Christies Place Martha Robles Peer Navigation Coordinator

By JP Emerson

My name is Martha Robles. I am a 58 year old Latina woman, diagnosed with HIV in 2000. I am a single mother of two grown children. I have worked for Christie’s Place for the past 15 years.

Would you please tell us your personal journey with Christie’s Place?

I began working in the HIV field 18 years ago as an outreach volunteer in San Diego, CA where I was providing information to the community about HIV testing as well as other services available for persons living with HIV/AIDS. I began working at Christies Place as a Family Case Worker in 2010 and became a Peer Navigator with the Change for Women Program in 2011. 

What is a Peer Navigation Coordinator?

Recently I was promoted to Peer Navigation Program Coordinator and lead a group of four peer navigators. For women living with HIV who know their status but who are not accessing medical care, we ensure their biological, psychological, and social needs are met. Once a woman is connected to the program, the Peers assess their needs and work with them to access services such as case management, transportation, mental health counseling, and medical care. Once the clients are stable, the peers continue to stay in contact with the clients to make sure they are doing well, remain engaged in their medical care, and have access to the support services that they need.

What is the importance of Christie’s Place for our community?

The importance and mission of Christie’s Place is to empower women and families impacted by HIV/AIDS to help them take charge of their health and wellness.

The WORD is Love and Empowerment Grows Here