Shift Program

Shift Calgary invites you to C-Square Sunday June 2nd from 12-3 pm to celebrate International Sex Workers Day. This day is a day to recognize sex work as legitimate work and advocate for the rights of sex workers everywhere! June 2_International Sex Worker Day Event Final.pdf

Come join the Shift Program for a fun night of board games! Play some games and enjoy some snacks and company. Please consider bringing a dish for the potluck. When: July 11, 6:00-8:00 pm Where: HIV Community Link Client Services Please RSVP for this event with [email protected] or at 587-999-3304 For more about the Shift Program visit http://www.shiftcalgary.org/ Shift Board Game Night (1).pdf

Join us for an unforgettable evening for our 7th annual Splash of Red Cirque Gala on May 11, 2019! The Fairmont Palliser will be the setting for an evening of Circus excitement complemented by live music, art, drag performances, amazing entertainment by BassBus along with live and silent auction featuring one of a kind art and unbelievable experiences. Splash of Red raises awareness of the issues surrounding HIV and provides critical funds to our prevention, education and support programs in Calgary and across Southeastern Alberta. Presenting Sponsor: TD Bronze Sponsor: Twisted Element and Global Public Affairs Special thank you to: William Joseph Communications and BassBus Exclusive Media Sponsors: Global Calgary and Global News Radio 770 CHQR. Tickets: $125 VIP table of six (includes VIP pre-reception) -$1,000 Splash of Red Night Out Package for only $399. Make a night out of the Splash of Red event, and stay at the Fairmont Hotel for the whole evening. Your Date Night Out package includes your stay at the Fairmont, in addition to two tickets for the main event. See how last year was at https://youtu.be/KmGOaJjlwLc Tickets can be found at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/splash-of-red-cirque-gala-tickets-55418230419

Upcoming events for May:- May 2 & 16: - Safeworks STI Testing- 2:00-3:30 pm- May 8- Game Day: come play cards or a board game ** for registered clients- 2:00 pm- May 14- Movie Afternoon- 2:00-4:00 pm- May 21- Meditation Workshop- 2:00-4:00 pm- May 23: - Shift Tea** for registered Shift clients - 2:00 pm- May 29- Volunteer Activity Night- 5:00 pmAll events are located at 110- 1603 10 Ave SW, CalgaryFor more information or if you have questions contact me via pm, email ([email protected]) or at 587-999-3304 🙂

^ it would be great to have you join us! I will post when we have the rescheduled date confirmed or feel free to message me and I can contact you directly 🙂

RESCHEDULED- DATE TBD

Indoor Workers Potluck & Board Games NightHosted by Shift CalgaryWhere: 110-1603 10 Ave SW When: April 25 6:00-8:00 pmThis event is open to any indoor workers in Calgary regardless of whether you are a Shift client. Come join us for a fun night of board games and a chance to socialize with other workers in Calgary. Bring a food item of your choice. For more information message me here or at 587-999-3304. Looking forward to meeting you!

Need safer sex supplies but don't want to leave your home? Do you live in Calgary? I will be out tomorrow night, and every Wednesday evening, with the Safeworks van distributing supplies all around the city! To access this service phone the van at 403-850-3755 and leave a message with a name and location, staff will phone you back to confirm details before arriving. The earlier you phone the more likely you are to get services. All services are free, confidential and do not require appointments! I will be with the van and all staff operate from a harm-reduction approach. Don't hesitate to message me with any questions! 🙂

Shift has a harm reduction and rights-based approach to sex work. We recognize that sex work is a choice for many, and respect the rights of adults to make this choice. We also recognize that for some, factors such as poverty or exploitation can put people into situations where they don’t have control. We are non-exit based and do not require abstinence from sex work to access our services. What can we do for you? Supportive counselling and case management Free safer sex supplies Advocacy: Income supports, Child and Family Services, etc. Escort, Massage, Entertainment licensing information and support Sexual health information Referrals for low-cost contraception and for HIV and STI testing Working safely: “Bad Date” reporting, safer working strategies (date screening, condom negotiation) Referrals: Mental health, substance use treatment, housing, financial, employment, basic needs, legal How to become a client: In order to access these services, with the exception of harm reduction and safer sex supplies, you must be a registered client with Shift. To become registered you can drop by the space at 1603 10 Ave SW to do an intake, or I can meet you in a location in the community. This could be a coffee shop or any public space in which you are comfortable discussing private information. The office location consists of a drop-in space for registered clients and private rooms for confidential discussions and intakes. Intakes can be done under an alias if you are not comfortable using your given name. The drop-in location is open Tuesday-Friday from 9-4 (closed between 12:30-1:30) and I am available in community Monday-Friday by appointment. To connect with me either privately message me or text/call 587-999-3304

