Recognizing prison visiting represents an opportunity to identify and provide services to partners of incarcerated men, 30 women visiting their partners at a large State prison in California participated in focus groups that led to the development of a peer-led HIV education intervention. The purpose of focus groups was to determine the target population's awareness of HIV and AIDS, perceived personal risks, attitudes toward health care and sexual health issues, motivations for attending HIV prevention interventions, and desire for services. Data were obtained from 86 women who completed baseline surveys, 81 women who completed post-intervention surveys, and 67 women who were followed 1 month after the intervention. Although women visiting their incarcerated partners were generally well-informed about HIV transmission and prevention, it was determined interventions addressing their specific emotional and informational needs are necessary to motivate and assist them in reducing their risk of HIV infection. 17 references and 2 tables