W e l c o m e t o t h e N o v e m b e r e d i t i o n o f t h e T o r o n t o H I V / A I D S N e t w o r k N e w s l e t t e r !
A s t h e l e a v e s c h a n g e a n d w e e m b r a c e t h e c o z y d a y s o f f a l l , w e r e f l e c t o n t h e
r e s i l i e n c e a n d s t r e n g t h o f o u r c o m m u n i t y . T h i s m o n t h , w e ’ r e e x c i t e d t o s h a r e
v a l u a b l e r e s o u r c e s , i n s p i r i n g s t o r i e s , a n d u p c o m i n g e v e n t s t h a t h i g h l i g h t
o u r c o l l e c t i v e e f f o r t s i n t h e f i g h t a g a i n s t H I V / A I D S .
I n t h i s i s s u e , y o u ’ l l f i n d i n f o r m a t i o n o n l o c a l s u p p o r t s e r v i c e s , a d v o c a c y
i n i t i a t i v e s , a n d w a y s t o g e t i n v o l v e d . L e t ’ s c o n t i n u e t o u p l i f t e a c h o t h e r ,
s h a r e k n o w l e d g e , a n d w o r k t o w a r d s a b r i g h t e r f u t u r e f o r a l l .
T h a n k y o u f o r b e i n g a v i t a l p a r t o f o u r c o m m u n i t y . T o g e t h e r , w e w i l l m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e !
W a r m r e g a r d s ,
T h e T o r o n t o H I V / A I D S N e t w o r k T e a m
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
UPDATE FROM THE THN MEMBERS MEETING
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the Toronto HIV/AIDS Network (THN) Members Meeting on November 6, 2024 Your active participation and valuable contributions are instrumental in guiding our work and ensuring that our network remains responsive to the needs of those on the ground
Key Takeaways from the Meeting:
Volunteer Training Evaluation and Next Steps: One of the highlights of the meeting was the presentation of the volunteer training evaluation In response, it was decided that an ad hoc working group, consisting of 5-6 members, will be formed to review the evaluation report in detail and make recommendations for the way forward This group will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our volunteer training efforts
Hybrid Capacity-Building Workshops: We are excited to announce the launch of a new hybrid capacity-building workshop series, set to begin in January 2025 These workshops will focus on strengthening and building relationships between our team members and participants across the network. In addition, they will help in understanding the current context by examining the drivers of change that affect our work and how we can adapt.
World AIDS Day Youth Dinner: In anticipation of World AIDS Day, we also shared information about the upcoming Youth Dinner, which will take place on November 30, 2024. This event will bring together young people from across the community to raise awareness, share experiences, and honor the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.
We encourage you to stay tuned for further details as these initiatives unfold. Once again, thank you for your engagement and commitment to our collective work. We look forward to continuing our efforts together in the months ahead.
Stay connected, and we’ll see you at the next meeting!
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
THE HUB
The Hub
The 163 Queen East Community HIV Health & Justice Hub, a project spearheaded by PWA (People With AIDS Foundation), has transformed 40,000 square feet of previously vacant office space in downtown Toronto into a vibrant center This initiative unites grassroots efforts in HIV/AIDS support, harm reduction, Trans care, and refugee and migrant action, all under one roof.
A Collective Vision for Change
The journey began in 2018 when seven HIV/AIDS organizations collaborated to envision a shared space that would provide culturally responsive health and social support. With invaluable contributions from members and a generous donation of the building from a private foundation, the team undertook months of volunteer-driven renovations In November 2023, they proudly opened their doors, welcoming the community to a hub alive with ideas and activities
Despite facing challenges, including shifts in the organizational landscape post-COVID, the hub engaged over 300 people living with HIV and impacted community members Their feedback highlighted the need for an intersectional approach to health, safety, and justice, paving the way for a dynamic and inclusive space.
