HIV in Abilene and the Big Country. 

"Competent medical care is paramount to the long-term health and well being of people with HIV."

MEDICAL

Our incredible medical team is ready to not only get you the medications you need but to help you improve, and regulate your overall health.

Peter 3x4

Dr. Peter Norton

Medical Director
Cindy 3x4

Cindy Crawford

Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Tim 3x4

Tim Christopher

Nursing (LVN)

Medical Team

The everyday superheroes who make your health their top priority!

Programs

"Our programs are designed to help meet the needs of HIV positive people and help them lead full and productive lives."

Jamie 3x4

Jamie Tarantella

Programs Director

Care

Our Awesome Care Coordinators can help you find the help and programs you need!

Kalea 3x4

Kalea Villegas

Care Coordinator
Antonio 3x4

Antonio Whitted

Care Coordinator
Beatrice 3x4

Beatrice Kanyange

Care Coordinator
Ashli 2 3x4

Ashli Jones

Care Coordinator

Housing Needs

We can help with free and low-cost housing programs for our clients in need!

Kacie Flores 3x4

Kacie Flores

HOPWA Manager

“Providing dignity means having access to the Food, Housing, and Services you need"

- Sam Hatton, Dignity Board President

Ron 3x4

Ron Miller

Food Pantry/Admin

Food Assistance

Our food pantry is rated as one of the best in the Big Country!

Admin Team

Get to know our behind-the-scenes team who make the magic happen!

Carla 3x4

Carla Caraway

Administrative

You can be a hero!

Every dollar donated to Dignity HMC goes to impacting the lives of our clients.