What We Believe

peer syringe recovery team

Regional HIV/AIDS Connection works from an anti-oppression, anti-racism framework and has adopted several positions statements and definitions that help guide our work with respect to issues such as the criminalization of HIV for non-disclosure, the Vienna Declaration on the criminalization of illicit drug users, the medical use of marijuana, health promotion, sex positivity, and diversity. We are currently working on creating position statements on sexism and trans inclusion.

Our work is also guided by the following principles developed in the fall of 2009 as the agency moved toward its 25-year service delivery milestone. These principles are reflective of and honour the beliefs of those who came before us. We uphold these beliefs as we address HIV/AIDS and related issues locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally.

If you are interested in joining the fight against HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C and working to help uphold these principles, visit our Get Involved page.

Dignity

  • In appreciating the diversity of people we engage with, and in building trust-filled relationships centered on respecting the dignity of each individual served.

Inclusion

  • In overcoming the stigma and discrimination of HIV/AIDS through promoting understanding and inclusion across our communities, and ensuring that we are non-judgmental, fair, compassionate, and empowering in all our work.

Responsiveness

  • In being responsive and culturally sensitive to the evolving needs of the people in the communities served, providing accurate, timely and needed supports and services that make a difference.

Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GIPA)

  • In building capacities to facilitate greater and more meaningful involvement of people living with HIV in all levels of the organization.
  • Regional HIV/AIDS Connection is committed to adhering to the principles of The Ontario Accord because the greater involvement and meaningful engagment of people living with HIV/AIDS (GIPA/MIPA) must be at the center of our work if we are to effectively deliver on our mission of addressing the challenges associated with HIV/AIDS.

Harm Reduction

  • In the importance of incorporating the principles of harm reduction in all the work of RHAC.

Collaboration

  • In actively pursuing partnerships and collaborative initiatives that enhance both access to resources and the quality of services and supports available to individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.

Honouring our History

  • In honouring our roots and history in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) communities as important contributors to our evolving purpose, actions and future.

Valuing Staff and Volunteers

  • In valuing the outstanding contributions and commitments of our staff and volunteers.

Enriching the Organizational Culture

  • In continually working to develop a supportive and valued organizational culture that actively encourages innovation, personal development, team work and participation in an environment of continuous learning.

Accountability

  • In being accountable to all our stakeholders for the resources provided and the decisions made, ensuring integrity in all that we do.