Regional Offices

PHAC British Columbia and Yukon Regions

The British Columbia and Yukon Regional Office administers federally funded population health and health promotion programs, including ACAP, in British Columbia.

ACAP is currently providing operational funding to nine community-based AIDS organizations in British Columbia and project funding for 12 time-limited projects.

PHAC BC is currently seeking letters of intent for one-year ACAP projects to begin April 1, 2007 ending March 31, 2008. In British Columbia, the HIV/AIDS epidemic is a serious public health challenge. Epidemiological evidence and a review of currently funded ACAP initiatives strongly indicate the need to focus on the prevention of new HIV infections among gay men and/or men who have sex with men. For more information, please contact Moffatt Clarke at 604-666-1747 or at moffatt_clarke@phac-aspc.gc.ca.

How to apply for ACAP funding.

For information on ACAP in Yukon, refer to the Northern Secretariat.

For more information on ACAP funding in the BC Region, contact Moffatt Clarke at moffatt_clarke@phac-aspc.gc.ca or (604) 666-1747, or write to:

Public Health Agency of Canada
Suite 440F
757 West Hastings Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 1A1

Links

• British Columbia Ministry of Health
• BC Centre for Disease Control
• British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS

Health Authorities in British Columbia

• Provincial Health Services Authority
• Vancouver Coastal Health
• Vancouver Island Health Authority
• Interior Health
• Fraser Health
• Northern Health

ACAP Operational Funding in British Columbia

The following organizations are currently receiving operational funding in British Columbia (four-year funding term - 2003-2007):

• AIDS Vancouver
• AIDS Vancouver Island
• ANKORS - AIDS Network, Outreach and Support Society
• BC Persons with AIDS Society
• Pacific AIDS Network
• Positive Living North: No kheyoh t'sih'en t'sehena Society (Prince George)
• Positive Living North West Society (Smithers)
• Positive Women's Network
• YouthCO AIDS Society
  

AIDS Vancouver

Address: AIDS Vancouver
1107 Seymour St.
Vancouver, BC V6B 5S8
Telephone: (604) 893-2201
Fax: (604) 893-2211
E-mail: contact@aidsvancouver.org
Web Site: www.aidsvancouver.org

Title: Volunteer Resources Program

Description:

Incorporated in 1983, AIDS Vancouver (AV) is a leader in HIV/AIDS prevention, education, support and advocacy. The agency is dedicated to creating supportive environments for persons living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, and is guided by the principles of population health and community development in its commitment to a collaborative community-based response to HIV/AIDS throughout British Columbia and other parts of Canada. AV provides leadership and consultation to other ASOs and community partners in the area of volunteer management and best practises.

Volunteers are essential for the functioning of not-for-profit, community-based organizations. AV's volunteer pool is six times the number of employees. Volunteers with AV contribute over 15,000 hours annually. AV's volunteers are critically important in enhancing service delivery to clients, other agencies and the community at large. It is anticipated that the demand for AV's services will increase over the next few years as epidemiological evidence predicts increased rates of infection in several of the client groups that AV serves, particularly people who inject drugs, women, Aboriginal people and gay youth. AV's challenge is to recruit, sustain and retain enough volunteers to continue to meet the need.

AV will conduct an environmental assessment to inform the development of new, challenging and relevant volunteer opportunities. The program will increase the capacity and skill level of volunteers at AV to provide services and support that will enhance the quality of life for individuals who are infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Other community-based ASOs will benefit from AV's volunteer program by accessing lessons learned and best practices to assist with the development of their own volunteer programs. A project evaluation plan is tracking indicators of success, such as an increase in knowledge and skill of volunteers, a decrease in volunteer burnout and an increase in the capacity of other ASOs to develop a volunteer resources program.

AIDS Vancouver Island

Address: AIDS Vancouver Island
1601 Blanshard Street,
Victoria BC V8W 2J5
Telephone: (250) 384-2366
Fax: (250) 380-9411
E-mail: info@avi.org
Web Site: www.avi.org

Title: Men's Wellness Program

Description:

AIDS Vancouver Island (AVI) was incorporated in 1986. Its mandate is to support, educate and advocate on behalf of all persons infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. It offers a wide range of programs and services in the areas of support, prevention, street outreach, education, resource development, communication and volunteer recruitment, training and placement.

Studies show that people who live at the margins of mainstream society are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS infection. Due to marginalization, stigma and discrimination, gay men and other men who have sex with men are at an exceedingly high risk for HIV infection. Factors that contribute to the HIV vulnerability of gay men and youth include low self-esteem, misconceptions about the efficacy of HIV medications, the perceived invincibility of youth, lack of role models, and lack of social supports. Homophobia, discrimination and violence, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas, characterize the social environment and create further barriers to effective prevention outreach.

The Men's Wellness Program builds on a successful outreach project previously funded by ACAP. Through workshops, discussion groups and community events, the program will engage gay and bisexual men in discussions around HIV/AIDS within the spectrum of men's health issues. Using community-specific outreach, the program will offer safer and supportive environments for gay and bisexual men to talk about sex, health, HIV and prevention; create a social support network; and foster the development of role models. The program will be delivered through collaborating with a wide range of health and social service agencies in Victoria and throughout Vancouver Island, and will have extensive participation of its target populations through advisory committees. An evaluation plan is tracking indicators of success, such as increased access to social support networks and decreased self-reported isolation and insularism.

