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Positive Pals is a volunteer companion program which offers skill development, emotional support, companionship and assistance with the practical needs of daily living for individuals with HIV/AIDS. Positive Pal volunteers visit isolated or in-need individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers also help to empower those who are isolated to gain the resources and independence they need to live long and well. Through this program, isolation is sure to become a thing of the past. Most clients who are in the program graduate within 6-18 months with a new sense of independence and strength!

Services Positive Pals Provide

Clients and volunteer pals work together to find ways to help maintain the health and independence of the client. This partnership supports and empowers clients in meeting self-sufficiency goals. Volunteers may provide the following:

• Friendly visits to clients who are in the hospital, hospice or other long-term care
• Referrals to resources in the HIV community
• Assistance in meeting goals for personal growth
• Assistance with shopping and errands
• Support during medical appointments

Positive Pals Clients

Positive Pals clients are HIV-positive people who experience a lack of family and social involvement. Clients may be in any stage of HIV and may be living at home, a long-term care facility or hospice.

A client application and needs assessment with a Positive Pals staff member is required to determine eligibility. Please call the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS for assistance.

Positive Pals Volunteers

Volunteers for the Positive Pals program are caring individuals in the community who would like to make a difference in the life of someone in need. In addition, volunteers:

• Are at least 18 years of age
• Are willing to commit to six or more months of service, approximately four hours per week (flexible hours)
• Participate in pre-screening and follow-up interviews
• Are fingerprinted for the purposes of a criminal records check, subject to review
• Attend a free educational HIV class, offered at the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS (or equivalent)

Those interested in volunteering should submit an application and three satisfactory professional references.

Fill out a volunteer application online

For additional information, contact volunteer coordinator, Kristen Bakalis at (602) 307-5330, ext. 2220 or e-mail Kristen Bakalis.