Positive Focus

positive focus Spring 2012

www.stapinc.org

Serving Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga & Tompkins Counties

from the director

I HAVE BEEN REMINDED ANEW RECENTLY OF WHY I LOVE WORKING AT STAP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ADMINISTRATION

Paul Rushanski President Jamie Cornell Vice President Michael Grasso Treasurer Ralph Klotzbaugh Secretary Jerry Halbert Member-at-Large

John Barry Executive Director Michelle McElroy Director of Programs Mary Kaminsky Director of Development Julie Kerr Director of Finance Joseph Caminiti Director of Information Systems Jackie Centerwall Director of Operations Candace Phelan Volunteer Coordinator Cynthia Rotella Special Events Coordinator Anne Baron Fiscal Assistant Ginny Miller Program Assistant Glenda Oliver Receptionist Katrina Roehrig Human Resources Administrator Jeffrey Pryor Prison Reentry Coordinator Timothy Giordani Intensive Case Manger Reentry

Joyce Allen Larry Bailey Grant Best Tina Ruocco Dolan Anthony Fiala, Jr. Angelo Fiori Kristen Harding Helen Higgenbotham Joshua Ludzki Nancy McGowan Pamela Mischen Jason Pickart

and why I believe it has spoiled me for any other workplace. We are allowed to do what is needed with minimal interference.

STAP was contacted several months ago by the Cortland County Health Department (CCHD).

They had discovered a group of Hepatitis C+ individuals and as they began tracing contacts and doing more testing more infections emerged. The majority of these infections were due to injection drug use and so the CCHD reached out to us to begin a conversation in their community about providing syringe exchange services in Cortland as STAP already does in Ithaca and Johnson City. As a component of this process we decided to survey injection drug users in Cortland and find out

what they needed and what they thought would work best to

will be asking their syringe exchange program participants to

prevent further infections.

complete the survey. I expect that in the future the survey may be disseminated more widely and that the data gathered

Several conference calls ensued with the CCHD, the NYS AIDS

will impact policy on syringe exchange programs and hopefully

Institute and STAP, planning how best to gather this information

funding for Hepatitis C prevention and care.

and have the most impact in our interactions with survey participants. As the survey was developed, a staff member

Allow me to be clear about this, STAP could not have

from the federal Center for Disease Control (CDC) joined us

accomplished this alone… nor would we want to try. Every

to help with the survey development process. The survey, it

organization mentioned above came freely to the table, left

should come as no surprise, is thorough—52 questions thorough.

their organizational ego at the door and gave what they could

We are also offering HIV and Hepatitis C testing to survey

without strings or expectations and this is why it worked. We

participants with the results linked anonymously to their survey

are grateful to all of them.

data, vouchers for syringes at local pharmacies, information on preventing Hepatitis C infections and enrollment in our existing

The week that we piloted the survey we had enough time slots

syringe exchange programs. With the help of staff from the NYS

to see 16 people, we saw 17. Eight people were tested and three

Health Department AIDS Institute and the CDC, the survey data

were Hepatitis C+. These people were immediately set up with

that we collect will be published as research and presented

a doctor’s appointment for follow up care. Clearly, the injection

at nationwide conferences. The collaboration of the federal,

drug using community in Cortland exists and wishes their voice

state, county and private nonprofit organizations to respond to

to be part of the discussion. We at STAP are privileged and

this public health crisis is a model that may become a best

honored to be entrusted with this important task and to receive

practice as we are collectively pushed to work together to

the support of so many fine organizations in doing it. That, in

maximize the return on limited resources.

the final analysis, is why I love it here. I am allowed to do good meaningful work.

Now that the survey has been designed and piloted, the AIDS

SOUTHERN TIER AIDS PROGRAM 122 Baldwin Street Johnson City, New York 13790 Hotline: (800) 333-0892 Phone: (607) 798-1706

CLIENT SERVICES Stacy Nickerson Client Services | Medical Advocacy Coordinator Jean Wilson Assistant Director of Client Services Andrea Pinney Housing Coordinator Michael Leahey Housing Specialist Jennifer McKenzie Housing Specialist Autumn Cook Medical Advocate Kristina Hagen Client Services Data Specialist Gry Bente-Johansen Case Manager Chemung Elke Meyer Case Manager Chemung Terri Shields Case Manager Broome Lisa Moore Case Manager Broome Elizabeth McDonald Case Manager Broome Cassandra Aikman Case Manager Tompkins Beth Pittman Case Manager Tech

