The artists, advocates, and groups in ActALIVE use or advocate use of the arts to address HIV/AIDS and other issues like poverty and development. Art forms include: dance, drama, song, visual arts (painting, photography, film, video), multimedia, and the written word (plays, poems, narratives).

The coalition was organised to create a network for all individuals and groups using the arts to address HIV/AIDS, in all parts of the world. Through the network, these organisations and individuals are sharing information and building collaboration.

HIV/AIDS

The organisers state that the arts are a unique way to address HIV/AIDS issues. "...partly because anyone can be creative and share that with others, even in settings of low-to-zero literacy, the arts can communicate a powerful message through visuals and auditory means. In other words, the goals of "IEC"--Information, Education, Communication"--as regarding HIV/AIDS are greatly enhanced with this amazing arts tool, and all of our members are using same for what they believe to be great effect in their communities."