Clare Macdonald

Living Positive Resource Centre

Since our inception this time we have offered support, awareness, education and prevention programs for HIV/AIDS throughout the community, and more recently have begun education and support programs to meet the needs of those living with hepatitis C. As the front-line agency for HIV/AIDS/Hepatitis C, we are often the first point of contact for clients. Our role is to provide information and referrals, hospital visits, counselling, social service advocacy, self-care workshops, financial counselling, health maintenance, nutrition information, and information on accessing health services. Living Positive Resource Centre is now recognized as the definitive authority on HIV/AIDS in our region, which extends from Armstrong to the U.S. border. Living Positive has been a successful advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS, intervening when their rights have been ignored or abused, fostering compassion and understanding of the disease and its impact on the individual, the family and the community. Our Support Services continue to provide guidance for people trying to negotiate the maze of government red tape, to advocate for appropriate services and supports and, equally important, sometimes to just listen. Support Services are provided in Kelowna, Penticton and communities of the Similkameen Valley. The demand for Education Services continues to grow. Presentations are requested by diverse groups and institutions throughout the Valley. We address OUC Nursing and Social Work classes, Hospice Volunteers, Crossroads Treatment Centre, Parent Participation Preschools, Public & Independent Schools, First Nations Communities, Churches, Care Homes, Community Service Clubs and Health Care Professionals. Our Education Services and Speakers' Bureau delivers presentations throughout the Okanagan/Similkameen from Armstrong to the U.S. border to Princeton.