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Our ​Mission

We create an inclusive environment for a collaborative approach to education, support and outreach.  We build on the strengths and abilities of people living with HIV, AIDS and related co-infections, those at risk and their support networks in Durham Region.

Our Values

At ACDR we strive to reduce the stigma around HIV and AIDS by living according to these values:
 
The Greater Involvement and Meaningful Engagement of People living with HIV and AIDS (GIPA/MEPA): the client is at the center of all we do; we are client led, and peer and volunteer driven;
 
Social Justice: we work through a lens of cultural safety, inclusivity, activism, diversity, and an Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression (ARAO) framework;
 
Respect: we meet people ‘where they are at in their lives’ - honouring their individuality, self-identity and choices.  We work to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of those we serve;
 
Compassion: we have empathy for those we serve and strive to understand and address their needs;
 
Sex positivity: We support individual choice around sex practices, sexual and reproductive health, and believe that human sexuality is an integral part of a healthy life;
 
Accountability: we are mindful of our responsibility to serve the needs of all of our stakeholders; 
 
Holistic approach: We strive to support individuals with an approach that views health as inclusive of mind, body, spirit, and the environment. We do our work through an understanding of the social determinants of health and risk reduction strategies;
 
Innovation: We bring unique perspectives when developing our intervention tools and practices.  We demonstrate leadership in our work; 
 
Excellence: We believe in setting the highest possible standards for our work and taking an evidence-informed approach;
 
Self-Care: We acknowledge the challenges in our work, and prioritize taking care of ourselves and each other.