Who We Are
SafeLink Alberta: Reducing Risks and Promoting Health for Underserved Communities in Southern Alberta
SafeLink Alberta is a non-profit organization that has been serving and advocating for priority populations in Calgary and southern Alberta since 1983. Our mission is to reduce the harms associated with sexual activity and substance use through education, non-judgmental services and programming.
We believe that everyone deserves access to healthcare services, regardless of their background or lifestyle. That's why we prioritize underserved communities and those who are most at risk for HIV, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
Our services include HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis C testing, emotional support, support groups, and referrals to other healthcare providers. We also offer supplies and education on safer sex practices, drug use, and overdose prevention.
Our team is made up of passionate and dedicated individuals who are committed to making a positive impact in our community. We work closely with other organizations and community partners to ensure that our services are accessible and effective.
At SafeLink Alberta, we believe that everyone deserves to live a healthy and fulfilling life, and we are here to support and empower our clients every step of the way.
Mission
Our mission at SafeLink Alberta is to reduce the harms associated with sexual activity and substance use by offering low-barrier, non-judgmental, and informed programs and services. We believe that everyone deserves access to healthcare services and support, regardless of their background or lifestyle.
Vision
Our vision at SafeLink Alberta is to create inclusive, empowered, and healthier communities. We strive to promote health equity and reduce health disparities among marginalized populations. Through our work at SafeLink Alberta, we hope to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being, and to foster a community that values diversity, respect, and compassion.
Our Values
Innovation
Innovation is like a spark that turns regular ideas into remarkable solutions. It's the process of blending creativity, curiosity, and a touch of audacity to create something extraordinary. It's about turning everyday concepts into groundbreaking innovations that elevate how we work and help make SafeLink Alberta a leader in our field.Kindness:
Kindness is what helps turn ordinary moments into human connections. It's the art of mixing compassion, empathy, and generosity to create something truly remarkable; taking everyday interactions and turning them into acts of care that elevate how we treat one another and how we make SafeLink Alberta a non-judgemental and empowering community to be a part of.Collaboration:
Collaboration is when we come together to create harmonious success. It's the art of blending resources, expertise, and cooperative efforts to achieve shared goals. When done intentionally, collaboration leads to improved services and unique solutions for the communities we serve.Authenticity:
Authenticity guides us to honest and heartfelt connections. It's the practice of being genuine in our interactions and demonstrating accountability through transparency. By embracing sincerity, we cultivate trust and build meaningful connections, creating safer environments for engagement and support at SafeLink Alberta.Justice:
Justice is fairness and dignity for all, regardless of circumstance. It is the commitment to dismantling systems of oppression and promoting a society where everyone enjoys equal opportunities and fair treatment. At SafeLink Alberta, we stand as advocates for and drivers of this justice, striving to create inclusive, empowered, and healthier communities.
Our Agency Attributes
Leading the Way
Human Connection
Through an Unbiased Lens
Authentic Education
Guided by Firsthand Knowledge
SafeLink Alberta's Commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility
SafeLink Alberta is deeply committed to fostering Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) both within our organization and within the communities we serve. For us, inclusion means creating a culture where everyone is welcomed, respected, and valued. Diversity is the equitable representation of voices, experiences, and communities, ensuring that all perspectives are valued and heard. Equity ensures fairness and justice, striving for everyone to be supported in accessing the resources and opportunities they need. Accessibility guarantees that our services, programs, and workplace are available to all, regardless of circumstances or ability.
Our dedication to IDEA is central to our vision of creating inclusive, empowered, and healthier communities. We understand that this work is ongoing and that we will continue to make mistakes. SafeLink Alberta is invested in learning and in adapting our approach based on these learnings, and we acknowledge that this requires consistent effort, dedication, and accountability. Therefore, we are committed to embedding IDEA principles, goals, and actions into our strategic and operational plans and to providing regular updates to the community on our progress, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Our Staff
Leadership Team
Katie Ayres, Executive Director
Megan Williamson, Director, Programs
Ngozi Adefesobi, CPA, CMA, Director Finance
Chinwe Agu, CPHR, SHRM-CP, RPR, PCP, Director, Human Resources & Operations
Karyn Jackson, Manager, Impact and Evaluations
Marie Tounissoux, Manager, Medicine Hat Support Services
Monika Kiegelmann, Manager, Calgary Support Services
Natasha Steacy, Manager, Education
Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi, Manager, Community Relations
Our Board
Annual Reports:
