About Us
What We Do
Peer Outreach is a low-barrier employment program in which PWLLE meets folks where they’re at to provide basic needs, harm reduction supplies, and friendly interactions.
Peer Navigation is a 1:1 peer support program in which trained staff set goals, follow up, and guide PWLLE through the web of system resources in collaboration with partner organisations.
Community Engagement is the aspect of the organisation that synthesises educational materials and program information for public consumption. Our content raises awareness about the benefits of harm reduction and respectful engagement with PWLLE.
Washroom Attendants (2023 Pilot Project) is a collaborative effort with the City of Calgary aimed towards improving safety, cleanliness, accessibility, and disorder in Olympic Plaza and Century Gardens while engaging PWLLE who are facing barriers to employment.
Mobile Drug Checking is a federally funded program designed to use existing technology to check drug compositions and provide real-time results. The mobile service offers opportunities for accessible harm reduction education and wrap-around support.
Our Story
AAWEAR is a peer-led collective of grassroots chapters located in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, and Lethbridge. Since 2004, our members, volunteers and staff have advocated for the rights of people who use drugs with a vision to foster a society in which all people who use drugs are treated with respect, dignity, and the right to self-determination. We accomplish this through programming that empowers our members to participate meaningfully in the community and obtain employment. AAWEAR is led by people with lived or living experiences of using criminalized substances and their allies.
Our Mission
To improve the lives of under-served populations through support, education and collaborative positive action.
Through partnerships and advocacy, we seek to remove barriers for all individuals who access harm reduction and build relationships based on trust, credibility and compassion.