ANNUAL REPORTS ...
Over 25 years ago, the Damien Center opened its doors becoming the first drop-in center for people with HIV/AIDS in the United States. Those early days of the epidemic were fraught with fear, anger, stigma, discrimination and, unfortunately, too many deaths of incredible human beings. Against that backdrop, the Damien Center provided basic life affirming services and a sense of belonging to those who walked through our doors. Over the past quarter century, while other agencies have closed their doors or moved on from HIV/AIDS services, the Damien Center has remained true to our original mission to enhance the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS.
Excerpt from Board of Director's letter in 2015 Annual Report
Click here or on the cover to read more
In 2014, your generosity helped us embark on a new
beginning for the Damien Center and the people we serve....
'Reestablishing our agency was only the first part of the story in 2014. A new site in Schenectady. A new prevention program. Progress on our new Albany site. Member attendance above pre‐fire levels. Active participation in Ending the AIDS Epidemic statewide efforts. Who would have thought after fire destroyed all we owned that we’d be sharing such successes now? Who could have imagined sharing such successes now?'
Excerpt from Executive Director's letter in 2014 Annual Report 'A New Beginning'
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In 2013, your kindness gave us great strength...
'On August 29th we lost our home of 15 years as our building and all its contents were devastated by fire. We quickly found the fire brought out the absolute best in our local community ... In the ends, the fire did not define us as much as it showed our incredible strength to rise out of the ashes as a vital resource in our community ...' click here to read more
Excerpt from Executive Director's letter in 2013 Annual Report 'Out of the Ashes'
In 2012, Dr. Maya Angelou captured the essence of our work
at the Albany Damien Center ...
'My mission in life is not merely to survive, but thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style'
A member's testimony gave witness ...
'This agency has given me my life back. The Center has put people
in my life who love me and understand the struggles we face.
I walk with my head held high. I am not alone.'
“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.”
—Aristotle
The quote from Aristotle is a perfect salute to the efforts of the
Albany Damien Center in 2011. Our staff, board, volunteers, funders,
and community worked in a team effort to help our members living
with HIV/AIDS.
Our model is still the same as when we opened our doors in
1990. We treat each person with respect and provide unique programs
in a comfortable, supportive living room environment.
In 2011, we ... click here to read more
—Aristotle
The quote from Aristotle is a perfect salute to the efforts of the
Albany Damien Center in 2011. Our staff, board, volunteers, funders,
and community worked in a team effort to help our members living
with HIV/AIDS.
Our model is still the same as when we opened our doors in
1990. We treat each person with respect and provide unique programs
in a comfortable, supportive living room environment.
In 2011, we ... click here to read more
