In 1988, the AIDS Action Coalition began offering support to those in the Huntsville community living with HIV/AIDS. Services were provided by volunteers and included such simple acts as bringing a client dinner or helping with a rent or mortgage payment. Money for this support came from donations given by people in the community with a willingness to help.

In August 1990, Congress passed the Ryan White Care Act, landmark legislation that provided funding for medical care for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. It would be 10 more years before the AAC would receive its first federal grant through the Ryan White Care Act.

In 1992, the AAC opened the Joe Davis Clinic to help provide medical services to persons infected with HIV. The Davis clinic currently serves nearly 500 active clients and has seen almost 1,000 individuals since opening its doors. All medical services are provided regardless of the client's ability to pay. Approximately 65% of its clients have no insurance.

Today, the AAC is a nonprofit with a $1 million budget, providing medical care and support services to anyone living with HIV/AIDS in the 14 counties of North Alabama. The clinic is partially funded through the Ryan White Care Act and state supported grants, but with the number of HIV-positive individuals increasing rapidly in the South, the AAC finds itself depending more and more on the generous donations of its community as it continues to treat those living with this disease.

In 2008, the AAC will celebrate its 20th anniversary as an AIDS service organization.