The Ankali Project in Sydney, Australia | Government organisation

The Ankali Project

Locality: Sydney, Australia

Phone: +61 2 9332 9742

Address: 150 Albion St 2010 Sydney, NSW, Australia

Website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project

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• Medical and health
• Community organisation
• Government organisation

25.01.2022 Today, as with the end of every week, you might hear people saying 'happy Friday'. From the Ankali Project, we're also wishing everyone all the best for World Aids Day. This Sunday December 1 is World Aids Day and we're here with our community, to remember, to care, to support, and to make a difference. The Ankali Project and our volunteers work with positive people to reduce social isolation, and stand against stigma and discrimination. Happy Friday all, and happy World Aids Day!

24.01.2022 It's underway! We're in the middle of a pandemic but people are still ready to show care and kindness. This weekend new volunteers are training with the Ankali Project, getting ready to support isolated people living with HIV. What a community this is! And what treats we have (5 kilos worth of sweet treats thanks to our volunteer and baker extraordinaire Scott)!

24.01.2022 Ankali volunteers at the end of year social gathering. Good people having a good time - together!

23.01.2022 The 107th Ankali training is well underway with a very engaged group of compassionate people from diverse backgrounds. ''I learned a lot more than I thought I would - tested my own biases and perceptions and now I am more aware in order to manage them'. As per usual, the sessions with our volunteer and client panels, as well as the speakers from Positive Life NSW's Positive Speakers Bureau rated highly in the evaluations.... We thank everyone for their efforts this weekend, and wish you all a good week ahead before the third and final day of training this coming Saturday.

22.01.2022 This was Ankali in 2020! Imagine what the Ankali team can do in 2021! Ankali volunteers are extraordinary folk doing ordinary things with extraordinary outcomes. Happy New Year to Ankali volunteers, friends and family!

21.01.2022 People volunteer for lots of different reasons, and it's completely natural to feel some trepidation with starting any new role. Our intake process and training program are designed to empower you, and make you feel confident to step into the Ankali volunteer role. Like it did with Sarah:... ''I got involved with the Ankali Project after looking for a flexible way to do something positive with my spare time. The Ankali Team welcomed me warmly into the project and provided training so I felt prepared and supported in my new role. They took the time to get to know me and matched me with someone who I was able to connect with and who had needs and expectations that suited my availability. Over the past year or so, my relationship with my Ankali has turned into a great friendship and I always look forward to our weekly catch-ups. Being a part of the Ankali Project has been a fantastic and rewarding experience. The Ankali Team make you feel like a part of the family, and through the volunteer training and fortnightly meetings I have met so many wonderfully kind and interesting people from different walks of life.'' Send us a direct message if you're interested in more information about volunteering. Continued happy 'Volunteer Week', everyone!

20.01.2022 Ankali volunteers do this every day......

19.01.2022 Life as we knew it has changed. The COVID-19 pandemic has created uncertainty in our work, family, and community lives. With no clear end in sight, and with changes occurring daily, it can be difficult to adjust to this new normal. From physical distancing to practising good hand hygiene these have become part of our daily routines. A rapidly-changing environment has meant a greater need for us to be agile and adaptive. This is challenging - and even more challenging for ...those of us who dont like change at the best of times. Being overwhelmed and feeling like we arent in control of our own lives can lead to frustration and burn-out. Here are nine tips to help you adjust to our new normal: Be accepting of the situation Respond instead of reacting Give yourself time to process new information Allow yourself time to adapt to change. Everyone reacts to new things differently Be flexible and open to relinquishing control over the situation Go easy on yourself and manage expectations at work and at home Focus on what you can do, not on what you cant Set new routines that work for you and dont pressure yourself Practise mindfulness. Be in the moment and focus on what you can achieve today. Access support. Ankali volunteers support clients, and volunteers also get support themselves through group, with fellow volunteers, and with staff. See more

19.01.2022 Today is International Volunteer Day. The theme for 2020 is: 'Together We Can Through Volunteering'. We are incredibly proud of our volunteer community - especially this year. ... Ankali Volunteers have continued to provide emotional and/or social support to their Ankali clients throughout the year. We've had to adapt to changes ongoing due to lockdown and physical distancing measures- including introducing virtual support groups. We won an award for Volunteer Team of the Year! For more information about the day: https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org//international-vol/. And, if you're interested in becoming an Ankali volunteer yourself, please find more information on our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/ OR Give us a call (during business hours): 02 9332 9742.

