In the mid-1990s, when the HIV/AIDS epidemic was sweeping the nation, Jeffrey King sprang into action. Alarmed by the lack of resources and information to prevent the virus in non-white communities, especially in South LA, he began grassroots organizing to combat racism in the public health system. “It’s been challenging for us to step in to do the work,” says King.  But, encouraged to make a better world for others, King formed the Black Gay Men’s Task Force and the Black LGBTQ+ Network to identify and address salient issues affecting the community; advise Los Angeles County on fairer models to distribute resources;  and build a community to cultivate safe spaces for discussion and learning. These collectives led to a series of grassroots initiatives that paved the way for In The Meantime Men’s Group, which continues the focus on improving circumstances for Black gay and bisexual men. 

Under King’s leadership, In The Meantime Men’s Group has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including social discussions, youth outreach, food distribution, and crucially, HIV and STD screening. The organization’s efforts have garnered support from LA County Departments of Public Health and Mental Health, the CDC, and numerous foundations including the Elton John Foundation, Weingart Foundation and AIDS Healthcare Foundation, boosting In the Meantime Men’s Group’s capacity to provide essential services.

LA County’s struggle against HIV and AIDS spans decades, but for over 26 years Jeffrey King and In The Meantime Men’s Group, Inc. have helped bridge the cultural gap to empower Black gay and bisexual men. His role as a fierce advocate for the holistic wellness of Black people with an acute focus on HIV/AIDS awareness, mental health services, housing support and overall well-being is more crucial than ever. The challenges remain significant, but through King’s relentless efforts, the hope is real and tangible.