positive focus Spring 2012
www.stapinc.org
Serving Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga & Tompkins Counties
from the director
I HAVE BEEN REMINDED ANEW RECENTLY OF WHY I LOVE WORKING AT STAP
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ADMINISTRATION
Paul Rushanski President Jamie Cornell Vice President Michael Grasso Treasurer Ralph Klotzbaugh Secretary Jerry Halbert Member-at-Large
John Barry Executive Director Michelle McElroy Director of Programs Mary Kaminsky Director of Development Julie Kerr Director of Finance Joseph Caminiti Director of Information Systems Jackie Centerwall Director of Operations Candace Phelan Volunteer Coordinator Cynthia Rotella Special Events Coordinator Anne Baron Fiscal Assistant Ginny Miller Program Assistant Glenda Oliver Receptionist Katrina Roehrig Human Resources Administrator Jeffrey Pryor Prison Reentry Coordinator Timothy Giordani Intensive Case Manger Reentry
Joyce Allen Larry Bailey Grant Best Tina Ruocco Dolan Anthony Fiala, Jr. Angelo Fiori Kristen Harding Helen Higgenbotham Joshua Ludzki Nancy McGowan Pamela Mischen Jason Pickart
and why I believe it has spoiled me for any other workplace. We are allowed to do what is needed with minimal interference. STAP was contacted several months ago by the Cortland County Health Department (CCHD). They had discovered a group of Hepatitis C+ individuals and as they began tracing contacts and doing more testing more infections emerged. The majority of these infections were due to injection drug use and so the CCHD reached out to us to begin a conversation in their community about providing syringe exchange services in Cortland as STAP already does in Ithaca and Johnson City. As a component of this process we decided to survey injection drug users in Cortland and find out
what they needed and what they thought would work best to
will be asking their syringe exchange program participants to
prevent further infections.
complete the survey. I expect that in the future the survey may be disseminated more widely and that the data gathered
Several conference calls ensued with the CCHD, the NYS AIDS
will impact policy on syringe exchange programs and hopefully
Institute and STAP, planning how best to gather this information
funding for Hepatitis C prevention and care.
and have the most impact in our interactions with survey participants. As the survey was developed, a staff member
Allow me to be clear about this, STAP could not have
from the federal Center for Disease Control (CDC) joined us
accomplished this alone… nor would we want to try. Every
to help with the survey development process. The survey, it
organization mentioned above came freely to the table, left
should come as no surprise, is thorough—52 questions thorough.
their organizational ego at the door and gave what they could
We are also offering HIV and Hepatitis C testing to survey
without strings or expectations and this is why it worked. We
participants with the results linked anonymously to their survey
are grateful to all of them.
data, vouchers for syringes at local pharmacies, information on preventing Hepatitis C infections and enrollment in our existing
The week that we piloted the survey we had enough time slots
syringe exchange programs. With the help of staff from the NYS
to see 16 people, we saw 17. Eight people were tested and three
Health Department AIDS Institute and the CDC, the survey data
were Hepatitis C+. These people were immediately set up with
that we collect will be published as research and presented
a doctor’s appointment for follow up care. Clearly, the injection
at nationwide conferences. The collaboration of the federal,
drug using community in Cortland exists and wishes their voice
state, county and private nonprofit organizations to respond to
to be part of the discussion. We at STAP are privileged and
this public health crisis is a model that may become a best
honored to be entrusted with this important task and to receive
practice as we are collectively pushed to work together to
the support of so many fine organizations in doing it. That, in
maximize the return on limited resources.
the final analysis, is why I love it here. I am allowed to do good meaningful work.
