Saturday, September 22, 2012

Get to Know Us at WSKEO 100

As part of our year-long 40th anniversary celebrations, we are so excited to be taking part in the 100th instalment of the wildly popular "We Should Know Each Other" (WSKEO) party!  

The social mixer is taking place on September 29 and 30 at the former King Edward School.  The event will kick off the building's unveiling as an Arts Hub courtesy of the cSPACE Project.

For more info about the WSKEO event and to learn about other participating groups, please visit the WSKEO Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/wskeo


We will be hosting a series of FREE sex ed workshops and discussions that will have everyone talking!  Please check out the workshops below and register for any that catch your interest!



Talking With Your Kids
10:00-10:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012
This workshop is designed to give parents a brief intro to talking to their kids about human sexuality. Parents will learn about ages and development stages of children and what is maybe appropriate to talk about at each stage. For many parents this may be an awkward topic so we’ll talk about ways to break the ice and participate in a lifelong conversation around healthy sexuality.

To register:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/event/4355441242/eorg




Trans and Queer Identities 101
11:00-11:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012
The gender binary, transgender, genderqueer, two-spirit… These are terms and concepts that are being discussed more and more often in our society. This will be an opportunity to better understand the complexities of different gender identities and how the gender binary might be a thing of the past.


To Be A Feminist
1:00-1:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012
Join us as we talk about the other “F” word. The feminist perspective deeply informs the work that we do at the CSHC. We want to hear what Feminism means to you and the impact this important movement has had on your life.
To register:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/event/4357381044/eorg


Masculinity 101
2:00-2:30pm Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012

Are men today having a crisis of masculinity? Our society, with its use of media, language and social influence, puts a lot of pressure on guys to “Be a Man.” Join us in a discussion about masculinity in today’s culture where we’ll challenge you to think outside the “Man Box.”
To register:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/event/4357326882/eorg


Know Your "O" Part One
3:00-3:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012

What turns you on? In part one of two workshops, we will be talking about the anatomical and physiological responses our bodies have to stimulation. No matter what body you have, understanding what turns you on can lead to a healthier, happier sex life.


Know Your "O" Part Two
4:00-4:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012

So you know what turns you on and gets you going… how do you communicate that to a partner? In part two of Know Your “O” we’ll be focusing on the more personal side of arousal. We have a fun activity that will get people talking about their fantasies and turn-ons and practice saying yes or no to sexual scenarios.


Ask The Sexperts Q&A
5:00-5:30 Sat, Sept. 29th, 2012
Not everyone has someone they know and can trust to ask sexual health related questions. As sexual health educators one of the most fun things we do is answer those questions! We’ve heard from Grade 7,8,9 and 11 students and now we want to hear from you! What’s the wildest question we’ve ever been asked? You won’t know unless you come to the workshop! Don’t worry, there are no silly questions!


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The full range of our upcoming events can be found at:




Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Head Back to School with our Training Centre!

September means its time to head back to school!  Our Comprehensive Sexual Education team is busy with in-class sessions in junior and senior high schools, and our educators are connecting with and supporting Gay Straight Alliances in schools across our city.

But that's not all.

Our Training Centre is also revving up for a busy fall session, inviting professionals and service providers to head Back to School.

We have the following upcoming workshops scheduled for this fall:


1. Creating a Culture of Respect for LGBT Individuals
In this workshop participants explore the reality of heterosexism in society and its impact on client service delivery models and practices. Myths, language and definitions are clarified and strategies to create safe and supportive environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender clients and coworkers are practiced.

When:   Thur, Oct 11, 2012 (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Where:   Calgary Sexual Health Centre, #304, 301-14 St NE
Fee:   $50.00 per person, including workshop materials


2. Taking Sexy Back: Helping Clients Reclaim Healthy Sexuality
Unfortunately, many people have experienced sex and sexuality in a negative way, through harmful cultural messages or abuse. In this workshop, you will examine the impact of trauma on the sexual response cycle and explore a framework for healthy sex.

As well, you will learn strategies and tools to help clients reframe sex and sexuality and experience sexual well being.

When:   Fri, Nov 23, 2012 (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Where:   Calgary Sexual Health Centre, #304, 301-14 St NE
Fee:   $50.00 per person, including workshop materials

3. Supporting Older Adults and Sexual Health
Designed for those working with older adults, you will increase your confidence and comfort talking with clients about sexuality.

Receive practical suggestions, tips and resources to start talking about sexual health and advocating for sexual wellbeing with your older adult clients.

When:   Wed, Dec 5, 2012 (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Where:   Calgary Sexual Health Centre, #304, 301-14 St NE
Fee:   $50.00 per person, including workshop materials


To register for any of these workshops:
Contact Valerie Barr at 403.283.5580 ext. 317 or vbarr@calgarysexualhealth.ca.

Please note:  Level 'A' Alberta Social Work Continuing Education Credits are available for attendance at these workshops via a partnership with the Calgary Counselling Centre.  General public are also welcome to attend.