ANKORS - AIDS Network, Outreach and Support Society

Address: AIDS Network, Outreach and Support Society
101 Baker Street
Nelson, BC V1L 4H1
Telephone: (250) 505-5506
Fax: (250) 505-5507
E-mail: info@ankors.bc.ca
Web Site: www.ankors.bc.ca

Title: Prevention, Education, Training and Community Care Team Program

Description:

The AIDS Network, Outreach and Support Society (ANKORS) was incorporated in 1993 as a voluntary, non-profit, community-based organization to address the unique and complex issues of HIV/AIDS in the Kootenay region of B.C. ANKORS provides service to over 50 communities within an area of 52,000 square kilometres. ANKORS is the only organization that provides HIV/AIDS education, prevention and support services in the East, West Kootenay and Boundary regions.

Individuals living with HIV/AIDS in rural regions are challenged when accessing health, social and support care. The smaller and more remote the community, the greater the problems of access. Levels of awareness of HIV/AIDS vary throughout the region. Many health and social service providers have little experience with HIV/AIDS and do not have the necessary knowledge to address HIV needs effectively. There is a need for basic HIV/AIDS prevention and education programming, as well as a variety of support and care needs. Consistently, research shows that the provision of rural health care is best served by the creation of unique, tailor-made community-based services.

This project is providing programs and services specifically designed to address local community issues as well as the broad regional issues facing rural communities. The project is increasing community and individual awareness, reducing vulnerability, improving local and regional support and increasing service provider knowledge of treatment options, support and care needs. ANKORS is also providing support to those living with HIV/AIDS to ensure they can advocate for their own health and support needs with their service providers. This program is creating safer, more educated and informed communities and community service providers throughout the East, West Kootenay and Boundary regions. A project evaluation plan is tracking indicators of success, such as an increase in new support and outreach programs for vulnerable groups, an increase in community development initiatives, and an increase in the number of improvements to regional or local policies, practices, processes, structures or resources that address HIV/AIDS.

BC Persons with AIDS Society

Address: BC Persons with AIDS Society
1107 Seymour Street, 2nd Floor
Vancouver, BC V6B 5S8
Telephone: (604) 893-2200
Toll-free: 1 800 994-2437
Fax: (604) 893-2251
E-mail: info@bcpwa.org
Web Site: www.bcpwa.org

Title: Advocacy Services Program

Description:

The BC Persons with AIDS Society (BCPWA) was incorporated in 1987 and is dedicated to empowering people living with HIV/AIDS through mutual support and collective action. It is Canada's largest AIDS organization, with a membership 4,000 HIV-positive members. It is the only major HIV/AIDS agency in Canada that has a board of directors composed entirely of people living with HIV/AIDS. The society provides peer-based programs and services for its members, including support, counselling, advocacy, access to treatment information, volunteer training and skills upgrading.

People living with HIV/AIDS experience discrimination and intolerance from landlords, employers, financial assistance workers and health care professionals due to stigma, discrimination and lack of understanding of basic HIV/AIDS issues. This continues to be a major concern as a growing number of infections are among the most disenfranchised and stigmatized: the homeless, injection drug users, women, Aboriginal people and gay men. BCPWA has been assisting its members with legal and financial situations resulting from discrimination, specifically as related to income assistance and access to services.

The program addresses the health determinant of income and social status and directly impacts the health and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS by ensuring they secure as much as possible of the total income and supports they are entitled to. It provides support to members on matters including income security, wills and estates, landlord and tenancy issues, and human rights infringement. Staff and volunteers assist members to prepare forms and understand procedures and, at times, accompany members to tribunal hearings or appeals. BCPWA educates and supports people living with HIV/AIDS in advocating on their own behalf to better prepare themselves to take more control of their health. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as an increase in the number of members with income stability and a decrease in crisis interventions by BCPWA on behalf of members.

Pacific AIDS Network

Address: Pacific AIDS Network
127 Michigan Street, Unit 4
Victoria BC V8V 1R2
Telephone: (250) 883-3118
Fax: (250) 483-6987
Email: info@pan.ca
Web Site: www.pacificaidsnetwork.ca

Title: A Coordinated Community Response to HIV/AIDS in BC

Description:

Established in 1995, the Pacific AIDS Network (PAN) is a coalition of community-based groups across B.C. that deliver HIV/AIDS prevention and support programs. Its purpose is to serve as a regional forum for communication, mutual support and collective action on HIV/AIDS-related issues. Similar to other regional HIV/AIDS coalitions, such as the Ontario AIDS Network, PAN has evolved into a valued partner and a vital resource for planning, coordinating and improving the quality of HIV/AIDS programming in communities across the region.