Safeworks will be putting on an STI Testing Clinic at HIV Community Link (1603 10 Ave SW, Calgary) on Thursday, March 21 from 2-3:30. Come by for FREE rapid testing in a non-judgmental space. Testing with Safeworks can be done anonymously under an alias with trained, compassionate staff. HIV Community Link runs the Shift program which is a harm-reduction and non-exit support program for sex workers, feel free to stop in before or after testing to chat about our services! Our drop-in space is open 9-4 (closed for lunch from 12:30-1:30) Tuesday-Friday

[B][I]What is Shift?[/I][/B] Shift provides support services to adults currently and formerly working in the sex industry to improve their quality of life and achieve individualized goals. We have a harm reduction and rights based approach to sex work; this means that the safety and human rights of sex workers are our focus. We recognize that sex work is a choice for many in the industry, and we respect the rights of adults to make this choice. [B][I]What Does Shift Do?[/I][/B] Shiftâ??s services are non-judgmental, free, and easy to access. We work with you to identify your goals and needs, and then support you with obtaining the tools and resources needed to achieve them. These supports can be things like counseling, education, advocacy, and skills development - or practical supports such as referrals or emergency funding. We can also work with you around sex work specific issues such as obtaining licensing, managing personal relationships, working safely (date screening, condom negotiation), and transitioning out of the industry. [B][I]How can I contact Shift?[/I][/B] If you would like to get in touch with us, give us a call at (403) 237-8171 or e-mail us at [EMAIL="[email protected]"][email protected][/EMAIL]. We respect and hold the confidentiality of those we work with in the highest; we also let you choose how much personal information you share with us. Real name, phone number, and other information is not required to access supports from us.

Hello Everyone, We have a super short (1 question) survey that we are asking SP's to answer to find out how long local SP's have known about Shift Calgary and our services. This information helps us to know how well we are doing at getting our name out there. Responses are anonymous: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/DKDYB7J Thank you in advance for your participation!

What is Red Umbrella Day? The red umbrella was adopted in 2002 by Venetian sex workers for an anti-violence march as a symbol of resistance against discrimination of sex workers worldwide. The day calls attention to the hate crimes, violence, and discrimination that sex workers face while urging the public to respect the rights of sex workers.

Participants Needed for Shift Focus Group Over the summer Shift conducted research with indoor sex workers in Calgary. We learned a lot about different health, wellbeing, safety and security concerns among indoor workers. Help us put your thoughts into action! We are looking for indoor sex workers to take part in another focus group discussion. Shift would like to present a summary of what we learned and discuss the recommendations made by participants, and how we can make them a reality. Participation in this focus group is voluntary and completely anonymous! You do not need to have participated in the previous research. Two focus groups will be held at the Shift office: Option1: Tuesday November 27th at 6:30pm Option 2: Saturday December 1st at 2pm Light refreshments will be served. To compensate you for your time and contribution to this project, all participants will receive an honorarium of $40. Space is limited. For more information about this focus group, or to volunteer, please contact Grace at: 403-237-8171 or [email protected] What is Shift? Shift provides individualized support services to adults who are currently or formerly working in the sex industry. Our program is not exit based; this means that wanting to leave the industry is not a requirement for our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. [email protected]

The Calgary Bad Date Sheet has been updated. Find it here http://www.shiftcalgary.org/uploads/Bad_Date_Sheet_August_2012.pdf Shift publishes the Calgary Bad Date Sheet so sex workers can share bad experiences and help protect each other. If you are in Calgary, please report any bad dates you have had anonymously and confidentially. You can report online at www.shiftcalgary.org or leave a message on our 24 hour hot-line number: (403) 237- 8171. Staff at Safeworks, Calgary Drop-In Centre, and Shift can also help you to report. Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

Are you an indoor sex worker? Do you work in Calgary? If so, Shift is inviting you participate in a research project about indoor sex work in Calgary. Shift is currently doing research about the diversity of needs in sex work. The purpose of the research is to better understand issues and needs of indoor workers so that Shift can better serve and engage with you. During this discussion you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts about indoor sex work, and needs and concerns regarding health and well-being, safety, working conditions and service provision, in a casual environment and with complete confidentiality. As an indoor sex worker, your opinions are extremely valuable in helping Shift improve service provision to meet the needs of all indoor workers. Your input will greatly help Shift to better serve this group within Calgary. Our interview will take place at the Shift Office, and should last between 45 minutes to an hour. To compensate you for your time and contribution to this research project, all participants will receive an honorarium. Participation is voluntary. Please be assured that anything you say during the focus group will be kept strictly confidential. For more information about this research, or to volunteer for this research, please contact Grace Samuel at 403-508-2500 or info@shiftcalgary org I look forward to hearing from you!