18.01.2022 10 reasons to volunteer: 1.Volunteering improves the lives of others. 2. makes a community a better place. 3. lets you make a direct impact. ... 4. can teach you new skills. 5. develops close relationships with others. 6. can help get you active. 7. reduces stress. 8. good for your career. 9. boosts your mental health. 10. can help you live longer. Next Ankali training is 10, 11 & 17 October 2020 - please call if you are interested 02 9332 9742

17.01.2022 Did you know that the 1st ever Ankali volunteer training took place in May 1985 - making this the 35th anniversary year of the Ankali Project? The photo posted is an 1989 excerpt from 'The Medical Journal of Australia' - written by Albion Centre Director Professor Dr Julian Gold, Ankali Founder Jim Dykes Lesley Painter, and Louis McCallum. The article highlights (among other aspects) the importance of the Ankali volunteer support groups - facilitated and led by incredibly c...ommitted volunteer group leaders. 35 years later, Ankali volunteers continue to play an integral part in the lives of people living with HIV experiencing social isolation, by providing emotional and social support. Are you interested in joining this proud community of motivated, compassionate and dedicated volunteers? Please make contact and find out how to apply for the 108th Ankali Volunteer Training in March: 02 9332 9742. Application forms, and 2020 training dates can also be found on our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/.

17.01.2022 #ThrowbackThursday to a photo of one of the original four Ankali members, the late Reverend Jim Dykes. Jim arrived in Sydney in 1983 from the USA. By May 1985 he had sourced funding from the newly started Bobby Goldsmith Foundation to attend emotional support training in San Francisco. He took the material and knowledge from the training sessions back to Sydney, and established the Ankali Project at The Albion Centre with three colleagues. ... Jim's vision for Ankali was to provide a non-judgmental emotional support service to people living with HIV, that relied on volunteers also being well-supported. A quote from a 1992 interview, Jim explains: "The Ankali person is the one person, maybe the only person, in that man or woman's life who is saying "I don't know. I have no advice for you. I'll be here. I'll listen to you. I'll hold you. I'll do anything except tell you what to do." Happy 35 years to all our volunteers - past and present.

16.01.2022 Do your New Year's resolutions include being more involved in your community? Ankali volunteers have been providing emotional and social support to socially isolated people living with HIV for 35 years this year. Would you like to join our volunteer community? ... You'll learn the skills needed in a supportive and friendly environment, and be supported every step of the way via fortnightly emotional support groups, experienced volunteers, and the Ankali staff. The 108th Ankali training will take place in March, on the: 14th 15th 21st (all days must be attended). If you're curious, take a look at our website for more information: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/. Or, give us a call: 02 9332 9742.

15.01.2022 Paul Denham shares his experience as an Ankali Volunteer. Q: Why did you choose to volunteer at Ankali? A: I had been looking to get involved with a volunteer organisation for about 12 months. The ones I came across were either really hard to get into or werent quite what I was looking for. I wanted to do something more unique and deeper than serving in a soup kitchen or working in a charity shop. A friend of mine told me about Ankali. ... Q: What do you enjoy most about your experience as a volunteer? A: I could list dozens but this is the most powerful. With just about every Ankali client we support, there are vast improvements in their wellbeing. Being isolated from your family, friends and the community is devastating. Ive seen and experienced hopelessness turn into hope. Little by little Ankali volunteers every week, just for an hour or two, bring some humanity and compassion back into their lives. Its unspoken, its quiet, its slow. But its there and very powerful. So seeing the effects of clients and volunteers together is what I enjoy the most. Q: What has been the biggest takeaway for you and what advice would you give to someone considering to volunteer at Ankali? A: The biggest take away for me is simplicity. This program is so simple. I just turn up and listen to my client for two hours a week or whenever he can make it. Thats all Ive done. I am not a professional councillor. Im not a therapist. Im just another human turning up to listen and emotionally support another human. The Ankali structure supports me when Im not sure what to do and the training completely informs you of what to expect. There are no surprises. It is the most transparent and compassionate organisation I have ever experienced. Its a magical program that will allow you to deeply change someone elses well-being for the better. Our next Ankali volunteer training is on the 19, 20 and 26th October. To find out more about the project or the training, please comment below or send us a private message. We hope to hear from you.

15.01.2022 This week is National Volunteer Week. This year's theme is 'Changing Communities. Changing Lives'. Ankali Volunteers have been providing support to socially isolated people living with HIV since 1985. Here's a testimonial from a current volunteer, Pete: ... I joined the Ankali Project in 2017, wanting to give back to the community. Shortly after the comprehensive three-day volunteer training, I have been providing emotional support to my Ankali client, who is living with HIV and various mental health difficulties. Since the match, my Ankali has learned that he can always reach out to me for support and that I am always there for him in times of turmoil. Seeing that I have made a difference in his life has given me a sense of pride and fulfillment. Although the work is challenging at times, I always feel supported by all Albion social workers and fellow volunteers. I am grateful for this rewarding voluntary experience, and I hope to be part of the Ankali Project for many years to come.' Good on you, Pete - thanks for being part of our volunteer community. If you're interesting in becoming a volunteer, please find more information, volunteer training dates, and the application on our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/.