PREVENTION SERVICES Cathy Sostre Assistant Director of Prevention Services Joe Barnett Assistant Director of Prevention Services Amy Henry LGBT Program Coordinator Alisa Reynolds Substance Use Outreach Coordinator Kernalia Andrews Women’s Outreach Coordinator Claudia Miller Women’s Services Educator Simone Cornelius Women’s Services Data Assistant Jeff Dunlap LGBT Youth Educator Lillian Fan Harm Reduction Coordinator Thomas Womelsdorf Harm Reduction Educator Jesse Natishak Syringe Exchange Technician Hanna Weiss Syringe Exchange Technician Bryan Cook Criminal Justice Prevention Specialist Stephen Gleason Mpowerment Specialist Noah Cooper Mpowerment Specialist Eric Kovatchitch Testing & Referral Specialist

Institute has reached out to Catholic Charities of Albany who 2

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recent events

2012 AIDS WALK RUN There was something for everyone at this year’s 15th annual

An event of this magnitude could not be possible without the

AIDS Walk Run. Whether you were young or old, an avid runner

help and generosity of many, many people and speaks to the

or mild enthusiast, highly competitive or just staying the course,

compassionate spirit of our community. A huge thank you goes

we had you covered, literally. This year’s event was held in the

out to our 18 local businesses, whose generous sponsorship

Greater Binghamton Sports Complex Dome on Airport Road. Not

allowed us to add the “twist” and new location this year. Thank

only did we have a new location, but there was also a new twist

you also to the ever faithful and talented Phil Messina and his

in the variety of events offered. In addition

balloon creations; to our DJ and announcer, Russell Swanger, for

to the 5K Walk and the 5K Run was

keeping things moving; to Trent Patterson

the infamous “Patterson’s Punisher”

and Brian Kittle, who designed the obstacle

obstacle course. Participants were

course; and of course to all the donors,

also given the choice to participate

participants and volunteers.

sponsors

WITH A TWIST!

WHAT A SUCCESS!

Excellus BCBS

AIDS Walk Run 2012 raised over

$60,000

Every year the AIDS Walk/Run

TOP THREE INDIVIDUALS

PAUL RUSHANSKI

proves to be a shining example Trent

Patterson’s

obstacle

course

of community at its best:

brought a new level of excitement and

people

emotion into the day’s events. The

to make a difference, by

way Patterson and his team guided, cheered, and encouraged each participant

to

dig

deep

coming

together

ensuring that we are able to continue our efforts of HIV+ individuals and state of

in order to reach their

the art prevention education,

personal

in the hopes of a brighter

victories

is

similar to the way STAP has helped so many people over the years overcome

JOSHUA LUDZKI

DEDE KUPPS

providing supportive services to

through each obstacle

education, compassion, and most

WBNG TV 12

$3,631 $2,838

Training for Life Systems GOLD SPONSORS Outback Steakhouse Starbucks Remlik’s Frito Lay Broome Tioga BOCES Wendy’s

J&K Plumbing and Heating Co., Inc. M&T Bank

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

$21,157 $2,838

BRONZE SPONSORS

DIVA’S

$1,812

Belknap Lumber, Inc.

future for all.

BEARS OF BINGHAMTON | positive focus

$8,600

TOP THREE TEAMS

importantly, hope.

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PLATINUM SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

obstacles in their lives by offering supportive services and resources,

UHS

Greater Binghamton Sports Complex

in one, two or all three events, if they were up for the challenge.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Price Chopper The Pharmacy

Lourdes Hospital Lowe’s Target www.stapinc.org

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upcoming events

journeys

it’s ofFIcal! the new M4

The time is approaching again for STAP’s annual client retreat,

It’s official! The Cube has successfully transitioned to M4. The

Journeys. This three-day, two-night event is held every year

process took three months to complete, from renaming the

in mid-June at a private setting in Broome County. Journeys is

center to applying the last coat of paint. The new décor is

designed to provide the agency’s clients with a rare opportunity

very modern and creates a relaxing atmosphere. The staff and

to get away, explore themselves, and make connections to the

peers at M4 are eager to offer services to young gay, bisexual,

world around them. Clients use this time to meet new friends, learn stress management skills, explore their spirituality, and

transgender and other men who have sex with men ages 18-30

promote their own personal growth and wellness. Each year

out of their newly renovated center.

