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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Barrie, ON

I need you all to be honest with me. Do you see me working in an HIV support centre?

March 27
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly encouraged someone living with HIV who is considering working at an HIV support center, with many emphasizing that... Read more

Members overwhelmingly encouraged someone living with HIV who is considering working at an HIV support center, with many emphasizing that lived experience provides unique insight and credibility that newly diagnosed individuals especially need. Several members shared practical next steps, including completing standardized training through organizations like the OHTN, volunteering at the Gilbert Centre in Barrie to build connections and experience, and pursuing peer support certifications such as the Positive Leadership Development Institute. A recurring theme was the power of giving back to the community and transforming personal hardship into meaningful work, with one member sharing how starting a new career in HIV support at 60 brought unexpected fulfillment and purpose.

A myHIVteam Member

That's right. It doesn't hurt to ask the executive director Dale on Monday, if he is there.

March 27
A myHIVteam Member

I'm actually thinking of volunteering at the Gilbert Centre to start off. Work my way up from the bottom of the mountain and climb the mountain to success until I reach the top.

March 27
A myHIVteam Member

I hope so, that Dale will allow me to be an 2SLGBTQ+ youth worker who were diagnosed at a young age or homeless and did narcotics and were kicked out of their place.

March 30 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

My answer to you is YES!!!! I started in such a role last Summer and I LOVE it!!! Starting a new "career" (I only work part-time) at 60 years old isn't something I ever thought I would do but I've found it's a great way to finally make one of the worst parts of my life into something good.

March 30
A myHIVteam Member

I can see it... And you'd be damn good at it too, as it takes someone who has been there, done that, bought the t-shirt to truly understand the feelings and needs of someone who has been diagnosed, especially for people who were just diagnosed. From my experience, people who truly understand what we go through after diagnosis is also the most helpful, as the one thing I kept lashing out at people with after I was diagnosed is "You don't understand. You just can't!" When dealing with someone who is also HIV+, this just wasn't the case because they literally DO understand what a person goes through after diagnosis, and can have the biggest impact on a newly diagnosed person more than anyone else for that simple reason.

March 27

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