14.01.2022 What's it like for people living with HIV, and why do they need support? This video shows positive people talking about life after their HIV diagnosis. Marcos says 'at the beginning you just need to hear that.. you're not alone, I'm here caring for you, and it's going to be ok.' Ankali Project Volunteers provide valued social and emotional support to isolated positive people. If you'd like to hear more about volunteering with the Ankali Project phone 9332 9742 or email us at: [email protected] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ocaV8q0NWs

14.01.2022 Join us on the Ankali Training Workshops and make new friends, and learn valuable skills and knowledge in: (1) Developing communication skills (one-to-one and within a group) (2) Values and Ethical Dilemmas - how to deal with challenging situations and navigate personal boundaries... (3) Developing confidence to support for someone living with HIV and also your fellow volunteers Our next volunteer training (3 day) workshop begins on the 19th October (Sat), then 20 October (Sun) & 26 October (Sat). Applications closing soon! Email: [email protected]; PM us or leave a comment below or phone us on 9332 9742 and we will follow you up shortly It's a small step towards making a difference in someone else's and your own world.

14.01.2022 Ankali volunteer group leader meeting - a pleasure to spend time with these good and generous people.Many years of service to the Ankali project in this one picture.Thank you! Ankali volunteers provide social and emotional support to people living with HIV and are supported by attending a fortnightly support group. Ankali 02 9332 9742 for more info

14.01.2022 The Ankali Project connects volunteers to support socially isolated people living with HIV. As a volunteer, you're not only helping others, but there are personal benefits too, including opportunities to: - gain new skills and knowledge - boost your own job and career prospects - enjoy a sense of achievement and fulfilment... - boost your self esteem - enjoy better physical and mental health - connect to local community - meet new people and make new friends If you've been thinking about volunteering at the Ankali Project, get in touch and join our October Volunteer Training. You can reach us on 9332972, or email: [email protected]

13.01.2022 And it's a wrap! The Ankali Project finished the 109th Volunteer Training over the weekend and now warmly welcome 20 new volunteers to the community. Just look at these wonderful people! Together, we are kinder, connected, and stronger.

12.01.2022 It's been a month since our new volunteers completed volunteer training and joined our community. They've been settling into their volunteer support groups, meeting their clients, or waiting for their client match to be arranged. We're so lucky to have our community of volunteers, who are all about kindness, care, and support. We're here for socially isolated people living with HIV, for our diverse community, and for each other. If you'd like to find out more about volunteering with the Ankali Project, send us a message or call 9332 9742.

11.01.2022 Have you heard about the Ankali Project and what Ankali volunteers do? Volunteers provide valuable social and emotional support to isolated people living with HIV. This support helps clients feel understood, included, and more than just the health conditions they live with. Researchers at Rutgers University in New Jersey, US are adding to our knowledge of how important compassionate care is. Their study found that patients were more inclined to adhere to HIV treatment when th...eir primary care providers showed empathy, true listening, trust, consideration of the whole person, and involvement in decision making. Ankali volunteers are so valued for the support they provide to clients in need. If you're interested in volunteering with the Ankali Project and would like to know more, get in touch with us on ph: 9332 9742, or email us at: [email protected] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases//07/190714103135.htm

10.01.2022 After the three-day training, we welcome our new Ankali inductees to our amazing volunteer community.

10.01.2022 Ankali volunteers had a great time marching in the Mardi Gras parade!

09.01.2022 Volunteering has surprising benefits with opportunities to learn new skills, advance your career, connect with others, and bring fun and fulfilment to your life. If you've been thinking about volunteering, think about the Ankali Project. We offer comprehensive volunteer training to develop skills in empathy, listening, managing boundaries, grief and loss, and ethical dilemmas. We have flexible volunteer roles for you to meet with your client along a schedule and at times that suit the two of you. Get in touch with us to hear more about how you can volunteer with the Ankali Project. Ph 93329742 or email

09.01.2022 Earlier in the year, the Ankali Project managed to train and graduate 12 new volunteers. Theyve joined us in unprecedented times- attending their volunteer support groups via videoconferencing, and starting their Ankali relationships through phone contact only. We feel lucky to have such amazing volunteers in our community.... Please welcome these lovely people to our community.