B.C. is a huge geographic area with many isolated communities and decentralized health care decision-making. Community-based organizations have identified the need for a regional forum to: 1) share information, develop and coordinate region-wide joint strategies, and enhance program effectiveness by sharing and exchanging ideas, resources, tools, knowledge and expertise; 2) provide a vehicle for support and encouragement of member agencies' staff, volunteers and boards of directors and for skills building in the areas of evaluation, organizational development, program planning and promotion, and influencing public policy; and 3) host a forum for persons living with HIV/AIDS throughout the region to network, articulate their needs and concerns, and provide mutual aid and support.

PAN will convene eight biannual forums for people living with HIV/AIDS to exchange ideas, discuss issues and formulate programming and policy recommendations for PAN, government and regional health authorities; eight biannual general assemblies, where delegates from member agencies determine the course of action and activities of PAN and its board of directors; and four annual skills development conferences, which will present professional-level and community, peer-based knowledge and skill development for people living with HIV, agency delegates, volunteers, staff and others. The anticipated outcome is a strengthened, effective, coordinated and efficient community-based response to HIV/AIDS in B.C. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as an increase in knowledge and skill of staff and volunteers of HIV/AIDS prevention and support programs and services and increased collaboration with various levels of government on policy issues concerning HIV/AIDS.

Positive Living North: No kheyoh t'sih'en t'sehena Society (Prince George)

Address: Positive Living North
1 - 1563 2nd Avenue
Prince George, BC V2L 3B8
Telephone: (250) 562-1172
Fax: (250) 562-3317
E-mail: info@positivelivingnorth.ca
Web Site: www.positivelivingnorth.ca

Title: The Choice is Yours: Interactive, Targeted HIV/AIDS Education

Description:

Established in 1992, Positive Living North (PLN) is a community-based, non-profit society that delivers HIV/AIDS prevention programming and support services in the city of Prince George as well as in outlying, remote areas of northern B.C., including First Nations communities. PLN is the primary organization that provides HIV/AIDS education, prevention and support services in B.C.'s northern region.

Persons living with HIV/AIDS in northern, rural and remote regions are challenged when accessing health, social and support care. The smaller and more remote the community, the greater the problems of access. Levels of awareness of HIV/AIDS vary throughout the region. Many health and social service providers have limited experience with HIV/AIDS, and do not have the necessary knowledge to address HIV needs effectively. There is a need for basic HIV/AIDS prevention and education programming, as well as a variety of support and care needs.

Building on the success of previous HIV awareness and prevention initiatives, Positive Living North delivers a comprehensive strategy to prevent the spread of HIV within vulnerable populations in Prince George and northern B.C. and to improve the quality of services provided to persons infected and affected by the disease. In partnership with the Northern Interior Public Health Unit, the local needle exchange service, substance treatment agencies, the regional correctional institution, women's transition services and the public school district, Positive Living North offers HIV awareness and prevention workshops specifically tailored to the needs of participants, focussing on vulnerable populations whose behaviour puts them at high risk of HIV infection. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as an increase in the capacity of at-risk populations to understand and reduce risky behaviours, an increase among health care and social service providers of their understanding of HIV/AIDS and its prevention, and an increase in their comfort level and confidence to provide services to people living with HIV/AIDS.

Positive Living North West Society (Smithers)

Address: Positive Living North West Society
Box 4368
Smithers, BC V0J 2N0
Telephone: (250) 877-0042
Fax: (250) 877-0047
E-mail:info@plnw.org
Web Site: www.plnw.org

Title: Health Promotion for People Living with, Affected by and At-risk for HIV and HIV/HCV Co-Infection

Description:

Positive Living North West Society (PLNW) is a community-based, non-profit society that delivers HIV/AIDS prevention programming and support services in the city of Smithers as well as in outlying, remote areas of north western British Columbia. PLNW is the primary organization that provides HIV/AIDS education, prevention and support services in north west British Columbia.

Individuals living with HIV/AIDS in rural and remote regions are challenged when accessing health, social and support care. Smaller and more remote communities experience greater problems of access. Levels of awareness of HIV/AIDS vary throughout the region. There is a need for basic HIV/AIDS prevention and education programming, as well as a variety of support and care needs. Consistently, research shows that the provision of rural health care is best achieved by the creation of unique, tailor-made, community-based services.

Working closely with community members affected by and at risk of HIV infection and their care providers, this project increases awareness of and access to programs, increases the knowledge and skill base in target populations for preventing new infections, and provides opportunities for members of the target population to volunteer as peer educators and advocates. To ensure relevant and appropriate services, the project involves the target populations in the planning, delivery and evaluation of program activities. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as changes in knowledge, awareness and attitudes of the target group concerning HIV prevention, education and management of the disease; an increase in numbers of clients accessing the program; and an increase in the level of involvement of clients in program planning and evaluation.

Positive Women's Network

Address: Positive Women's Network
1033 Davie Street, Suite #614
Vancouver, BC V6E 1M7
Telephone: (604) 692-3000
Fax: (604) 684-3126
E-mail: pwn@pwn.bc.ca
Web Site: www.pwn.bc.ca

Title: Support Program for HIV-Positive Women

Description:

The Positive Women's Network (PWN) was established in 1991 to offer support, advocacy and information services to women living with HIV/AIDS throughout British Columbia. PWN's mandate reflects a commitment to ensuring HIV-positive women participate in the development, delivery and evaluation of programming. Positive women are represented within the board of directors, paid staff and the volunteer pool, and hold leadership roles within the organization as decision makers in setting policy and direction.

