These efforts should recognize that didactic education alone will not change behavior, that educational strategies for youth must be multifaceted, that programs must involve youth as teachers, that learning must take place in culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate ways, and that viable collaboration between local governmental entities and community agencies is vital. Blacks make up only 12 percent of the total United States population and 25 percent of AIDS cases. Targeted education programs are needed for youths and young adults. Three effective projects currently in operation in San Francisco are a school-based education program, a rap music contest, and a community-based prevention effort. Funding for evaluations of these and other efforts is needed. Comments from a mother's perspective and 7 references.