Testimonials

The training contributed to changing our agencies attitude regarding harm reduction. In 2009 our Board of Directors approved a new Harm Reduction policy. Great impact overall on staff and the clients! Bravo!

It was obvious that the presenter was passionate about his work and genuinely cared for the clientele. He knew his material and the comments and anecdotes were extremely helpful in understanding the concepts being presented. Most of all, he was warm and created a relaxed and enjoyable environment in which to learn. (he was able to hold my attention despite the fact that I was leaving on a European vacation the next day ;)

“Great information, style etc. I was very at ease in this training and found the presenter knowledgeable, frank and engaging. I appreciated the positive approach to Harm Reduction, the encouragement to use it in our work and recognizing the importance of relationship building with clients”

This presentation was great with wonderful interaction with participants. The presenter makes one feel comfortable and part of his presentation”

“The presenter encouraged questions and answered them clearly. His communication style kept me focused and interested, and he was very warm, empathetic and extremely knowledgable.Handled difficult topics with great sensitivity”

Information was clear, interesting and the speaker made the session very enjoyable. I was able to bring this info back to my colleagues (put together a little fact sheet for them), and it has allowed us to make some changes in our workplace that benefit both staff and client!

I appreciated how thorough and current the information in the training was. I was very pleasantly surprised to learn so many new things (even in the substance 101 segment). Our general perception of the status of HIV/AIDS in Canada (based on the current media coverage) is that this disease has been nearly eradicated. It was an eye opener to learn how prevalent HIV/AIDS and Hep C are in certain segments of society. Bravo to Charles and Nick for informing those of us in the field of this tragic plight; and for giving us tools and hope to help to combat it!

The update on methods of transmission improved my knowledge. The discussions that emerged about stigma related to HIV and substance use highlighted the common experience of service users and service providers. I really appreciated the fact that our agency came together around “one topic” – but was able to relate it to various and diverse aspects of our work.

The facilitator made the environment relaxed and comfortable to talk about issues that are not always easy to talk about. They created an atmosphere that encouraged questions and conversation and that challenged us in a positive way to look at our own personal biases and the impact they could have on our ability to work effectively and in a support manner with our clients. The information presented was clear and concise. I found the information on Hep C and HIV as it relates to pregnant women especially helpful as I have many women ask me for information and before the training I rarely was able to provide good information to them.

The two-day training offered by the Ontario HIV and Substance Use Training Program is by far one of the best I have attended in recent years. It is comprehensive and engaging, providing participants with relevant, current, and meaningful information related to the issues of HIV and substance use. This interactive training was presented by knowledgeable and dynamic facilitators, and in my opinion, is essential for anyone working within the social services field.