Worldwide, women and children comprise the largest group of those contracting HIV. Women in Canada are increasingly becoming infected with HIV, especially injection drug users and women with high risk sexual partners. Women require women-centred support services to enable them to cope with this disease.

PWN has a proven track record and is a leader in Canada on issues of women and HIV/AIDS. This program offers innovative and effective programming and resources for women, their families and service providers. PWN offers accessible and culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal women and for women who face multiple barriers (e.g. addictions, economic circumstances, race and culture) to care, treatment and support. PWN collaborates with the UBC School of Nursing, AIDS Vancouver and McLaren Housing (AIDS service organizations) and the Oak Tree Clinic (a women and children HIV/AIDS treatment centre), among others. Funding for a community development position is provided by the Oak Tree Clinic. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as a decrease in the social isolation experienced by HIV-positive women, an increase in women accessing support services from PWN, and an increase in the number of women able to obtain the required resources and services to enable them to meet their needs.

YouthCO AIDS Society

Address: YouthCO AIDS Society
#205 - 1104 Hornby Street
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V8
Telephone: (604) 688-1441
Fax: (604) 688-4932
E-mail: information@youthco.org
Web Site: www.youthco.org

Title: The PEER (Promoting an Effective Educational Response to) Youth and HIV/AIDS Program

Description:

Established in 1994, YouthCO is a community-based, non-profit society focussing on youth aged 15 to 29. It delivers HIV prevention programming to youth at high risk of infection and support services to youth living with HIV/AIDS. Its work consists of providing outreach services, prevention education programming, training, volunteer opportunities, advocacy and peer support to youth throughout B.C. It is one of only two youth-oriented HIV/AIDS service agencies in Canada, and is highly regarded for its innovative, peer-driven training workshops and resources. It has developed strong partnerships with youth-serving agencies throughout B.C., ranging from Boys and Girls Clubs and the Girl Guides of Canada to public schools and the provincial Youth Correctional Facility.

YouthCO is responding to the threat that HIV/AIDS poses to youth, specifically young gay men, Aboriginal youth, street youth (especially those who inject drugs), youth in rural communities, youth in public schools and young women. Studies indicate that young people are not acting on their knowledge of HIV and how it is transmitted. The Public Health Agency of Canada's epidemiological data indicate that in Canada, the average age of persons becoming infected with HIV is now 23.

This initiative builds on the success of YouthCO's peer-driven HIV prevention and education strategies supported by ACAP operational funding over the past four years. There are three components to this initiative: 1) a volunteer management program that recruits, trains, supports and coordinates the agency's volunteers; 2) a peer education program that provides HIV prevention outreach, presentations and workshops to youth, youth-serving agencies and schools; and 3) a communication and resource program that develops, promotes and distributes youth-specific HIV/AIDS curricula and print resources and maintains YouthCO's resource centre and Web site. The outcome of this initiative is a sustained, enhanced HIV prevention effort aimed at youth in British Columbia. An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as increased expertise in HIV prevention programming and decreased infection rates among youth.

ACAP Project Funding in the British Columbia Region

The following projects are receiving time-limited project funding in British Columbia (two-year funding term - 2005-2007):

• AIDS Vancouver Island
• BC Persons with AIDS Society
• Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District
• Community-Based Research Centre
• Healing Our Spirit Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society
• Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families
• Positive Living North: No Kheyoh t'sih'en t'sehena Society (Prince George)
• Positive Women's Network and YouthCO
• Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society
• WISH Drop-In Centre Society
• Asian Society for the Intervention of AIDS
  

AIDS Vancouver Island

Address: AIDS Vancouver Island
1601 Blanshard Street,
Victoria BC V8W 2J5
Telephone: (250) 384-2366
Fax: (250) 380-9411
E-mail: info@avi.org
Web Site: www.avi.org

Title: Queer Youth Community Development Project

Description:

Established in 1988, AIDS Vancouver Island's (AVI) mandate is to support, educate and advocate on behalf of persons infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands by way of a wide range of support and prevention programs and services.

Once a derogatory term, the word "queer" is increasingly used to describe a person with a sexual or emotional attraction to the same sex. Evidence shows that queer youth, due to social isolation, stigma and discrimination, are vulnerable to self-destructive behaviours, such as substance misuse and risky sexual behaviour. Epidemiological data point to increasing HIV infection rates among young gay men. Through needs assessments, including focus group testing, AIDS Vancouver Island has determined that queer youth are reluctant or uncomfortable participating in programs and accessing services geared to gay adults, which results in lost opportunities for education and connection to appropriate services.

In partnership with high schools, public health and social service agencies, including the Boys and Girls Club and the YM/YWCA, the objectives of this project are to increase knowledge of and influence behaviour regarding risky sexual behaviour and substance use; enhance young people's knowledge and skills as peer educators; and address broader issues of stigma and discrimination. Activities include developing an inventory of services to build content for a new Web site and printed resource material; recruiting and training queer youth to deliver workshops for peers and for teachers, parents and workers in health and social service organizations; and supporting the development of new gay/straight alliances in high schools.

