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===Publication of Safe Sex Guidelines===
===Publication of Safe Sex Guidelines===
In December 1988, the [[Canadian AIDS Society]], in collaboration with AIDS organizations such as AIDS Vancouver and the Vancouver Lymphadenopathy/AIDS Study, published the first [[safe sex]] guidelines for Canada titled 'Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors.'<ref>{{cite book |title=Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors |publisher=Canadian AIDS Society |location=Ottawa |date=December 1988 |isbn=0-921906-00-5 |url=https://archive.org/details/safer-sex-guidelines |access-date=10 February 2024 }}</ref>
In December 1988, the [[Canadian AIDS Society]], in collaboration with AIDS organizations such as AIDS Vancouver and the Vancouver Lymphadenopathy/AIDS Study, published the first [[safe sex]] guidelines for Canada titled 'Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors.'<ref>{{cite book |title=Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors |publisher=Canadian AIDS Society |location=Ottawa |date=December 1988 |isbn=0-921906-00-5 |url=https://archive.org/details/safer-sex-guidelines |access-date=10 February 2024 }}</ref>

===Gay Games III: Vancouver 1990===
The [[Gay Games#Gay Games III: Vancouver 1990|1990 Gay Games]] took place in Vancouver, British Columbia, from August 4 to 11, 1990. Approximately 7,300 athletes participated in 27 sports, with an additional 1,500 cultural participants. The opening and closing ceremonies were hosted at [[BC Place|BC Place Stadium]]. This was the first games to be held outside the United States and the first in which Masters world records, with two set in swimming. These Games aimed to raise awareness about AIDS and promote inclusivity.<ref>{{cite web |title=Opening Ceremonies: Out and Proud |url=https://www.communitystories.ca/v2/celebration-1990-canadas-gay-games_gay-games-du-canada/story/opening-ceremonies-part-one/ |publisher=Digital Museums Canada |date=2 May 2019 |access-date=20 February 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Opening & Closing Ceremonies |url=http://archive.vivomediaarts.com/category/opening-and-closing-ceremonies/ |author=Mary Anne McEwen |publisher=VIVO’s Crista Dahl Media Library & Archive |date=August 1990 |access-date=20 February 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Gay Games III Makes History |url=https://www.communitystories.ca/v2/celebration-1990-canadas-gay-games_gay-games-du-canada/story/the-games-make-history/ |publisher=Digital Museums Canada |date=2 May 2019 |access-date=20 February 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Celebration '90 Gay Games III |url=http://archive.vivomediaarts.com/gay-games-iii/ |author=Mary Anne McEwen fonds |publisher=VIVO’s Crista Dahl Media Library & Archive |date=10 August 2017 |access-date=20 February 2024 }}</ref>

Notably, Mark Mees, the Executive Director of the [[Gay Games#Gay Games III: Vancouver 1990|Vancouver Gay Games III]], later became the Executive Director at AIDS Vancouver from March 1991 to January 1994.<ref>{{cite news |title=Civil-liberties association studies Gay Games lottery-grant rejection |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/495088145/ |publisher=The Vancouver Sun News |date=September 13, 1990 |page=16 |access-date=20 February 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Mark Mees: 1992- Coming Together in a Time of Great Loss |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvAnnJZwHEI&t=28s |publisher=30 30 AIDS Vancouver |format=YouTube |date=24 March 2014 |access-date=20 February 2024 |time=0m28s}}</ref>


==Funding and Support==
==Funding and Support==

Revision as of 17:24, 20 February 2024

AIDS Vancouver
Vancouver AIDS Society
FoundedEarly in 1983
FoundersGordon Price
Noah Stewart
Dr. Mike Maynard
Daryl Nelson
Ron Alexander Slater
TypeCharity (Society Act of BC)[1]
August 4, 1983; 41 years ago (1983-08-04)
FocusHIV/AIDS
Headquarters401-1101 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC
V6B 0R1
Area served
Lower Mainland
ServicesSupport, counselling, resource centre, outreach, grocery program, and advocacy.
Executive Director
Sarah Chown
Revenue$2,427,267 (2023)[2]
EmployeesFull-time 4, Part-time 27
Volunteers200[3]
Websiteaidsvancouver.org

AIDS Vancouver, founded in early 1983, is one of Canada's oldest non-profit organizations dedicated to addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis in the Vancouver area. Led by co-founders Gordon Price, Noah Stewart, Dr. Mike Maynard, Daryl Nelson, and Ron Alexander Slater, the organization has played a crucial role in providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. With a focus on grassroots efforts and community mobilization, AIDS Vancouver has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the spread of HIV and improve the quality of life for those living with the virus.

