AVI’s mission is to promote health, dignity, and well-being for all people affected by HIV, HCV, and substance use.
Victoria, British Columbia
AVI Health & Community Services (AVI) has offices in the communities of Greater Victoria, Nanaimo, the Comox Valley, and Campbell River. Our catchment area includes all of the Gulf Islands. Our charitable non-profit organization provides services for people living with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), AIDS (autoimmune deficiency syndrome), HCV (hepatitis C virus), people who use drugs, trans folks, gay men, bisexual men, queer men and men who have sex with men are available across Vancouver Island. AVI provides education and prevention information to schools, the broader community and populations at increased risk of contracting HIV and/or hepatitis C. Evidence demonstrates that comprehensive prevention programs can help to effectively contain HIV, hepatitis C, and other communicable diseases. Though our Positive Wellness Program, AVI Health & Community Services provides integrated services to individuals living with HIV and/or hepatitis C, including advocacy and support with income assistance, health care services, employment, housing, disability status applications and legal matters; short-term counseling focused on immediate needs and outcomes; non-judgmental education and support for treatment, side effects, nutrition and symptoms. AVI's effectiveness is derived from our role in the community and our connections with the populations most infected by, and at risk of, contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, and other communicable diseases. Throughout our large volunteer base and the community partnerships we have forged, we effectively engage with and support difficult-to-reach populations. AVI Health & Community Services is a vital component of the total effort against HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C and other communicable diseases.
On-site
The Community Crisis Responder provides acute mobile crisis support, de-escalation, and mental health assessments for individuals experiencing crises. They work collaboratively to develop safety plans and follow-up care while maintaining situational awareness in unpredictable environments.
On-site
The Experiential Community Crisis Responder provides acute mobile crisis support, de-escalation, and safety planning for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. They work collaboratively within a team to provide rapid, trauma-informed care while maintaining situational awareness in unpredictable environments.
On-site
The Systems, Screening and Dispatch Navigator manages the central crisis line, assesses caller acuity, and dispatches mobile teams to provide mental health and substance use support. They are responsible for developing safety plans, maintaining client records, and coordinating with community resources to ensure effective crisis intervention.