An evaluation plan tracks the project's impact by measuring indicators of success, such as the number of youth involved as trained peer educators, the number of youth reached through workshops, and the number of youth reporting better knowledge, capacity and self-esteem and better access to social networks, services and programs.

BC Persons with AIDS Society

Address: BC Persons with AIDS Society
1107 Seymour Street, 2nd Floor
Vancouver, BC V6B 5S8
Telephone: (604) 893-2200
Toll-free: 1 800 994-2437
Fax: (604) 893-2251
E-mail: info@bcpwa.org
Web Site: www.bcpwa.org

Title: Entry to Exit - Harm Reduction and Health Promotion for Inmates Project

Description:

Established in 1987, the British Columbia Persons with AIDS Society's aim is to empower people living with HIV/AIDS through mutual support and collective action. The Society provides peer-based programs and services for its 4,000 members, including support, counselling, advocacy, treatment information, volunteer training and skills upgrading.

HIV infection in Canadian prisons is over 10 times greater than in the general population. The chance of becoming infected actually increases after entry into prison because of risky behaviour while incarcerated. While support for HIV-positive inmates is being provided through the British Columbia Persons with AIDS Society's ongoing Prison Outreach Program, there is critical need to provide assistance to HIV-positive inmates post-release. At present, inmate release planning does not take into consideration the special needs of those living with HIV.

In collaboration with partners that include Correctional Services Canada and the John Howard Society, the British Columbia Persons with AIDS Society is developing a comprehensive exit strategy protocol for inmates living with HIV/AIDS. The protocol will address the following support needs: HIV-specific medical care, income support, stable housing, addiction treatment, transportation and community integration. A number of initiatives are being developed, including a buddy program, an ex-inmate support group and a post-release volunteer program, all with the intent of increasing the stability and health of inmates upon release from prison and reducing the barriers to healthier living that result in recidivism.

An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as the number of inmates assisted, the number and type of post-release supports in place, the level of awareness regarding health promotion practices among inmates subsequent to release, and the level of recidivism among the target population.

Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District

Address: Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District
11c. Yorston St.
PO Box 6084
Williams Lake, BC V2G 1J6
Telephone: (250) 392-5730
Fax: (250) 392-5743
E-mail: noopa@www.stardate.bc.ca
Web Site: Not available

Title: Reducing Harm - Developing Community Capacity to Prevent the Spread of HIV/AIDS in Williams Lake and Area

Description:

Established in 1994, the Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District works with youth, families, adults and community service organizations to provide youth with opportunities to develop skills, knowledge and values, and to assist the community to meet the needs and interests of young people.

Of the youth served by the Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District, over 85 per cent are Aboriginal, 35 per cent are involved with the justice system, and 12 per cent are under protected care. These young people are vulnerable to HIV infection because of poverty, homelessness, dropping out of school, alcohol and drug use, and lack of family support. Research indicates a high risk of HIV in this rural community because of misinformation, high rates of violence against women and children, discrimination against Aboriginal people, and fragmented, under-resourced health and social services. The Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District and other stakeholders have determined the need to use a community approach to prevent HIV infection.

Overseen by a multi-sectoral, cross-cultural steering committee that includes at-risk youth and people living with HIV, the objectives of this project are to increase knowledge and skills of youth and front-line workers and to reduce barriers to include people in the community living with HIV. The activities include delivery of education and training sessions on harm reduction, HIV/AIDS, prevention, stigma and discrimination; an information campaign using the media and presentations at key events and to city council; and a process to identify and fill gaps in communications and services with health and social services providers. An evaluation plan tracks expected outcomes, including increased awareness, knowledge and skills regarding HIV/AIDS among youth and service providers; positive changes in risk-taking behaviours by youth; and positive attitude changes among front-line workers.

Community-Based Research Centre

Address: Community-Based Research Centre
Suite 122 - 1628 West 1st Avenue
Vancouver, BC V6J 1G1
Telephone: (604) 736-0091
E-mail: admin@hiv-cbr.net
Web Site: http://cbr.cbrc.net/

Title: Next Steps - Shaping a Collaborative Planning Framework for Gay Men's Health in BC

Description:

The Community-Based Research Centre, incorporated as a non-profit society in 1999, provides information, support and advocacy to a province-wide network of gay men's health and HIV prevention workers. It builds the capacity of community-based AIDS organizations to effectively use research evidence in health planning and programs, and conducts prevention research, intervention design and outcome evaluation within communities for the health and well-being of gay men in British Columbia.

Evidence indicates rising HIV infection rates among gay men and reveals that HIV prevention for gay men in British Columbia is not organized and has no common policy or theoretical framework. Evidence also indicates that sexual risk-taking behaviour is on the increase, especially among younger gay men, and targeted prevention programs for gay men are decreasing.