Now that the survey has been designed and piloted, the AIDS
SOUTHERN TIER AIDS PROGRAM 122 Baldwin Street Johnson City, New York 13790 Hotline: (800) 333-0892 Phone: (607) 798-1706
CLIENT SERVICES Stacy Nickerson Client Services | Medical Advocacy Coordinator Jean Wilson Assistant Director of Client Services Andrea Pinney Housing Coordinator Michael Leahey Housing Specialist Jennifer McKenzie Housing Specialist Autumn Cook Medical Advocate Kristina Hagen Client Services Data Specialist Gry Bente-Johansen Case Manager Chemung Elke Meyer Case Manager Chemung Terri Shields Case Manager Broome Lisa Moore Case Manager Broome Elizabeth McDonald Case Manager Broome Cassandra Aikman Case Manager Tompkins Beth Pittman Case Manager Tech
PREVENTION SERVICES Cathy Sostre Assistant Director of Prevention Services Joe Barnett Assistant Director of Prevention Services Amy Henry LGBT Program Coordinator Alisa Reynolds Substance Use Outreach Coordinator Kernalia Andrews Women’s Outreach Coordinator Claudia Miller Women’s Services Educator Simone Cornelius Women’s Services Data Assistant Jeff Dunlap LGBT Youth Educator Lillian Fan Harm Reduction Coordinator Thomas Womelsdorf Harm Reduction Educator Jesse Natishak Syringe Exchange Technician Hanna Weiss Syringe Exchange Technician Bryan Cook Criminal Justice Prevention Specialist Stephen Gleason Mpowerment Specialist Noah Cooper Mpowerment Specialist Eric Kovatchitch Testing & Referral Specialist
Institute has reached out to Catholic Charities of Albany who 2
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recent events
2012 AIDS WALK RUN There was something for everyone at this year’s 15th annual
An event of this magnitude could not be possible without the
AIDS Walk Run. Whether you were young or old, an avid runner
help and generosity of many, many people and speaks to the
or mild enthusiast, highly competitive or just staying the course,
compassionate spirit of our community. A huge thank you goes
we had you covered, literally. This year’s event was held in the
out to our 18 local businesses, whose generous sponsorship
Greater Binghamton Sports Complex Dome on Airport Road. Not
allowed us to add the “twist” and new location this year. Thank
only did we have a new location, but there was also a new twist
you also to the ever faithful and talented Phil Messina and his
in the variety of events offered. In addition
balloon creations; to our DJ and announcer, Russell Swanger, for
to the 5K Walk and the 5K Run was
keeping things moving; to Trent Patterson
the infamous “Patterson’s Punisher”
and Brian Kittle, who designed the obstacle
obstacle course. Participants were
course; and of course to all the donors,
also given the choice to participate
participants and volunteers.
sponsors
WITH A TWIST!
WHAT A SUCCESS!
Excellus BCBS
AIDS Walk Run 2012 raised over
$60,000
Every year the AIDS Walk/Run
TOP THREE INDIVIDUALS
PAUL RUSHANSKI
proves to be a shining example Trent
Patterson’s
obstacle
course
of community at its best:
brought a new level of excitement and
people
emotion into the day’s events. The
to make a difference, by
way Patterson and his team guided, cheered, and encouraged each participant
to
dig
deep
coming
together
ensuring that we are able to continue our efforts of HIV+ individuals and state of
in order to reach their
the art prevention education,
personal
in the hopes of a brighter
victories
is
similar to the way STAP has helped so many people over the years overcome
JOSHUA LUDZKI
DEDE KUPPS
providing supportive services to
through each obstacle
education, compassion, and most
WBNG TV 12
$3,631 $2,838
Training for Life Systems GOLD SPONSORS Outback Steakhouse Starbucks Remlik’s Frito Lay Broome Tioga BOCES Wendy’s
J&K Plumbing and Heating Co., Inc. M&T Bank
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
$21,157 $2,838
BRONZE SPONSORS
DIVA’S
$1,812
Belknap Lumber, Inc.
future for all.
BEARS OF BINGHAMTON | positive focus
$8,600
TOP THREE TEAMS
importantly, hope.
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PLATINUM SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
obstacles in their lives by offering supportive services and resources,
UHS
Greater Binghamton Sports Complex
in one, two or all three events, if they were up for the challenge.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Price Chopper The Pharmacy
Lourdes Hospital Lowe’s Target www.stapinc.org
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upcoming events
journeys
it’s ofFIcal! the new M4
The time is approaching again for STAP’s annual client retreat,
It’s official! The Cube has successfully transitioned to M4. The
Journeys. This three-day, two-night event is held every year
process took three months to complete, from renaming the
in mid-June at a private setting in Broome County. Journeys is
center to applying the last coat of paint. The new décor is
designed to provide the agency’s clients with a rare opportunity
very modern and creates a relaxing atmosphere. The staff and
to get away, explore themselves, and make connections to the
peers at M4 are eager to offer services to young gay, bisexual,
world around them. Clients use this time to meet new friends, learn stress management skills, explore their spirituality, and
transgender and other men who have sex with men ages 18-30
promote their own personal growth and wellness. Each year
out of their newly renovated center.
approximately 50 clients participate in a variety of activities that include: massage, crafts, hiking, haircuts, campfires,
To celebrate M4’s grand opening they will be hosting a variety
support groups, jewelry making, and quiet time to just reflect
of events during the month of June. On Friday June 1st, during
and recuperate. New clients attend this unique experience each
Binghamton’s First Friday Art walk from 6pm-10pm M4 will be
year, and returning clients are involved in the planning process
open to the public. Peers and Staff will be offering tours of the
so as to ensure a client-centered approach and greater program
center and refreshments to guests.
satisfaction. Transportation is provided to the site, to allow clients from all over the STAP service region to participate.
