Ten Years and Counting: Volunteers Are Still ASA’s Backbone
AIDS Services of Austin was founded 10 years ago by volunteers. Much has
changed since then, but one thing has remained constant: ASA uses volunteers — lots
and lots of volunteers — to perform its demanding mission because in Texas AIDS
has always been short-funded. And in this age of government funding cites, that
volunteer assistance is more important than ever.
At a recent national convention of AIDS agencies, it emerged that ASA has
the highest volunteer-to-staff ratio of any agency there. Twice what New York
has. Three times that of San Francisco. We depend on a whopping 11 volunteers for each
staff member! And like those famous potato chips, we always need more.
To enter the wonderful realm of ASA volunteers, most people attend out
monthly Volunteer Orientation, which surveys the essential issues facing HIV-positive
people and introduces ASA’s programs. They then are worked into the volunteer system
according to their interests, degree of time committed and scheduling availability.
We can accomodate everyone who wants to help, from students who can drop
by occassionally on Thursday evenings to stuff envelopes; up to the retired physician willing
to trainfellow healthcare professionals.
Currently, we especially need “direct care” volunteers to do
hands-on work with HIV-positive people. That may be practical tasks, such as shopping
and cooking, or it may be primarily emotional support. Right now we especially
need people to provide transportation by car to medical appointments, etc. Come give us
you most valuable resources: time, effort, and compassionate commitment. Satisfaction
guaranteed!
— Sandy Bartlett
Public INformation/Education Coordinator, ASA
ASA Info Line: 458-AIDS
This article appears in August 1 • 1997 and August 1 • 1997 (Cover).