Ten HIV/AIDS organizations and gay and lesbian community groups - an informal provincial Gay Men's HIV Prevention Network - forms the planning group for the project. Tools and training will be provided to assist member organizations to obtain input from gay men living with HIV/AIDS. A conference is being planned as the forum for member organizations to present and facilitate educational sessions on prevention research results and best practices. A framework will be developed collaboratively with doctors, nurses, counsellors, researchers and policy makers working in the field of gay men's health or HIV/sexually transmitted infection prevention. An evaluation plan will track the following expected outcomes: an accessible planning framework that identifies gay men's sexual health and HIV prevention needs, priorities, service gaps and benchmarks for evaluation; a document capable of informing practice and policy around gay men's sexual health; reported increased capacity by participating professionals, organizations, community leaders and volunteers to work collaboratively and to reduce harm and risks that affect gay men's health; and an increase in membership of the Gay Men's HIV Prevention Network.

Healing Our Spirit Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society

Address: Healing Our Spirit BC Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society
Suite 100 - 2425 Quebec St.
Vancouver, BC V5T 4L6
Telephone: (604) 879-8884
Fax: (604) 879-9926
Email: info@healingourspirit.org
Web Site: www.healingourspirit.org

Title: HIV/AIDS Policy Development and Implementation for APHA Offender Transitional Services

Description:

The Healing Our Spirit BC Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society, incorporated as a non-profit society in 1992, provides prevention initiatives to urban and rural Aboriginal communities and care, support, advocacy, education and information services to Aboriginal people and communities affected or infected by HIV/AIDS in British Columbia.

Recent studies indicated that there is an increase of over 35 per cent of known cases of HIV/AIDS among offenders within and outside of prisons. Aboriginal persons are disproportionately represented among inmates and in known cases of HIV infection. Correctional Service Canada has identified a priority need for gender-specific, culturally sensitive support services, and the need for increased access to health care and community reintegration and transition programs for Aboriginal offenders living with HIV/AIDS (APHA offenders). A recent telephone survey by the Healing Our Spirit BC Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society, in cooperation with transitional agencies, indicated that there were no policies in place regarding care and support for APHA offenders and their families and friends.

In collaboration with an APHA offenders advisory group and a steering committee of 10 transitional agencies in the Lower Mainland, the project provides workshops and develops resource materials to increase transitional workers' awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS and the need for policies to support Aboriginal offenders impacted by HIV/AIDS; and consults with transitional agencies to facilitate the development and implementation of culturally appropriate best practice HIV/AIDS guidelines and/or policies. The effectiveness of the implementation is being evaluated through interviews, surveys and joint meetings. It is expected that this initiative will assist 80 per cent of transitional agencies to develop and implement guidelines or policies. APHA offenders will report increased access to care, treatment and support services, and transitional workers will report increased awareness, capacity and skills in addressing APHA offenders' needs. The Healing Our Spirit BC Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society will consult with the BC Centre for Disease Control and Correctional Service Canada throughout the project.

Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families

Address: Lower Mainland Purpose Society
40 Begbie Street
New Westminster, BC V3M 3L9
Telephone: (604) 526-2522
Fax: (604) 526-6546
E-mail: purpose@pacificcoast.net
Web Site: www.purposesociety.org

Title: Positive Spaces - Peers Creating Supportive Environments in the Fraser Region

Description:

Established in 1983, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families delivers a broad array of social, health, educational and residential services in New Westminster and the Fraser Valley for youth and families who experience personal or societal distress, marginalization and alienation.

The need for a local drop-in lounge program has long been identified through evaluations and assessments conducted over the past several years by agencies providing services to people living with HIV/AIDS (PWAs) in the Fraser Valley. Also, the BC Persons with AIDS Society reports that 20 per cent of clients accessing its downtown Vancouver drop-in lounge are from the Fraser Health region, who travel long distances to attend.

This project, in collaboration with community-based groups, public health agencies, the BC Persons with AIDS Society and PWAs in New Westminster, Surrey and Abbotsford, is planning and piloting three sustainable PWA drop-in lounges in each community. Drop-in lounges are an effective and cost-efficient means of providing a safe environment for PWAs, where they can benefit from informal peer support and education and connections to community services, thereby enhancing health, well-being and quality of life. Special attention is being given to the significant diversity issues that characterize PWAs in outlying areas.

An evaluation plan tracks indicators of success, such as the number of PWAs involved, their level of satisfaction, and the degree to which they become connected to health and social services.

Title: Transmit Knowledge, not HIV - A Fraser Region Prevention Initiative for Youth

Description:

Established in 1983, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families delivers a broad array of social, health, educational, and residential services in New Westminster and the Fraser Valley for youth and families who experience personal or societal distress, marginalization and alienation.

Evidence indicates that HIV prevalence is still relatively low among youth. However, data on sexual behaviour and sexually transmitted infections offers compelling evidence that the potential exists for the spread of HIV among young Canadians. Most at risk for HIV infection are young gay males, those who are street-involved, those engaged in the sex trade, and those with substance issues.

Through consultations and partnerships with stakeholders, including schools, public health and youth-specific alcohol, drug and social service agencies, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families is developing a community response to HIV/AIDS and youth in the Fraser Health Region by developing and implementing a comprehensive peer-based training and education program in 12 different municipalities. Youth from the affected at-risk populations are being recruited and trained as peer educators. The project utilizes a variety of approaches and methodologies, including forums, training workshops and skills building strategies for peer educators.

An evaluation plan tracks the number of youth engaged and trained, the number of workshops delivered in different venues for various target groups, and the reported reduction of risk-taking behaviours using base-line data.

Positive Living North West Society

Address: Positive Living North West Society
Box 4368
Smithers, BC V0J 2N0
Telephone: (250) 877-0042
Fax: (250) 877-0047
E-mail: info@plnw.org
Web Site: www.plnw.org

Title: Interweave Project - Developing the Community HIV Response Plan

Description:

The Positive Living North West Society, incorporated as a non-profit society in 1996, is the only community-based agency in British Columbia's north west mandated to provide HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C education and training, as well as care, support and advocacy for and with people living with, affected by and at risk for these infections.

Evidence indicates that HIV infection rates in northern British Columbia have almost doubled annually for the past three years and overtaken the province-wide infection rates. In 2003, Aboriginal people accounted for at least 57 per cent of the newly diagnosed cases. This is most relevant to Smithers, as 30 per cent of its local population is Aboriginal. Evaluation by the Positive Living North West Society of a recent project identified a need to address the following barriers: confidentiality and communication issues with professional service providers; perceived racism towards First Nations; lack of access to services for those living with HIV/AIDS; and health professionals' lack of knowledge about managing HIV/AIDS. Stakeholders agree that a community development planning process is needed to address the barriers, and have joined with the Positive Living North West Society to steer the process.

The Interweave Project is developing a community HIV response plan that involves people living with, at risk for and affected by HIV; government multi-sector service providers; Aboriginal, non-Aboriginal and community-based organizations; the media; the town council; and local businesses. Using a conflict resolution approach, participants participate in educational, planning and evaluation processes to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and the lives of those affected and to determine how to respond in situations calling for prevention, harm reduction, care, treatment and support. An evaluation plan will track the following expected outcomes: those affected by HIV/AIDS report experiencing increased respect and decreased isolation; participants report increased capacity to respond and commit to carrying out the plan; and Smithers has become a supportive environment. The project will contribute to the development of the Northern Health Authority's HIV/Blood-Borne Pathogens Service Plan.

Positive Women's Network and YouthCO

Address: Positive Women's Network
1033 Davie Street, Suite #614
Vancouver, BC V6E 1M7
Telephone: (604) 692-3000
Fax: (604) 684-3126
E-mail: pwn@pwn.bc.ca
Web Site: www.pwn.bc.ca

Address: YouthCO AIDS Society
#205 - 1104 Hornby Street
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V8
Telephone: (604) 688-1441
Fax: (604) 688-4932
E-mail: information@youthco.org
Web Site: www.youthco.org

Title: Women's Initiatives for Support and Education (WISE) Project

Description:

Established in 1991, the Positive Women's Network provides support, advocacy and information services to women living with HIV throughout British Columbia. YouthCO, established in 1994, undertakes HIV and hepatitis C peer support, outreach, prevention, education and volunteer training for youth aged 15 to 29 throughout British Columbia.

The evaluation data from a recent collaborative project between the Positive Women's Network and YouthCO underscore an urgent need for support and education for young women living with HIV/AIDS. Health care providers concur and report that more young women are being tested and diagnosed with HIV.

The project sponsors, in collaboration with Aboriginal organizations, clinics and community stakeholders in Vancouver, are working with young HIV-positive women to achieve two objectives: the creation of peer-driven, safe and supportive environments, particularly in the Downtown Eastside; and an increase in their participation in the development and direction of their own care, treatment, support and prevention initiatives.

Based on proven approaches, the project sponsors are undertaking activities that include: establishing focus groups with young women living with HIV/AIDS at each partner clinic; assessing current programs and practices; developing and distributing information resources; and delivering workshops on secondary prevention. An evaluation plan will track the following expected outcomes: increased understanding by young HIV-positive women about what they need to increase and maintain wellness; increased participation in their own care and support programs; increased access to integrated, culturally-relevant services and resources by young HIV-positive Aboriginal women within participating organizations; establishment of one peer support initiative in each clinic site; and a model of peer-based support for young HIV-positive women that is transferable to other settings.

Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society

Address: Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society
1107 - 7330 137th Street
Surrey, BC V3W 1A3
Telephone: (604) 597-0205
Fax: (604) 597-4299
Web Site: www.sdiss.org

Title: Transmit Knowledge, not HIV - A Fraser Region Prevention Initiative for the South Asian Community

Description:

The Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society, incorporated as a non-profit society in 1978, provides a range of culturally appropriate, language-specific services and programs to immigrant and refugee communities in Surrey, Delta, White Rock and Langley. These include outreach, information, education, skill development, prevention initiatives and counselling.

In 2003, the Fraser Health Authority identified South Asians as being the third largest group of HIV-positive men and fourth largest group of HIV-positive women. South Asians account for 25 per cent of reported heterosexual transmissions, but as only 3.26 per cent of the South Asian population have been tested, incidence is greatly under-estimated. Low testing is consistent with the culturally based general reluctance to acknowledge the existence of HIV/AIDS within this population.