As part of Binghamton’s Pride Month, M4 will be hosting our 1st
Journeys is made possible each year by the dedication of our local communities, volunteers, staff members, and professionals
Annual Mr. Pride Competition. Voting will take place via M4’s
who donate their time and resources to make this event a
Facebook page and five finalists will be chosen and displayed
success.
Re-Gifting Campaign During the retreat, we like to have fun giveaways, because who doesn’t like winning a raffle or door prize? We seek new or gently used items that can be made into gift baskets or even given away as a grand prize—a Re-Gifting Campaign. Did you receive a present that is too good to throw away, but is taking up space in your home because you’ll never use it? Extra event tickets or gift cards? Consider donating them to the retreat and all items will be given directly to STAP clients. Other suggested re-gifts include, small appliances and electronics, home décor, non-perishable food, toys, pet supplies, games, camping, personal hygiene, and anything else that can be
UI LG ER A
IN E D EL
S
D FO R
N ATIO N O
S
s) item rge N a E l me, o G is ti e (n l h t b a at at rt ens ffice e po n o i b l t y n or M us mai e an ing hav AP’s loth e T u c S o , y g t leas ff a ddin . If p, p o e Y u b N d at k e , ic No ator City le p ropp n b i d n i d s o r s s e o o n b ohn t Co eap s ca t., J trea ang S m r e r e n R t i a I . t o w .org lien ed t Bald a, C pinc r ne k a o 122 s t s s a r n stio ska@ e Ju qu e arri jura c C r t o tac 027 con 25-2 7 ) (607
during M4’s First Friday Event! The top five will compete on during Saturday, June 9th between 4pm-8pm in a variety of challenges. Each challenge will eliminate one finalist until there is only one last man standing.
For more information about these events,
In addition to M4’s Mr. Pride Competition, M4 will be hosting the
visit m4project.com
“Out and Loud Block Party” following Pride Palooza, Saturday, June 9th, on State Street in Binghamton from 8pm-10pm with
Don’t forget to like
DJ Sonny King, playing today’s best dance music. Come out and
their Facebook page!
celebrate Pride with M4!
facebook.com/m4project
combined with other items to make a nice give-away. 6
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don’t be left on the porch...
JOIN US FOR THE 10TH ANNUAL
doggone fun on the run
discover your inner hero Join us for the 14th annual AIDS Ride for Life on September 15th, 2012. We challenge you to discover a way to become involved in this incredible event. Over 350 cyclists bike 42, 50, 90 or 100 miles around Cayuga Lake. You can sponsor riders, volunteer your time as a volunteer, a motorcyclist or even
WHO
Southern Tier AIDS Program
a support vehicle driver! We want you to be a part of this community event.
WHAT
Doggone Fun on the Run The event shows the commitment of our community to be a
Ready to have some doggone fun? Join us on July 21, 2012 for the 10th annual Doggone Fun on the Run, a 2-mile fundraising walk/ run in Otsiningo Park followed by a post party. The Doggone Fun on the Run is the premier canine event of the season. Funds raised support the Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) program at the Southern Tier AIDS Program. The PAWS program
WHEN
July 21, 2012
presence, to bear witness and to support those impacted by HIV
10 AM Goodie Bag Pick-Up
and AIDS so that they will not have to be alone.
11 AM Walk Begins Each rider has their own reasons for riding. Many may ride in
WHERE Otsiningo Park, Binghamton
support someone in their lives affected by the disease. Please WHY
The Doggone Fun on the Run supports the
read the small excerpt here from one of our heroes, Mark
PAWS Program at STAP.
Pederson, on why he rides.