07.01.2022 Have a question about our upcoming October training or why deeper social connections and flexible timing are some of the key reasons our volunteers choose Ankali? Ask us a question today and well reply back within 1-2 business days. https://www.facebook.com/events/686107208527692/?event_time_id=686107211861025?ti=icl

06.01.2022 22 wonderful people have completed the Ankali volunteer training so far in 2019. Do you have a couple hours to spare to be a friend for someone who is socially isolated and living with HIV? There's one more chance this year to take part in the Ankali Volunteer training program; a supportive three-day learning environment where you'll develop skills, and meet like-minded people from all walks of life.... If you're curious to find out more, please make contact with us on: 02 9332 9742, and visit our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/. Applications for the 107th Ankali Volunteer Training will close late next week.

05.01.2022 Ankali Kelly articulating her experience providing emotional and social support. Our upcoming three-day training is in October. Send us a DM if youre interested in becoming an Ankali volunteer, or visit our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/. ... Thank you so much for the 'shout-out', Kelly!

05.01.2022 Anyone else looking forward to getting back to 'precedented' times again? The last six months have been challenging, and everyone has been impacted one way or another. The Ankali volunteer community have responded, adapted and supported each other incredibly well throughout this period. ... In a COVID-safe way, Ankali volunteers have been able to provide a service, and been a support to our clients- in addition to continuing the fortnightly peer-led Ankali volunteer support groups virtually. Spring is just around the corner - let's remain hopeful for a better end to the year than how it has started. If you're curious to find out more about volunteering with the Ankali Project, please visit our website: http://thealbioncentre.org.au/ankali-project/, or give us a call: 02 9332 9742.

04.01.2022 Happy New Year to the extended Ankali family - previous volunteers, current volunteers, clients of the project!Happy New Year to the extended Ankali family - previous volunteers, current volunteers, clients of the project!

04.01.2022 Yesterday was World Aids Day and every journey counts, as you'll hear in this video, with John McAllister describing his experience of working with the HIV positive community since the 90's at St Vincents Hospital. 'A lot of patients are socially isolated- they lost their friends, their peer groups, and their support networks in those early years, and many are now very alone'. John talks about showing care with 'no judgement, no discrimination, and no stigma. Just love'. This is the type of care that our Ankali volunteers offer to the positive community. No judgement, no discrimination, no stigma- just love.

04.01.2022 Ankali volunteers: You all did it! Thanks to all Ankali volunteers past and present! We are really proud of you all and what you give to the community!

03.01.2022 How do you stay socially connected in these times? The Ankali Project is in it's 35th year of supporting socially isolated people living with HIV. We were marching in Mardi Gras this year, pre physical distancing measures. While covid-19 has changed our lives in the last month, we're still here to support our clients and volunteers. While face to face meetings are on hold, we're finding creative ways to stay in touch. There's phone calls, video calls, emails, texts, and sharing of pictures, articles, and online games. Our people still need care, contact, and connection, and the Ankali Project are still here for that.

02.01.2022 Despite the challenges this year has brought, and the last minute changes to plans many have endured during the holiday period - we hope you all get through the holiday season unscathed. Happy Holidays, and good bye to 2020!

02.01.2022 Today is R U OK Day. Ask someone you know and care about R U OK? R U OK? I am listening...

01.01.2022 There are only 3 weeks left to get an application in to join us at our volunteer training on 19, 20 & 26 October, 2019! Don't miss out on making a difference in the community by providing support to someone living with HIV. To express your interest or find out more, leave a comment below or private message us and we will get in touch with you.

01.01.2022 Did anyone watch "you can't ask that" on the ABC last night? The show featured 8 people talking about what it's really like to live with HIV. While the disease can be well managed with medication, the fear and stigma around HIV can change the lives of people living with it. The Ankali Project supports people living with HIV to feel included and accepted in society. Volunteers provide social and emotional support to clients, a balm for the fear and stigma that still exists. https://iview.abc.net.au//yo/series/5/video/LE1917H005S00

01.01.2022 What's it like volunteering at the Ankali Project? And what are the benefits? In volunteering with the Ankali Project, you join a community of 114 volunteers, who support socially isolated people living with HIV. You're matched with one client and develop a relationship with them, while providing social and emotional support. Your client gets something out of that- in being included, accepted, and more than just someone living with HIV. You might get something out of it too! ...Volunteers tell us that they love the training opportunities here, the ongoing support offered, and the flexibility of being able to give your time to your client at a time and schedule that suits you and your client. Our volunteers are connected, active members of our community, and meaninfully support against issues of loneliness, discrimmination, and stigma. If you're interested to know more about what volunteering is like, or if you'd like to go ahead and put in your application, get in touch with us now. Phone 9332 9742 or email us at: [email protected]