Are you an indoor sex worker? Do you work in Calgary? If so, Shift is inviting you to be a part of a focus group discussion about indoor sex work in Calgary. Shift is currently doing research about the diversity of needs in sex work. The purpose of the research is to better understand issues and needs of indoor workers so that Shift can better serve and engage with you. During this discussion you will have the opportunity to share your experiences and thoughts about indoor sex work, and your needs and concerns regarding health and well-being, safety, working conditions and service provision, in a casual environment and with complete confidentiality. As an indoor sex worker, your experiences are extremely valuable in helping Shift improve service provision to meet the needs of all indoor workers. Your input will greatly help Shift to better serve this group within Calgary. The focus group will be held on Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at 3pm in the Shift office. The discussion should last approximately one hour. To compensate you for your time and contribution to this research project, all participants will receive an honorarium. Participation is voluntary. Please be assured that anything you say during the focus group will be kept strictly confidential. For more information about this research, or to volunteer for this research, please contact Grace Samuel at 403-508-2500 or info@shiftcalgary org I look forward to hearing from you! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us.

Are you an indoor sex worker? Do you work in Calgary? If so, Shift is inviting you to be a part of a focus group discussion about indoor sex work in Calgary. Shift is currently doing research about the diversity of needs in sex work. The purpose of the research is to better understand issues and needs of indoor workers so that Shift can better serve and engage with you. During this discussion you will have the opportunity to share your experiences and thoughts about indoor sex work, and your needs and concerns regarding your health and well-being, safety, working conditions and service provision, in a casual environment and with complete confidentiality. As an indoor sex worker, your experiences are extremely valuable in helping Shift improve service provision to meet the needs of all indoor workers. Your input will greatly help Shift to better serve this group within Calgary. The focus group will be held in mid-August (date to be determined) at the Shift office. To compensate you for your time and contribution to this research project, all participants will receive an honorarium. Participation is voluntary. Please be assured that anything you say during the focus group will be kept strictly confidential. For more information about this research, or to volunteer for this research, please contact Grace Samuel at 403-508-2500 or info@shiftcalgary org I look forward to hearing from you! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us.

Are you an indoor sex worker? Do you work in Calgary? Have you worked in an indoor venue within the past 5 years? (brothel, massage parlour, in- call or out- call, etc) If you answered yes to the above questions Shift is inviting you to participate in a focus group discussion about indoor sex work in Calgary. Shift Calgary is currently conducting research about the diversity of needs in sex work. The purpose of the research is to better understand issues and needs of indoor workers so that Shift can better serve and engage this particular population. During this discussion you will have the opportunity to share your experiences and thoughts about indoor sex work, and your needs and concerns regarding your health and well-being, safety, working conditions and service provision, in a casual environment and with complete confidentiality. As an indoor sex worker, your experiences are extremely valuable in helping Shift improve service provision to meet the needs of all indoor workers. Your input will greatly help Shift to better serve this group within Calgary. The focus group will be held in mid-August (date to be determined) at the Shift office. To compensate you for your time and contribution to this research project, all participants will receive an honorarium of $20. Participation is voluntary. Please be assured that anything you say during the focus group will be kept strictly confidential. No personal identifying information will be collected and information that is included in our reports will not be linked to you. For more information about this research, or to volunteer for this research, please contact 403-508-2500 or info@shiftcalgary org I look forward to hearing from you! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us.

Below is a link to Sunday's Session at the AIDS 2012 Conference titled A call to action: Global Sex Workers Recommend Policy Change for Better HIV Prev & treatment http://globalhealth.kff.org/AIDS2012/July-22/A-call-to-action-global.aspx Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Out program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403. 403. 237.8171 [email protected]

Hey Calgary sex workers, Can you provide specific examples of ways we could connect with indoor workers? (for example, do we need different programs, where could we meet people?) Looking forward to hearing from you! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Out program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403. 403. 237.8171 [email protected]

Do you enjoy expressing yourself through writing or are you interested in finding your voice and expressing yourself? Shift Calgary offers a creative writing network for clients. This is an opportunity to network with like-minded people, share your words, listen to others, and receive constructive feedback from you peers. No past writing experience is required. Our next creative writing network in on Friday, July 20th at 11am. Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Out program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403. 403. 237.8171 [email protected]

One Vancouver madam gives her views on indoor sex work in this article titled "Time for prostitution to go indoors: Vancouver madam" http://www.openfile.ca/vancouver/story/time-prostitution-go-indoors-vancouver-madam Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved, in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. Shift 403.237.8171 [email protected]

Happy Friday! Shiftâ??s July calendar of events is posted on our website- check it out at [URL]http://www.shiftcalgary.org/Events.html[/URL] Enjoy the Canada Day long weekend!!! [COLOR=red]Shift[/COLOR] provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved, in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you [COLOR=red]Shift[/COLOR] 403.237.8171 [EMAIL="[email protected]"][email protected][/EMAIL]