HIV/AIDS are affecting increasingly complex, more diverse populations, particularly communities of color. Despite National prevention efforts designed to speak to marginal experience, these communities continue to be disproportionately affected, especially in rural areas of the country which are difficult to access with communication about HIV. A study examined the communication strategies being used in minority-based public health HIV prevention efforts in Alabama, with a focus on rural communities with limited access to minority-run organizations. Interviews were conducted with HIV educators throughout the state, especially those engaged in rural outreach. Only one of 10 public health centers in Alabama is administered by African Americans, and, as a result, planning groups often come up with communication efforts that are unrealistic for actual HIV prevention for communities of color. Although health symposiums for health professionals occur, little actual outreach with at-risk communities is funded. However, some community-based organizations (CBOs) have had great success with minority populations. For example, one CBO set up tents, offered free food, soft drinks and prizes, and used a popular African American disc jockey from a local radio station to broadcast a live remote from the field next to a housing project where the events were held. Findings suggest that efforts to make communication in HIV prevention efforts must be made more culturally sensitive and relevant if they are to be effective in reaching marginalized communities. (Contains 17 references.) (NKA)