PARN was chosen by 100 Women Peterborough’s majority vote to receive the funds. The philanthropic group has supported local charities for five years, and donated over $164,000 to local community causes since its inception in 2018.
Peterborough AIDS Resource Network provides support and health promotion for people who are living with, affected by, or at-risk for HIV in the four counties of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton. They provide education and equipment for people at risk for HIV, hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
PARN has been serving the community with both outreach and programming for LGBTQ+ youth and women who are living with, affected by or at-risk for HIV and continue to hold community capacity building projects, workshops and awareness to the broader community. They provide a variety of services including counselling, workshops and information on progression and treatment of the condition for those affected and their families. The organization also provides referrals to service providers, basic necessities to those in need and assistance with other health issues.
“All donations received will be going to women actively involved with our organization by compensating their time and contribution toward continuously improving the services they want to receive,” said Dane Record, executive director of PARN.
In PARN’s presentation to the members, Record stated the importance of working with volunteers in the community to fulfill their mission as an organization.
“The Women’s Advisory and Women In Action committees are two of the most passionate, hardworking committees that show up frequently to lead our community work and continue our mission to prevent new HIV transmissions and promote HIV/AIDS awareness in Peterborough City and County,” said Record.
“Our philosophy at 100 Women Peterborough is to come together as a group to make a big impact. Through our giving group we not only empower women to engage in philanthropy in a meaningful way that is budget friendly, but we also provide a quick, easy and transparent way for the charities to access donors and funding,” says Rose Terry, one of the founding members of 100 Women Peterborough. “We are providing a space for the collective voice to be heard.”
