MANDATE To prevent the spread of blood borne pathogens and sexually transmitted infections and to create supportive environments which diminish risk. OBJECTIVES To increase access to prevention and support services for people living with blood borne pathogens To increase collaboration between agencies, government sectors, and stakeholders in addressing issues related to blood borne pathogens and sexually transmitted infections. To increase access to prevention education, care and support services for vulnerable populations To strengthen the organization to ensure we are able to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve APPROACH The Ally Centre of Cape Breton uses two basic approaches to its work of preventing the spread of blood borne pathogens and sexually transmitted diseases: Harm Reduction Harm Reduction refers to policies, programs and practices that aim to reduce the negative health, social and economic consequences that may ensue from the use of legal and illegal psychoactive drugs, without necessarily reducing drug use. Its cornerstones are public health, human rights and social justice. It benefits people who use drugs, families and communities. Community Development Community Development is about the active involvement of people in the issues which affect their lives. it is a process based on the sharing of power, skills, knowledge and experience