Background

Of the 37.7 million people with HIV worldwide, more than 60,000 reside in Canada. British Columbia has a disproportionately high prevalence rate of HIV for Canada, with over a fifth of the HIV positive population found in BC.[4] Increases in the prevalence of HIV in Vancouver can be attributed to high incidence among Men who have sex with Men (MSM) and Injection Drug Users (IDU), which occurred in the 1980s and 1990s, respectively.[5] (as of 2022).

History

Early Concerns and Observations

In the early 1980s, as reports from the New York Native about a deadly disease circulating within gay communities across the United States spread, concerns heightened in Vancouver.

In mid-1982, four doctors, Dr. Brian Willoughby, Dr. Bruce Douglas, Dr. Peter Constance, and Dr. Michael Maynard, who regularly treated gay patients in their medical practices, convened for lunch. The conversation turned to the observation of swollen lymph glands and other unusual symptoms in their patients. This meeting marked the inception of the Vancouver Lymphadenopathy - AIDS study.[6]

In November 1982, Gordon Price hosted a small dinner party in Vancouver's West End, attended by Noah Stewart, Dr. Mike Maynard, Ron Alexander Slater, and a close friend. During the gathering, Ron shared an article from The Village Voice discussing Gay-Related Immune Deficiency (GRID), often referred to as "gay cancer," sparking a discussion about its potential impact on Vancouver's gay community.[7][8]

This conversation initiated the group's recognition of the need for local action in response to the emerging AIDS cases. They began reaching out to others in their social circles, understanding the urgency of the situation. This grassroots effort marked the beginning stages of what would later evolve into AIDS Vancouver, as concerned individuals mobilized to address the growing crisis "around the kitchen table."[9]

Formation of AIDS Vancouver

With much about AIDS still unknown, including its transmission, the epidemic cast a foreboding shadow, cloaked in uncertainty. Taking cues from the efforts in New York City, Gordon Price and co-founders Noah Stewart, Dr. Mike Maynard, Daryl Nelson, and Ron Alexander Slate, the man who started it all, took decisive action. They founded AIDS Vancouver in early 1983, one of Canada's first AIDS service organizations, with a mission to offer support to those impacted by the virus.[10]

AIDS Vancouver officially incorporated as the Vancouver AIDS Society under the Society Act of BC on August 4, 1983. This formalized its status as a nonprofit organization and provided a legal framework for its activities.[1]

Collaboration with Paul Popham

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Gordon Price sought assistance from Paul Popham, a co-founder of the Gay Men's Health Crisis organization in New York City.[11] Paul promptly traveled to Vancouver to offer his expertise, leading to the first AIDS Information Forum convened by AIDS Vancouver on March 12, 1983, at the Westend Community Centre. This gathering united various speakers to address critical issues related to the epidemic, including contributions from Dr. Maynard and Dr. Willoughby.[12] The presentations, notably Paul Popham's, were filmed, capturing invaluable insights and marking a significant milestone in AIDS Vancouver's early efforts.[13]

Intensified Efforts and Media Attention

In April 1983, amidst the growing crisis, AIDS Vancouver intensified its efforts to disseminate crucial information. During this period, an article in the Vancouver Sun reported two deaths and seven cases of the disease. Ron Alexander, a founding member of AIDS Vancouver, emphasized the urgency of the situation, asking, "How many more have to die before somebody does something about it?"[14]

Initially, the organization operated from the founders' homes, hosting monthly public meetings at the Lotus Hotel. AIDS Vancouver moved to a Davie Street location in 1983.[15]

