Retiree learns to fill up time by helping in Harm Reduction
Since retirement I’d found I had too much idle time on my hands.
Through a chance meeting with a former co-worker I learned of the many volunteer opportunities available at the AIDS Committee of Windsor (ACW), a non-profit agency that provides support, education and outreach services for people living with, affected by, or at risk of, HIV/AIDS, through a number of different programs.
Intrigued, and having always wanted to give back to my community, I began volunteering one day a week at reception then decided (since fundraising is vital to a nonprofit’s ongoing success) to join its Fund Development Committee.
I now volunteer four days a week in ACW’s Harm Reduction department. We give those who practise high-risk behaviours, such as drug use, the opportunity to lead safer, healthier lives by limiting the spread of infections like hepatitis and HIV. Sterile needles, clean paraphernalia, sharps containers, as well as, safe disposal services are offered.
Last year almost 600,000 sterile needles were distributed and roughly 500,000 were brought back for safe disposal. This program’s intent is designed to keep the entire community safe.
I have learned, that although the field of harm reduction has its critics, the reality is that the prevention of communicable diseases, such as Hep C and HIV, is less costly and more prudent, than the price of long-term treatment and its potential impact on the health care system.
Had it not been for this opportunity, I wouldn’t have known otherwise. I’m grateful for the experience.