Episode 102: Philip Yaeger

Philip Yaeger is the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Radiant Health Centers in Orange County, a role he took on in 2008. His deep dedication to the organization, which was formerly known as AIDS Services Foundation Orange County, spans decades, originating from a personal commitment to the cause. Yaeger's journey began in 1993 as a volunteer, motivated after a family friend passed away from an AIDS-related infection, an experience that highlighted the intense stigma surrounding the disease at the time. This powerful introduction solidified his passion for making a difference in the lives of people with HIV and their loved ones.

Yaeger quickly transitioned from volunteer to an integral part of the organization's professional staff. His first paid role was as the organization's food pantry coordinator, a position funded by a grant from the Elizabeth Taylor Foundation. Over the next 15 years, he held a variety of direct and support service roles, which provided him with a 360-degree view of the organization's crucial work. This comprehensive experience involved the development of essential programs including nutrition, housing, transportation, and health education, preparing him to take on the top leadership position.

As an highly respected authority on HIV and the importance of education, prevention, and care, Yaeger has driven Radiant Health Centers to become the largest and most comprehensive HIV/AIDS organization in Orange County. Under his leadership, the organization has created a vital continuum of care, often referred to as a "one-stop shop," where people can access testing, counseling, and a full range of services in one place. He has also championed the organization's broader mission to provide compassionate and comprehensive health services to all underserved individuals, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community and those living with and affected by HIV. This expansion included launching Orange County's first health clinic specializing in the unique needs of LGBTQ+ patients in 2019, a move designed to address healthcare inequality and provide a stigma-free environment.

Yaeger continues to lead the organization with a focus on achieving zero new HIV transmissions in Orange County. He emphasizes the critical need to address social determinants of health, such as homelessness and food insecurity, recognizing that people cannot prioritize their medical regimen if their basic needs are unmet. Yaeger’s dedication and commitment are an invaluable asset, ensuring that Radiant Health Centers remains a beacon of hope and compassionate care for the most vulnerable populations in the Orange County community.