Today is World AIDS Day, and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson joined community members in Fordham to raise awareness and offer resources.

Community members were also able to receive free HIV testing. Organizations gathered at Fordham Plaza to sound the alarm on the AIDS epidemic.

With the very first case diagnosed in 1981, AIDS is the main factor for nearly 36.6 million deaths worldwide - reaching a one-year peak of 1.9 million deaths in 2004 alone. It is considered one of the world's most serious public health challenges of all time.

Gibson says it's important that New Yorkers are educated and aware of prevention and treatment.

Organizers tell News 12 this day of action is also a way to remove the stigma of AIDS in communities. For additional city resources, click here.