Shining Mountain LSC (SMLSC), its executive members and board of directors, are pleased to announce that a partnership agreement will be signed with the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) on Feb. 1 in Red Deer.

This partnership agreement is designed to provide both organizations an opportunity to work together in improving service delivery and programming to persons affected by the HIV virus. The organizations agree that it is imperative that improvements are made in order to change the current conditions that have affected many First Nations, Métis and Inuit afflicted with HIV throughout this country.

The SMLSC recognizes the complexity of issues confronting Aboriginal communities and the long, difficult history of attempting to manage and address the issue of HIV programs and services. For over 50 years, Aboriginal Friendship Centres across Alberta have responded to this issue with programming and cultural supports as a means to address the HIV affected First Nations, Métis and Inuit who are living within Alberta’s urban centres.

In order to better the lives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Alberta that are affected by the HIV virus, the SMLSC has provided programming that supports increased knowledge and awareness of the issue of HIV. SMLSC is also implementing research in the Aboriginal community and anticipated results will assist SMLSC and ANFCA in developing new programs and services that will lead to better outcomes for HIV affected individuals.

SMLSC supports ANFCA and this agreement will see our respective organizations working in good faith and cooperating to foster better conditions for First Nations, Métis and Inuit affected by the virus.

SMLSC and ANFCA have agreed to meet on Feb. 1 to sign a historical agreement of partnership and cooperation. Our respective organizations will provide support to each other in the on-going fight with the HIV virus as we continue to work with communities across Alberta to provide a better life and opportunity for Aboriginal peoples affected with the HIV virus.

Raye St. Denys

Executive Director

Shining Mountains LSC

Nelson Mayer

Executive Director

Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association