The Canadian Harm Reduction Network

Hello All,

I am writing at this time to ask if anyone would be able to provide me with advice on becoming a harm reduction worker. I believe I am taking the necessary steps, however also understand I don't have all the answers and would appreciate any advice or direction you could provide. I have spent much time reviewing job posting boards and researching the few community outreach centres in the city (Toronto) and have noted that most are looking for either social work or health science degrees holders. This has prompted me to make the decision to return to school in order to change my sociology degree to a social work degree. I am currently in the process of applying for the second degree entry program for social work offered at York University, however as a current student who works full-time and goes to school part-time, I am seriously being affected by the long strike taking place and may miss the deadline for entry (a whole other story). With my head and heart committed to harm reduction work, I was wondering if anyone could offer any other suggestions regarding the steps I can take in the interim.

I currently work in social services and volunteer at CAMH and have been personally affected by addictions and drug use. Identifying as a former drug user with over 6 years clean and I am also the daughter of an alcoholic father who left the family home as a result of his addiction. Having understood the truths and pains of drug use and subsequent addiction from many sides, I am truly committed to this field of work and have been preparing myself for the mental, physical and emotional stress that is often a result of the work involved. I have been learning about the burn out effect, learning about effective communication, am always researching about new concepts and theories in order to better prepare myself for the future. Many of the clients I work with in my job, (which although is in social services does not address the issues of external resources, personal development, drug use, etc) continue to encourage me everyday by expressing that they hope one day I will become a worker in this field. As thankful as I am for their well wishes, I cannot use them as references and am beginning to feel very frustrated. I am looking desperately to apply my skills and experience and dedicate myself to this much needed field of work working as a guide rather than a saviour, but also realize that there are many funding & systemic issues that make this kind of work extremely difficult.

Once again, if anyone can provide me with any advice or suggestions to finding work (entry level or not) or volunteer opportunities in Toronto or alternative programs that are highly suggested for harm reduction workers that would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for taking the time to review this.

Hello Michelle:

Looks like we both have the same questions. I am currently taking my courses in Addictions care worker Diplomia at McMaster via distance. It may be a great addition to your current studies. Also, I am planning to apply at CACCF ... they offer \\\" a contingent designation as a stepping stone to the International Certified Alcohol And Drug Counsellor (ICADC)

CACCF recognizes that many addiction practitioners find the process for the ICADC somewhat difficult early in their career. Simultaneously, there is a need to ensure that those who want to achieve a professional status to have the skills and the knowledge to effectively practice in the best interests of our clients. To meet both these needs, CACCF has developed a designation that has less requirements of the recognized international certification with the intent that those practitioners will continue onto the full certification within a three year period. \\\"

Hope this gives you some ideas. I have tried to get my social work via York and was told that I needed to start with SOC. (that was years ago).

I also welcome others in the profession with any other ideas.

TJ

hey Michelle
In Australia we use the term 'Harm Minimisation' (HM) as it incorporates a three tiered process : Supply reduction, demand reduction and harm reduction (HR). The nuts and bolts of HR are Needle exchange (NSP), Methadone maitenance, etc. I'm sure you know the starategies. While the government esp Federal may not embrace the philosophy they certainly embrace the evidence based legal/ socioeconomic/health results. There are plenty of right wingers who cannot see the forest from the trees (are you supplying drugs with thesyringes?)
In Australia mid-eighties there was a bi-partisan approach to HIV epidemic that included NSP. Today we have less than 1% HIV in the Injecting drug use population. Hep C unfortunately was not understood as well and is epidemic here. Another battle.
Come on down and work here in Sydney (I am ex Vancouver)