CAYR COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS was originally founded as the AIDS Committee of York Region in 1993 and formally incorporated as a registered charitable organization in 1996. OUR MISSION & VISION To create safe, confidential, and inclusive spaces and services in York Region where people can access dignified support and meaningfully engage in self-determined pathways to well-being. We envision an informed, healthy, stigma-free and compassionate community. WHO WE WORK WITH We offer specialized and combined programs for: - People living with HIV/AIDS (newly diagnosed to long-term survivors) - People affected by or at risk of HIV and Hep C - People who use drugs - People who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ - People supporting vulnerable and marginalized community members OUR VALUES Inclusion We cultivate an environment where individuals and communities can equitably and meaningfully achieve their full potential. Self-Determination We uphold human dignity and the rights of individuals and communities to make informed choices. Well-Being We nurture a holistic approach to well-being that includes physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspirations. Collaboration We build upon the collective strengths of individuals and communities. Our values are rooted in the principles of: - Greater and meaningful involvement and engagement of people with lived experience of HIV/AIDS, drug and substance use, as well as 2SLGBTQ+ identified community members. - Harm Reduction - Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression Note: “CAYR” is phonetically pronounced /keə(r)/ and is based on the word “CARE” as in “to care for” persons served by the agency.