Upgrade needed for local AIDS Support facility...

I recently visited a local registered nonprofit organization, AIDS Support Chatham-Kent, which provides a long list of critical services for our Community including educating those at high risk about ways to protect themselves and providing support for people living with HIV. I'm wowed by what they accomplish!!

But here's where the need that I observed stepped in...

When I entered the facility for the first time, I couldn't help noticing the long expanse of floor to ceiling windows that extend along the exterior wall of the main, open-concept, 'community' area. It's really lovely... but I've got to tell you – if you sit in this area on a sunny day, as I had, it quickly feels hot... uncomfortably hot.

I asked about the absence of window coverings and learned that the blinds installed several years ago had become extremely ragged and had to be taken down. Unfortunately, they were not replaced due to lack of funds.

Knowing how difficult it is for small nonprofit organizations to find funds for dealing with projects that are considered 'capital improvements', it's understandable how this can happen. But please allow me to qualify that the need for window coverings isn't about aesthetics. It's about much needed:

PRIVACY – Given the confidential nature of the services provided, the open, street level view of the client services area hinders the organization's ability to maintain their client's sense of privacy during group gatherings.

COMFORT – As I mentioned from my own experience after sitting inside for only a few minutes, the intensity of light pouring in on a sunny day makes it quite uncomfortable. Made worse when you consider that most who seek assistance at this facility are suffering from poor health.

FUNCTIONALITY – Among other issues created by the amount of sunlight entering this space, it's impossible to use the projector for presentations during daylight hours, limiting the organization's ability to share valuable educational services to those who wish to attend group seminars at this facility.

The blinds are not just window coverings - they denote Respect, Dignity and Caring, all of which are so important to individuals at high risk or living with this illness.

Here's how we can help...

I contacted the Associate Director of Development, Karyn O'Neil, at AIDS Support Chatham-Kent to express interest in establishing a grassroots initiative to raise funds specifically directed at the purchase of window coverings. Karyn gave me the go-ahead, had quotes prepared, and indicated that the target to shoot for to have blinds installed along the long expanse of windows is $3500.

For the sake of ease and convenience, I've set up this 'GO FUND ME' page – which is a safe and secure online means for receiving donations. Every contribution, no matter the level... even at $10 or $20... really adds up and swiftly moves us closer to reaching this community spirited goal, initiated to alleviate one of the hurdles for this important and awe-inspiring local organization! Just click the green "DONATE" button for quick, easy-breezy processing of your contribution.

Please join me in making this happen – let's get it done!
THANK YOU
~ Anita Markert
Proud supporter of ACW Chatham-Kent Outreach

If you have any questions about the AIDS support centre in Chatham, please contact, Karyn O'Neil, Director, AIDS Support Chatham-Kent at: [email redacted]

To learn more about the programs and services available in Chatham-Kent, please click this link to the AIDS Committee of Windsor website.