History

1987

A small group of concerned people get together to respond to the growing need for HIV/AIDS services in Peterborough.

1990

PARN opens its doors as an incorporated agency on August 8 at 311 George Street North in Peterborough.

1992

PARN launches its first ever AIDS Walk in September and the inaugural Red Ribbon Campaign at the end of November.

1993

PARN completes a thorough survey of local young people which shows a clear need for HIV and sexual health related education.

1994

PARN moves to 160 Charlotte Street.

1996-1998

PARN is able to respond more to the growing number of clients who are incarcerated with the hiring of a Prison Support Worker. PARN also begins to research the possibilities and potential of a needle exchange program.

1999

PARN moves its office to 159 King Street.

2000

PARN becomes a recipient of United Way funding for prevention education work in the County of Peterborough.

2001

PARN receives a Trillium Foundation grant for $159,000 for a 3-year rural outreach project which allows for the hiring of an outreach worker.

2002

A decision is made to focus on the agency name as “PARN,” not Peterborough AIDS Resource Network. A new media face is launched with a new logo, tag line, PARN brochure and materials, and an updated website. PARN – Your Community AIDS Resource Network launches.

2004

Due to a major flood in July, PARN’s office is relocated twice, temporarily resting at 140 King Street, with a move in early December back to 159 King Street

2006

In recognition of the lack of HIV specialist services in Peterborough and the Four Counties, the AIDS Bureau provides funding to the Positive Care Clinic/Lakeridge Health to provide outreach clinic services in Peterborough one day a week.

2009

PARN hires an HIV/IDU worker in April to work with peer outreach volunteers to distribute clean injection equipment to people who are unwilling or unable to go to a needle exchange site. On World AIDS Day, Peterborough MPP Jeff Leal announces funding for the Women & HIV Community Development Program. A coordinator for the program is hired in March 2010.

2022

PARN moves its office to its current location at 60 Hunter Street East.