Project Updates

June 2003

Speak Up has been working closely with March of Dimes in Hamilton in providing consumer education sessions on sexuality and safeguarding. Preparations are being made with Participation Projects-Sudbury and District to transfer the project services there in September 2003.

Services for People who use AAC:

8 clients are involved in sexual health education services April – May 2003 in Hamilton. This group is currently participating in a 10 week series of workshops on strategies to reduce their risk for sexual assault/victimization (June – July 2003). Peer Support groups continue to be provided to Speak Up participants in the Toronto area.

Development of Vocabulary:

48 sample communication displays and instructions for customizing displays have been posted on the Speak Up website. The new pictures are available from Mayer-Johnson Inc. on a CD-ROM "Communicating about Sexuality".

Resources and Services:

Speak Up continues to investigate pertinent resources and to share these on our website. In addition, we are surveying and sharing information about accessible services relating to AAC, sexual health and abuse counseling in the Toronto and Hamilton area.

Community Workshops:

Speak Up conducted a workshop for abuse counsellors and sexual health educators in the Hamilton area. This workshop was attended by 17 participants. A workshop is planned for Sept. 8, 2003 in Sudbury. This workshop will be co-sponsored by Participation Projects-Sudbury and District and The Sudbury Women's Centre.