CAYR COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS was originally founded as the AIDS Committee of York Region in 1993 and formally incorporated as a registered charitable organization in 1996.

Our Vision
We envision stigma-free, inclusive and informed communities, fostering an environment where individuals thrive.

Our Mission
CAYR creates welcoming, confidential, and inclusive environments for dignified support and education, empowering a diverse population including:

People living with and those affected by HIV/AIDS
Individuals affected by or at risk of HIV/Hepatitis C
People who use substances
Members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and
Allies and partners supporting underserved communities

Our Values:

Inclusion
We cultivate an environment where individuals and communities can equitably and meaningfully achieve their full potential.

Self-Determination
We uphold human dignity and the rights of individuals and communities to make informed choices.

Well-Being
We nurture a holistic approach to well-being that includes physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspirations.

Collaboration
We build upon the collective strengths of individuals and communities.

Our values are rooted in the principles of:

Greater and meaningful involvement and engagement of people with lived experience of HIV/AIDS, drug and substance use, as well as 2SLGBTQ+ identified community members.
Harm Reduction
Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression