Welcome to the Acceptance and Commitment to Empowerment (ACE) Intervention program, designed to reduce HIV stigma and promote community resilience through capacity-building activities. HIV stigma remains a critical issue, affecting access to care for people living with or vulnerable to HIV. We invite community members, agency staff, and community leaders impacted by HIV/AIDS to participate in various phases of our project research and capacity-building efforts. Our program leverages evidence-based training to combat stigma at both individual and collective levels. ACE builds on successful past initiatives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to fostering empowerment and resilience within our communities. Join us in this transformative journey to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. 

Below are the different phases of our project and how you can get involved:

PHASE 1 Recruitment (Completed in early 2024)

Contextual Assessment and Application: We engaged service providers, community leaders and members of affected communities in surveys and focus groups to explore their experiences and/or perspectives on HIV stigma, existing community strategies or gaps in reducing HIV stigma, and access to relevant support. Learn more..

PHASE 2 Recruitment  (Currently underway)

Train-and-Trainer and Community Capacity Building: We engage and build capacity among service providers and community leaders using a “train-the-trainer” capacity-building approach. ACE graduates from Phase 2 will be mentored to become ACE facilitators and facilitate intervention groups of community members of the affected communities in Phase 3. Participation in this phase is for invited service providers and community leaders affiliated with our collaborating agencies only. Other interested community members will be welcome to join our training activities when Phase 3 rolls out in early 2025. Learn more..

PHASE 3 Recruitment (Upcoming in early 2025)

Community Champions – ACE Training with Community Members: We will recruit approximately 280-300 community participants living with, affected by, or vulnerable to HIV from six local sites across Canada to take part in the ACE online training. This training aims to reduce stigma and promote collective resilience. Stay tuned for registration details coming soon.