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
THE
HUB
Celebrating Arts and Culture
The hub has also become a haven for creativity. With support from the Community One Foundation, a gallery space was launched, showcasing powerful art from local creators, including exhibitions that highlight the experiences of refugees and marginalized communities. The hub's ongoing commitment to cultural expression includes hosting events that celebrate LGBTQ+ identities and traditions, providing safe spaces for connection and joy
Looking Ahead
As the hub moves forward, its vision is expansive There is an aim to engage more tenant groups and ensure that access to space is regarded as a right, not a privilege. The commitment to revitalizing the Queen East corridor will foster an environment where everyone is welcome and supported.
Community members are invited to be part of this journey. Ideas for programs or initiatives are always welcome. Interested individuals can visit the building from Monday to Friday or contact the building manager at ggrant@pwatoronto org
NOVEMBER
COMMUNITY ALLIANCE FOR ACCESSIBLE TREATMENT (CAAT)
CELEBRATING YEARS
FROM ACHIEVEMENTS TO ASPIRATIONS: A LEGACY OF RESILENT COMMUNITY IMPACT
Founded in 1999, the Committee for Accessible AIDS Treatment (CAAT) was established to address the significant barriers to HIV treatment and services faced by newcomer people living with HIV/AIDS (PHAs). These individuals, often dealing with precarious immigration status, have historically encountered obstacles in accessing essential healthcare and support. For 25 years, CAAT has been at the forefront of advocating for the health, well-being, and empowerment of these communities, ensuring they have the resources and care they need to lead healthy, dignified lives.
CAAT is a coalition made up of individuals and organizations from various sectors, including health, legal, settlement, and HIV/AIDS services. The organization’s mission is to improve access to services for newcomer PHAs, ensuring that everyone living with HIV/AIDS, regardless of immigration status, has access to information, tools, and resources that promote their health and well-being CAAT’s vision is one of a more inclusive society, where all people living with HIV/AIDS can access health, social, and legal services that are welcoming and respectful
At the core of CAAT's work is its commitment to the voices and leadership of people living with HIV/AIDS The organization upholds the belief that health is holistic, encompassing physical, emotional, sexual, and spiritual wellbeing Through advocacy, education, and capacity-building, CAAT has helped create more inclusive, compassionate service environments, ensuring that the unique needs of newcomer PHAs are understood and addressed
As CAAT celebrates 25 years of impactful work, the organization remains dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent newcomer PHAs from accessing the care and support they need With gratitude for the partners, supporters, and community members who have been part of this journey, CAAT looks forward to continuing its vital work for years to come.
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
VOLUNTEER
SPOTLIGHT: ALEXIS TORRES – A DEDICATED ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE AT POSITIVO LATINOS
In this edition of the Toronto HIV/AIDS Network (THN) newsletter, we are excited to spotlight Alexis Torres, a dedicated volunteer at Positivo Latinos, an organization that empowers Latinos and Latinas living with HIV/AIDS across Ontario. Since joining Positivo Latinos, Alexis has become a key contributor to the organization’s mission of providing culturally relevant support and fostering a community where Latino PHAs (People Living with HIV/AIDS) can connect and thrive
Driven by a deep personal connection to HIV care, Alexis is passionate about breaking the stigma and isolation often experienced by Latino communities "Positivo Latinos is more than just support; it’s about building a community where people living with HIV are treated with dignity and respect," Alexis shares. Their work aligns with the organization’s commitment to cultural empowerment and person-centered care, ensuring that all members feel seen, heard, and valued
Alexis has contributed to several initiatives, including outreach programs and educational workshops, offering direct support to individuals navigating HIV care "Volunteering at Positivo Latinos has been an enriching experience," Alexis reflects. "I’m proud to be part of a team working towards a future where Latinos living with HIV are never alone." Through Alexis’ dedication, Positivo Latinos continues to create a stronger, more supportive community for Latinos living with HIV/AIDS in Ontario
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Position advertised Organization
Executive Director FIFE House
Office Coordinator (Contract) FIFE house
Career Development Counsellor Regent Park Community Health Centre
Personal support worker various locations Loft community services
