The Harm Reduction Action Center served injection drug users long before syringe exchanges were legal by providing them not only with clean rigs to help them protect themselves and others against disease, but also with education and classes about how to break free of their addiction. Because of this, the organization has built trust with a population that is skeptical of the medical establishment. In addition, HRAC organizes voting drives and protests; collaborates with artists on multimedia projects; and conducts cutting-edge training — something that has also given it a respected voice at the State Capitol.