approximately 50 clients participate in a variety of activities that include: massage, crafts, hiking, haircuts, campfires,

To celebrate M4’s grand opening they will be hosting a variety

support groups, jewelry making, and quiet time to just reflect

of events during the month of June. On Friday June 1st, during

and recuperate. New clients attend this unique experience each

Binghamton’s First Friday Art walk from 6pm-10pm M4 will be

year, and returning clients are involved in the planning process

open to the public. Peers and Staff will be offering tours of the

so as to ensure a client-centered approach and greater program

center and refreshments to guests.

satisfaction. Transportation is provided to the site, to allow clients from all over the STAP service region to participate.

As part of Binghamton’s Pride Month, M4 will be hosting our 1st

Journeys is made possible each year by the dedication of our local communities, volunteers, staff members, and professionals

Annual Mr. Pride Competition. Voting will take place via M4’s

who donate their time and resources to make this event a

Facebook page and five finalists will be chosen and displayed

success.

Re-Gifting Campaign During the retreat, we like to have fun giveaways, because who doesn’t like winning a raffle or door prize? We seek new or gently used items that can be made into gift baskets or even given away as a grand prize—a Re-Gifting Campaign.

Did you receive a present that is too good to throw away, but is taking up space in your home because you’ll never use it?

Extra event tickets or gift cards? Consider donating them to the retreat and all items will be given directly to STAP clients. Other suggested re-gifts include, small appliances and electronics, home décor, non-perishable food, toys, pet supplies, games, camping, personal hygiene, and anything else that can be

UI LG ER A

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during M4’s First Friday Event! The top five will compete on during Saturday, June 9th between 4pm-8pm in a variety of challenges. Each challenge will eliminate one finalist until there is only one last man standing.

For more information about these events,

In addition to M4’s Mr. Pride Competition, M4 will be hosting the

visit m4project.com

“Out and Loud Block Party” following Pride Palooza, Saturday, June 9th, on State Street in Binghamton from 8pm-10pm with

Don’t forget to like

DJ Sonny King, playing today’s best dance music. Come out and

their Facebook page!

celebrate Pride with M4!

facebook.com/m4project

combined with other items to make a nice give-away.

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don’t be left on the porch...

JOIN US FOR THE 10TH ANNUAL

doggone fun on the run

discover your inner hero Join us for the 14th annual AIDS Ride for Life on September 15th, 2012. We challenge you to discover a way to become involved in this incredible event. Over 350 cyclists bike 42, 50, 90 or 100 miles around Cayuga Lake. You can sponsor riders, volunteer your time as a volunteer, a motorcyclist or even

WHO

Southern Tier AIDS Program

a support vehicle driver! We want you to be a part of this community event.

WHAT

Doggone Fun on the Run The event shows the commitment of our community to be a

Ready to have some doggone fun? Join us on July 21, 2012 for the 10th annual Doggone Fun on the Run, a 2-mile fundraising walk/ run in Otsiningo Park followed by a post party. The Doggone Fun on the Run is the premier canine event of the season.

Funds raised support the Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) program at the Southern Tier AIDS Program. The PAWS program

WHEN

July 21, 2012

presence, to bear witness and to support those impacted by HIV

10 AM Goodie Bag Pick-Up

and AIDS so that they will not have to be alone.

11 AM Walk Begins Each rider has their own reasons for riding. Many may ride in

WHERE Otsiningo Park, Binghamton

support someone in their lives affected by the disease. Please WHY

The Doggone Fun on the Run supports the

read the small excerpt here from one of our heroes, Mark

PAWS Program at STAP.

Pederson, on why he rides.

HOW

Register online at doggonefunontherun.org

For the full story and more stories like this, stay tuned to

offers HIV+ people practical support in an effort to keep the love and companionship of their pets. Don't be left on the porch!

honor of a family member or a friend lost to AIDS, or even to

aidsrideforlife.org as we release stories from many of our heroes leading up to the 14th annual AIDS Ride for Life!