In October 1985, four cherry trees were planted near Stanley Park in memory of James, Ivo, Gino, and Randy, who succumbed to AIDS. Named "Our Cherry Grove" within the gay community, it served as a poignant tribute. To shield the trees from potential vandalism fuelled by AIDS/HIV stigma, an AIDS Vancouver spokesperson kept the location undisclosed.[16]

Pioneering AIDS Public Health Efforts

In 1984, Dr. John Blatherwick was appointed Medical Health Officer for Vancouver. He played a key role in coordinating services and disseminating researched information about AIDS. Dr. Blatherwick communicated clearly and directly with the media, voicing authoritative opinions on health issues that often appeared on the front pages of newspapers.[17][18]

Expansion and Municipal Support

Alan Herbert, a board member at AIDS Vancouver, played a crucial role in securing municipal support from the City of Vancouver. In 1987, the city provided AIDS Vancouver with an initial funding of $50,000. This financial assistance enabled the organization to establish an office and hire staff, including Michael Welsh and Elaine Smith, who developed Canada's first support programs for AIDS. Bob Tibby was also appointed as an executive coordinator to bolster support initiatives. These efforts were undertaken amidst pervasive fear and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, as case numbers surged to epidemic levels. Subsequently, AIDS Vancouver relocated its office in 1988.[19][20]

Publication of Safe Sex Guidelines

In December 1988, the Canadian AIDS Society, in collaboration with AIDS organizations such as AIDS Vancouver and the Vancouver Lymphadenopathy/AIDS Study, published the first safe sex guidelines for Canada titled 'Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors.'[21]

Gay Games III: Vancouver 1990

The 1990 Gay Games took place in Vancouver, British Columbia, from August 4 to 11, 1990. Approximately 7,300 athletes participated in 27 sports, with an additional 1,500 cultural participants. The opening and closing ceremonies were hosted at BC Place Stadium. This was the first games to be held outside the United States and the first in which Masters world records, with two set in swimming. These Games aimed to raise awareness about AIDS and promote inclusivity.[22][23][24][25]

Notably, Mark Mees, the Executive Director of the Vancouver Gay Games III, later became the Executive Director at AIDS Vancouver from March 1991 to January 1994.[26][27]

Funding and Support

AIDS Vancouver operates with the assistance of 31 paid staff and approximately 200 dedicated volunteers, collectively contributing over 20,000 hours of service annually, equivalent to an estimated $400,000 in value. The organization offers vital services such as case management, a grocery program, a resource center, a helpline, and various support programs.[3]

Currently, the organization receives 80% of its funding from federal and provincial sources, with an additional 12% provided by donors. The remaining 8% is generated through fund development activities. Major contributors include the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, Public Health Agency of Canada, and the BC Gaming Commission.[28]

In 2009, AIDS Vancouver partnered with the U.S. nonprofit TeachAids to distribute state-of-the-art educational materials developed at developed at Stanford University to their constituent groups.[29][30]

Client Services

By 1998, AIDS Vancouver reached a new milestone, with nearly 16,000 clients served, and the helpline receiving 1600 calls.

Client services are central to AIDS Vancouver's work. Over 146 new clients were added in 2009 and made use of numerous different services such as Case Management, Grocery and Nutritional Advice and the Helpline. In 2014, a new service was added - the Health Promotion Case Management (HPCM) - which is focused on prevention of new cases of HIV.

Case Management

In 2001, AIDS Vancouver partnered with the Mexican Persons With AIDS Society, to exchange assistance, ideas and advocacy. The Case Management model was updated to its current form – the access and intensive streams.

