This non-profit continually evolves and adapts to serve the community

In this edition of the "Helpers" series, we look at the ever-changing efforts and services of the Aids Committee of North Bay & Area - ACNBA

As important as it is to focus on AIDS, the local group known as the Aids Committee of North Bay & Area - ACNBA - continues to evolve and add to its programming to serve the community.

Executive Director Stacey Mayhall says the change has been gradual but consistent.

"Originally, we were only HIV AIDS Service providers. In 2011, we started to receive funding for our Multidisciplinary Hep C Program," she says.

The next change came a few years later, as Mayhall states "in 2018, we received funding for two Harm Reduction Worker positions. This has added capacity to assist some of our most marginalized community members. Most recently we have received funding from the New Horizons program for two new positions."

Mayhall explains that the New Horizons initiatives focus on a couple of key areas.

"One is a Safer Spaces Program Coordinator, who will be educating service providers, business and community members and building safer workplaces free of discrimination. This is a capacity-building program that also focuses on improving the environment for 2SLGBTQ+ folks. The second position is our New Horizon’s 2SLGBTQ+Senior’s Community Development Coordinator. This position will offer us the opportunity to reduce social isolation and build community and services for people 55 and over and their families and support services," she adds.

Mayhall says that she and her staff enjoy their day to day work, but adds that the feedback they get can be as meaningful as any career accomplishment, saying "so many people take the time to tell us we are doing important work in the community. One of my favourite comments comes from clients who tell us that we have saved their lives. These comments come from people with lived experience."

She says that they couldn't do what they do without the help of some dedicated helpers, adding "we have a terrific and dedicated volunteer base, but we are always recruiting."

If you're interested in learning more and possibly getting involved, Mayhall encourages you to reach out , saying you can "contact our Office Administrator at 705 497-3560, or go to our website www.aidsnorthbay.com anytime."

This is one of a series of good news articles in the "Helpers" series, covering people or groups who make things better in our community. To suggest a person, volunteer, group or an organization contact Mike Anthony at [email protected]