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e of it ea ch d I am aw ar an an m y ry lu ck “I am on e ve in th e va st ar e th at I am aw e it qu m al so day. A n d I’ pe ople w ho m any ot h er so e ar e er at th m ay m inor it y; th bi rt h , et c, s, pl ac e of ce en ri pe r li fe ex du e to th ei li ke I h av e. at th e od ds an ce to be ch e th e not h av ag en cy in lo ca l A ID S ar d of th e bo e th ed su m er ” of W h en I join ic e of a “c on elp be a vo h to d te I st op pe d 19 9 9 I w an e w ent on , es . A s ti m ic rv se ’s ra titu de th e ag en cy a debt of g but fe lt su ch er m su n th at I bein g a co be en g iv en supp or t I’d d an p el h ss ib le . for al l th e any w ay po e to h elp in u n ti n co w ante d to

e th an e I w as mor of T h e R id s ar ye n te t st op F or th e fi rs at th e fi rs t C oord in at or op St it P e th ri ders h ap py to be de d ic at ed g so m any n ri ee ch ke ev en my alon g th e la ti m es an d de se vera l ro er n rt pa is e alon g. My d th em to ra I en co u ra ge as e ic tw de g ra tefu l.” te en son ro e w er e al l to w h ic h w cy en ag fu n ds for an

thanks

get away with jetaway!

AIDS WALK Run 2012

Look who adopted Robbie’s Pantry! The Student Assembly of

Many thanks go out to the 90 volunteers who gave so generously

Broome Community College, that’s who. They collected over

of their time to make our AIDS Walk/Run with a Twist so

$250.00 of merchandise during the month of February and into

successful.

the month of March 2012. Robbie’s Pantry was established for

especially when we have an event.

the clients of STAP to use as a last resort. It holds items that are not available in other pantries or can be purchased with food stamps. Willie Murray spearheaded the project by making announcements to faculty and students and then placeed collection boxes around the campus. Many thanks go out to Willie and his fellow Broome Community College students.

We would also like to thank Beth Harrington and the Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response, JoAnn Lindstrom with The College of Community and Public Affairs and the Division of External Affairs. They adopted Robbie’s pantry in April 2012.

STAP is so appreciative of all our volunteers

STAP’S ROCK STAR CELEBRITY BARTENDING BASH There was a full-house for the 2012 annual Bartending Bash.

Travel Your Jetaway Travel Consultant Judy Wendland 607-754-5856 jwendland@uni-world.com

Hundreds of people came out to enjoy the festivities and tip their favorite bartenders! A record-breaking $15,080.00 was raised. A huge thank you to: Remlik’s, Laura, Barbara & Joanie Ellis, Candace Chapman, Andrea Vaioli, Brett Chellis, Jordan Patch, Chris Waters, Dr. Colin Marcus, Tony Fiala, Jason Fiume, Michael Libous, Mayor Ryan, Steven Nanni, Katrina, DeDe Kupps, Dusty Boxx, Chris Pellicano, Marina Huebner, Joan Marean, Angelo Fiori, a host of

To obtain more information on how you can adopt the pantry

STAP volunteers and to all the guest for making this event

please contact Candace Phelan at cphelan@stapinc.org or by

such a success. We hope to see you again next year!

calling 1800-333-0892 ext. 225.

Wo

rld

Robbie’s Pantry

Planning to travel? When you book your cruise, tour, flights or other travel arrangements with Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel, a portion of the commission with be donated to STAP. As part of the new Jetaway Travel Ambassador program, Judi is partnering with select non-profit agencies to help raise funds for their organizations and make a positive impact within the community.

Call Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel and mention that you are a supporter of STAP when you make your booking.

Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel... a Friend Who Cares!

Volunteering If you want to volunteer, please email Candace Phelan, cphelan@stapinc.org, or call 800-333-0892 ext. 225, and let her know what you would like to do.

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Southern Tier AIDS Program, Inc. 122 Baldwin Street Johnson City, NY 13790

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Albany, NY PERMIT # 164 ZIP CODE 12205

Spring 2012

STAP

is serving more men, women, and children than ever in our nearly 30 years of providing services. Say “I care” by sending your gift today. Your generosity makes a difference!

Yes! I can help the Southern Tier AIDS Program continue to provide services for people living with HIV/AIDS and provide prevention services to help reduce the rate of HIV infection in the Southern Tier. Enclosed is my tax-deductible donation of:

❑ $25

❑ $50

❑ $100

❑ $250

❑ Other: $_________

Checks should be made payable to:

STAP, 122 Baldwin St., Johnson City, NY 13790 Please charge my donation to my:

❑ Visa

❑ Mastercard

Name:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

CC#: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Address:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Exp. Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

______________________ __________________

Signature:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

friends who care