The Case management team consists of 10 staff working out of four sites, to provide support to over 2000 clients living with HIV and linking them to appropriate levels of health care and social services. Sites are located in the Seymour St. office and in the Downtown East side, which cater specifically to the Aboriginal community and gay men. Most commonly, support is provided with income, housing or financial assistance.[31] The case management program consists of two streams – the access (short term or drop-in) and intensive (long term) streams. Roughly 150 new clients are added each year from all demographics – First Nations, women, men, children, and others.[32]

Community Resource Centre

The Community Resource Centre at AIDS Vancouver offers HIV information materials, including print resources, and a computer for accessing the CATIE database. Visitors can also order materials for further exploration. The center, operated by a team of staff and volunteers, provides assistance to those seeking information and support on HIV/AIDS.[33][34]

Grocery

In 2009 the AIDS Vancouver grocery program supplied roughly 16,000 bags of grocery to roughly 700 clients, working with 16 volunteers. The program offers a variety of supplemental nutrition items, such as fresh produce, cereals and grains, canned protein and hygiene items, in addition to bottled water. The grocery is open twice a week, for two weeks a month.

Help Line

The helpline and reception service provided anonymous and confidential information to over 11,000 inquiries in 2009 via walk-in, email, forums and telephone. Trained volunteers can answer queries pertaining to testing, safer sex, treatment and transmission of HIV.[citation needed]

Health Promotion Case Management (HPCM)

The HPCM program uses a comprehensive approach to health which positions HIV prevention within a broad and inclusive health framework. This program offers clients the opportunity to connect with a professional that can help them address the barriers that can impact their health and well-being.[35]

Special Events

AIDS Vancouver participates in the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life, the We Care Red Ribbon Campaign and World AIDS Day. On September 27, AIDS Vancouver held the popular Celebrity Dim Sum fund-raiser. The seventh annual event garnered an unprecedented $21,670, surpassing its 2013 goal by almost $3500. Every year, AIDS Vancouver hosts the Holiday Grocery which happens in December, providing festive groceries for up to 800 people in one day.

Governance

AIDS Vancouver, incorporated as the Vancouver AIDS Society, is a non-profit (cannot generate money) volunteer-led organization guided by the Society's 12-member Board of Directors. The Board ensures responsible policy development and meeting the mission statement and strategic direction. Four positions on the Board are reserved for those persons living with HIV. The 25 paid staff are led by an Executive Director who reports to and works closely with the Board.[citation needed]

AIDS Vancouver members participate by electing the board of directors at the society's Annual General Meeting and by participating occasionally in committees established by the Board.

Prevention & Education

The HIV Prevention & Awareness Programs aim to educate communities in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and to overcome stigma and stereotyping. The organization views information and knowledge as keys toward understanding and acceptance of HIV and AIDS. Workshops are offered by AIDS Vancouver's Prevention and Awareness Program to educate and give out trusted and accurate materials. AIDS Vancouver aims to provide a professional and interactive learning environment for its clients.