Guided by an advisory group, the project targets South Asian populations from India, Pakistan and Fiji. Information brochures about HIV/AIDS issues and community resources are being translated into Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu languages and being made available to community services in the Fraser Health Region for distribution. Popular local ethnic media and talk shows are being used to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. Youth and seniors are being reached through flyers, workshops at the khalsa school and presentations at temples and seniors' centres. Based on a previously successful outreach Asian model, barbers, beauty salon owners and truckers are being trained as peer educators. Canadian peer education training material is being culturally and linguistically adapted. Networking meetings are being arranged with community service organizations and doctors to increase cultural sensitivity to South Asian people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS and their families. An evaluation plan will track the following expected outcomes: implementation of an effective outreach prevention model for hard to reach South Asian adults; increased knowledge in the South Asian community about HIV/AIDS; and increased use of community services by South Asians living with/affected by HIV/AIDS.

WISH Drop-In Centre Society

Address: WISH Drop-In Centre Society
515 - 119 West Pender St.
Vancouver, BC V6B 1S5
Telephone: (604) 669-9474
Fax: (604) 669-9479
E-mail: wishdropincentre@telus.net
Web Site: www.wish-vancouver.net

Title: HIV/AIDS and Survival Sex Worker Project

Description:

The WISH Drop-In Centre Society was incorporated as a non-profit society in 1991 to increase the health, safety and well-being of women working in the sex trade in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Its purpose is to assess, support and undertake programs and activities designed to fulfill this mission.

Women in the survival sex trade in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside are at an extremely high risk for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. Although there is an under-reporting of HIV in this population, it is estimated that 40 per cent of the women that the WISH Drop-In Centre Society serves are HIV-positive. Evidence indicates that antiretroviral therapy has helped to reduce morbidity and mortality while improving the quality of life for many HIV-positive individuals. Recent findings indicate that HIV-positive women in the sex trade have a low uptake of antiretroviral therapy due to inaccessible health care, threats of violence, judgmental attitudes by service providers, low self-esteem and fear of stigma and discrimination by peers.

Using gender-specific and participatory methods, the project works with female sex workers and other stakeholders to determine needed HIV/AIDS treatment and support programs, including effective antiretroviral therapy distribution methods; develop and distribute culturally relevant, accessible HIV/AIDS information; and train peer support workers in facilitation, coordination and outreach skills. Activities include focus groups, development of brochures and pocket-sized information cards, workshops, public meetings and wellness nights, all planned and facilitated by the women. Peer outreach workers will partner with community health workers in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside to distribute the information produced. An evaluation plan will track the following expected outcomes: increased knowledge about HIV/AIDS by sex trade workers; awareness by service providers of effective antiretroviral therapy distribution methods and needed HIV/AIDS treatment and support services identified by this population; increased access to user-friendly, HIV/AIDS prevention information; and trained peer support workers willing to provide ongoing leadership and contact on the issues.

Asian Society for the Intervention of AIDS

Address: Asian Society for the Intervention of AIDS
Suite 210 - 119 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 1S5
Telephone: (604) 669-5567
Fax: (604) 669-7756
E-mail: asia@asia.bc.ca
Web Site: www.asia.bc.ca

Title: The ORCHID Project: Outreach and Research in Community Health Initiatives and Development

Description:

ACAP project funding will enable the Asian Society for the Intervention of AIDS (ASIA) to implement a peer-delivered HIV/AIDS education and prevention initiative for Asian female sex workers employed in massage parlours and escort agencies throughout Vancouver and the B.C. Lower Mainland.

Established in 1995, ASIA is a community-based, non-profit organization that provides culturally appropriate and language-specific support, outreach, advocacy, education and research to Asian populations living with or at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.

The evidence confirms that the large number of Asian female sex workers in Greater Vancouver are at high risk of HIV infection. Highly marginalized, this group has extremely limited access to health education, medical and community outreach services. Furthermore, no education and training materials specifically developed for this target group exist, either locally or nationally.

The goal of this project is to increase awareness among Asian female sex workers of factors related to HIV/AIDS transmission and increase their skills and knowledge about protecting themselves from HIV infection. In partnership with community groups, the Vancouver Injection Drug User Study (VIDUS), the UBC Department of Healthcare and Epidemiology and the BC Centre for Disease Control, ASIA proposes to respond to this critical gap by undertaking a set of activities that include a needs assessment through focus groups with sex workers and community-based sex trade worker organizations; the development, implementation and evaluation of a peer training model, including a standardized curriculum; devising baseline and follow-up knowledge assessment questionnaires for participants; and outreach to the target population by way of weekly visits to 32 massage parlours and escort agencies by "buddy teams" of trained peers. These sessions will consist of small group workshops that include demonstrations and role-playing situations.

An evaluation plan will assess the project's effectiveness by measuring indicators of success, such as a cohort of trained peer educators; outreach activities to 32 massage parlours and escort agencies; and an increase in participants' knowledge of factors associated with HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention assessed through baseline and subsequent survey scores.