AIDS Vancouver provides direct support to people living with, and affected by, HIV throughout the Lower Mainland. As one of the first HIV organizations in the country, AIDS Vancouver plays a special role and is clearly more than just a community health care organization.

Our Mission

AIDS Vancouver exists to alleviate individual and collective vulnerability to HIV and AIDS through support, public education and community based research.

Our Story

AIDS Vancouver opened its doors in 1983 as one of the first AIDS service organization in Canada in response to the growing need for community health organizations to support individuals vulnerable to the epidemic. The first 30 years of our work, and the broader HIV response, was documented as part of our 30th anniversary in 2013. The 30 30 Campaign, a comprehensive timeline of the history of HIV in the Vancouver area, told by the people who were there. This project resulted in 59 interviews with medical health officers, community organizers, nurses, doctors, and the loved ones of those who were lost.

One video story was released each day in July 2013, culminating in the release of the final video at a fundraising gala and celebration on the day of AIDS Vancouver's 30th anniversary. The full playlist is available on YouTube.

Our Strategic Intent

Prevent. Act. Support

Our Core Values

We believe:

  • People should be treated with dignity and respect at every stage of their life.

  • People living with HIV/AIDS have the right to determine the direction of their own lives.

  • In the respect of diversity, privacy and confidentiality.

  • In fostering the development of relationships that mutually benefit AIDS Vancouver and its partners.

  • That the participation of individuals infected with HIV and individuals and communities affected by HIV and AIDS are critical to all aspects of a humane and ethical response to the epidemic.