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Certified Copy of the Constitution and Bylaws" (PDF). Vancouver AIDS Society. October 2022. Retrieved 10 February 2024. Refer to bottom of page 1 for the original filing date on 1983/08/04 with the Province of British Columbia Registrar of Companies
  2. ^ "T3010 registered charity information returns". Canada Revenue Agency. 31 March 2023. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  3. ^ a b "Orientation Handbook" (PDF). Community Health Online Digital Archive & Research Resource. 2008. p. 20. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  4. ^ Brown, Michael Peter (1994). Locating Citizenship across the City Politics of AIDS in Vancouver, Canada (Thesis). University of British Columbia. p. 30. Retrieved February 10, 2024.
  5. ^ McInnes, Colin W; Druyts, Eric; Harvard, Stephanie S; Gilbert, Mark; Tyndall, Mark W; Lima, Viviane D; Wood, Evan; Montaner, Julio SG; Hogg, Robert S (2009-03-05). "HIV/AIDS in Vancouver, British Columbia: a growing epidemic". Harm Reduction Journal. 6: 5. doi:10.1186/1477-7517-6-5. ISSN 1477-7517. PMC 2662822. PMID 19265531.
  6. ^ "Before 1983: The Vancouver Doctors" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 28 February 2014. Event occurs at 6m43s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  7. ^ "The Gay Founding Fathers: The Dinner Party" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 28 February 2014. Event occurs at 2m6s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  8. ^ "AIDS Vancouver Orientation Handbook" (PDF). Prevention Services at AIDS Vancouver. 2008. p. 8. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  9. ^ "The Gay Founding Fathers: Evolution" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 28 February 2014. Event occurs at 3m19s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  10. ^ "British Columbia: An Untold History". British Columbia’s Knowledge Network. 21 October 2021. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  11. ^ "Assistance: AIDS Forum in Vancouver, 1983" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 12 March 1983. Event occurs at 1m19s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  12. ^ "AIDS Forum in Vancouver, 1983" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 12 March 1983. Event occurs at 0m19s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  13. ^ "Paul Popham speaking at the AIDS Forum in Vancouver, 1983" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 12 March 1983. Event occurs at 2m42s. Retrieved 10 February 2024. Facing the epidemic was the 'ultimate test of our strength'. – Paul Popham
  14. ^ "'gay plague' claims 2 lives". The Sun. 16 April 1983. Retrieved 10 February 2024. How many more have to die before somebody does something about it? - Ron Alexander
  15. ^ Brown, Michael Peter (1994). Locating Citizenship across the City Politics of AIDS in Vancouver, Canada (Thesis). University of British Columbia. p. 132. Retrieved February 13, 2024.
  16. ^ "Trees planted in memory of four B.C. AIDS victims". The Sun. October 21, 1985. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  17. ^ Kendall, Perry (December 2007). "Dr John Blatherwick—An appreciation". BC Medical Journal. 49 (10): 578. Retrieved 10 February 2024. I fought AIDS (and the provincial government of the day) in the front pages of the newspapers... trying to get the message out.
  18. ^ "Dr. John Blatherwick's Advocacy During the Early Days of the AIDS Epidemic" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 24 March 2014. Event occurs at 0m25s. Retrieved 10 February 2024. I got to battle the AIDS epidemic from the front pages of the newspaper, on the evening news, radio and television, and all the talk shows.
  19. ^ Joanne Lee-Young (April 16, 2023). "Former Vancouver city councillor and AIDS activist Alan Herbert dies at 78". Vancouver Sun. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  20. ^ "1987 - The First Funding: Alan Herbert" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 6 March 2014. Event occurs at 1m18s. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  21. ^ Safer Sex Guidelines: A Resource Document for Educators and Counsellors. Ottawa: Canadian AIDS Society. December 1988. ISBN 0-921906-00-5. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  22. ^ "Opening Ceremonies: Out and Proud". Digital Museums Canada. 2 May 2019. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  23. ^ Mary Anne McEwen (August 1990). "Opening & Closing Ceremonies". VIVO’s Crista Dahl Media Library & Archive. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  24. ^ "Gay Games III Makes History". Digital Museums Canada. 2 May 2019. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  25. ^ Mary Anne McEwen fonds (10 August 2017). "Celebration '90 Gay Games III". VIVO’s Crista Dahl Media Library & Archive. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  26. ^ "Civil-liberties association studies Gay Games lottery-grant rejection". The Vancouver Sun News. September 13, 1990. p. 16. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  27. ^ "Mark Mees: 1992- Coming Together in a Time of Great Loss" (YouTube). 30 30 AIDS Vancouver. 24 March 2014. Event occurs at 0m28s. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  28. ^ "Annual Report: Statement of operations" (PDF). Vancouver AIDS Society. 2022. p. 12. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  29. ^ Piya Sorcar (1 December 2010). "A New Approach to Global HIV/AIDS Education". The Huffington Post. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 December 2010.
  30. ^ "AIDS Vancouver uses TeachAIDS materials". TeachAids. 30 April 2009. Archived from the original on 19 July 2011. Retrieved 20 December 2010.
  31. ^ "Program: Community Case Management". HealthLinkBC. 2019. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  32. ^ "Provincial Best Practices in HIV Case Management" (PDF). British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS. 2021. p. 10. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  33. ^ "AIDS Vancouver Community Resource Centre". Archived from the original on 2011-07-24. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  34. ^ "Award-Winning Publications & Resources in HIV Treatment Information" (PDF). Community AIDS Treatment Information Exchange (CATIE). 2008. Retrieved 10 February 2024.
  35. ^ "AIDS Vancouver - Since 1983". Archived from the original on 2015-03-16. Retrieved 2015-04-06.
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