HOW
Register online at doggonefunontherun.org
For the full story and more stories like this, stay tuned to
offers HIV+ people practical support in an effort to keep the love and companionship of their pets. Don't be left on the porch!
honor of a family member or a friend lost to AIDS, or even to
aidsrideforlife.org as we release stories from many of our heroes leading up to the 14th annual AIDS Ride for Life! 8
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e of it ea ch d I am aw ar an an m y ry lu ck “I am on e ve in th e va st ar e th at I am aw e it qu m al so day. A n d I’ pe ople w ho m any ot h er so e ar e er at th m ay m inor it y; th bi rt h , et c, s, pl ac e of ce en ri pe r li fe ex du e to th ei li ke I h av e. at th e od ds an ce to be ch e th e not h av ag en cy in lo ca l A ID S ar d of th e bo e th ed su m er ” of W h en I join ic e of a “c on elp be a vo h to d te I st op pe d 19 9 9 I w an e w ent on , es . A s ti m ic rv se ’s ra titu de th e ag en cy a debt of g but fe lt su ch er m su n th at I bein g a co be en g iv en supp or t I’d d an p el h ss ib le . for al l th e any w ay po e to h elp in u n ti n co w ante d to
e th an e I w as mor of T h e R id s ar ye n te t st op F or th e fi rs at th e fi rs t C oord in at or op St it P e th ri ders h ap py to be de d ic at ed g so m any n ri ee ch ke ev en my alon g th e la ti m es an d de se vera l ro er n rt pa is e alon g. My d th em to ra I en co u ra ge as e ic tw de g ra tefu l.” te en son ro e w er e al l to w h ic h w cy en ag fu n ds for an
thanks
get away with jetaway! AIDS WALK Run 2012
Look who adopted Robbie’s Pantry! The Student Assembly of
Many thanks go out to the 90 volunteers who gave so generously
Broome Community College, that’s who. They collected over
of their time to make our AIDS Walk/Run with a Twist so
$250.00 of merchandise during the month of February and into
successful.
the month of March 2012. Robbie’s Pantry was established for
especially when we have an event.
the clients of STAP to use as a last resort. It holds items that are not available in other pantries or can be purchased with food stamps. Willie Murray spearheaded the project by making announcements to faculty and students and then placeed collection boxes around the campus. Many thanks go out to Willie and his fellow Broome Community College students. We would also like to thank Beth Harrington and the Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response, JoAnn Lindstrom with The College of Community and Public Affairs and the Division of External Affairs. They adopted Robbie’s pantry in April 2012.
STAP is so appreciative of all our volunteers
STAP’S ROCK STAR CELEBRITY BARTENDING BASH There was a full-house for the 2012 annual Bartending Bash.
Travel Your Jetaway Travel Consultant Judy Wendland 607-754-5856 jwendland@uni-world.com
Hundreds of people came out to enjoy the festivities and tip their favorite bartenders! A record-breaking $15,080.00 was raised. A huge thank you to: Remlik’s, Laura, Barbara & Joanie Ellis, Candace Chapman, Andrea Vaioli, Brett Chellis, Jordan Patch, Chris Waters, Dr. Colin Marcus, Tony Fiala, Jason Fiume, Michael Libous, Mayor Ryan, Steven Nanni, Katrina, DeDe Kupps, Dusty Boxx, Chris Pellicano, Marina Huebner, Joan Marean, Angelo Fiori, a host of
To obtain more information on how you can adopt the pantry
STAP volunteers and to all the guest for making this event
please contact Candace Phelan at cphelan@stapinc.org or by
such a success. We hope to see you again next year!
calling 1800-333-0892 ext. 225.
Wo
rld
Robbie’s Pantry
Planning to travel? When you book your cruise, tour, flights or other travel arrangements with Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel, a portion of the commission with be donated to STAP. As part of the new Jetaway Travel Ambassador program, Judi is partnering with select non-profit agencies to help raise funds for their organizations and make a positive impact within the community. Call Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel and mention that you are a supporter of STAP when you make your booking. Judi Wendland at Jetaway Travel... a Friend Who Cares!
Volunteering If you want to volunteer, please email Candace Phelan, cphelan@stapinc.org, or call 800-333-0892 ext. 225, and let her know what you would like to do.
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Southern Tier AIDS Program, Inc. 122 Baldwin Street Johnson City, NY 13790
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID Albany, NY PERMIT # 164 ZIP CODE 12205
Spring 2012
STAP
is serving more men, women, and children than ever in our nearly 30 years of providing services. Say “I care” by sending your gift today. Your generosity makes a difference! Yes! I can help the Southern Tier AIDS Program continue to provide services for people living with HIV/AIDS and provide prevention services to help reduce the rate of HIV infection in the Southern Tier. Enclosed is my tax-deductible donation of:
❑ $25
❑ $50
❑ $100
❑ $250
❑ Other: $_________
Checks should be made payable to:
STAP, 122 Baldwin St., Johnson City, NY 13790 Please charge my donation to my:
❑ Visa
❑ Mastercard
Name:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
CC#: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Address:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Exp. Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
______________________ __________________
Signature:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
friends who care