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Friday, August 31, 2012

Ticket Sales Now OPEN: A Revolutionary Retrospective

Tickets are now on sale for our 40th Anniversary Gala Celebration!

To celebrate four decades of service in Calgary - and to look forward to many more - we will bring together long-time supporters and new friends for a playful and thought-provoking celebration.

With the theme of "A Revolutionary Retrospective", our guests will enjoy a playful exposé of how society's views on gender, sexual orientation and reproductive health has shifted over the past four decades, and how CSHC has responded.

The sexual revolution will be played out - and mirrored by the cocktails, music and legends of the times. Then we'll toast our future as we dance the night away at our after-party.

Our silent auction will include a far-out selection of "woodies" (wooden props we use for condom demonstrations) - custom painted by local personalities and a few celebrities that will take our guests by surprise!

(Check the article in Metro for a sneek peek!)





October 25, 2012
Belgo
501 - 8 Avenue SW
Calgary, Alberta


Tickets $75






Monday, August 27, 2012

What Colour is your Woodie?

We're 40 and fabulous! We're celebrating our 40th anniversary of serving the Calgary community with sexual and reproductive health programs and services.
 
We’ve always believed in showing our true colours – and we're inviting some surprise celebrities and local personalities to show theirs with our fun and easy creative project!


Our select group of "featured artists" will be raising their brushes to creatively paint a "woodie" - a wooden demonstration tool used by our sexuality educators to teach youth how to use a condom and practice safe sex. 


The woodies will be auctioned online and at our 40th anniversary gala celebration on October 25, 2012 in Calgary, Alberta.



Have you received a Woodie Painting Kit from us, but need help getting started?
Its easy! Here’s how:
 
 1. Prep your Woodie.
  • Use the sandpaper to prep the Woodie’s surface for painting.


2. Paint your Woodie.
  • Use the paints and brushes to personalize your Woodie. (Or use your own paint materials if you prefer.)
  • You may wish to use a finishing glaze to protect your finished art piece.


3. Return your Woodie.
  • Once your Woodie is completely dry, send your Woodie back to us with the return postage and package provided.
 
Any questions, please feel free to contact us!

Pam Krause, Executive Director
pkrause@calgarysexualhealth.ca
403-283-5580  ext 314

Friday, August 24, 2012

Calgary Gay-Straight Alliance BBQ

Join us at this pre-Pride social event!


Presented by the Calgary Gay-Straight Alliance Roundtable.

This social community meeting is for students, teachers, education staff, community members and their families who care about supporting LGBTQ youth in our school communities!


Free burgers, hot dogs and drinks will be provided.

Please bring lawn chairs, sun screen, and a positive attitude!


Wednesday, August 29th 2012

6:00 to 9:00 pm







Riley Park

10th Street and 5th Ave, just a few minutes walk from the Sunnyside C-Train station




RSVP to:

Lee Allard at 403. 283. 5580 ext. 310
lallard@calgarysexualhealth.ca


Monday, August 20, 2012

Sexual Health for Women who have sex with Women

We all deserve to be healthy - regardless of our gender or sexual orientation. In today's blog, we offer an overview of lesbian sexual health concerns and finding the right healthcare provider.

Whether you're young or old, single or have a partner, gynecological health care is important for all women. Periodic health exams may include breast exams and mammograms, pelvic exams, and other tests and screenings. If you're thinking of having a child, you may wish to talk with your healthcare provider about pre-planning for a healthy conception.


Safer Sex

Women who have sex with women can pass certain infections through sex play including:

Barriers can reduce risks.

  • Latex barriers (ie. dental dams) can reduce the risk of passing an infection during oral sex.
  • Use condoms on sex toys if they're shared between partners. Be sure to follow the cleaning instructions for each toy.
  • If you or your partner have sex with men, use protection to reduce your risk of infections and pregnancy.


Finding the right Healthcare Provider

Its important to find a healthcare provider that you feel comfortable with. Coming out is always your choice, however being open with your healthcare provider is important for receiving the best care possible. Here's some tips to help you find a lesbian-friendly healthcare provider:

  • Contact us or another local LGBT service-providing organization for referrals.
  • Check out potential providers by calling them to ask questions such as "Is your staff trained in lesbian health issues?".
  • Drop by potential providers' offices to check the atmosphere in person. Do they have LGBT friendly posters or other materials in the office? Are there any symbols that indicated its a safe space?

(Adapted from "Lesbian Health" pamphlet, Planned Parenthood)

Thursday, August 2, 2012

10 Things Guys Can Do About Birth Control

Birth control is not just a women's issue. There's lots that men can do to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.  In no particular order, here's a list of just 10 things:


  1. Bring up the subject. Talk to your partner about birth control before you have sex.
  2. Learn about different birth control methods to help you make good choices and so you can use it correctly.
  3. Use condoms. They are inexpensive, easy to use and you can get them without a prescription. And they also reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infections.
  4. Practice putting on a condom to help build your confidence in using them correctly and easily.
  5. For birth control methods other than condoms, your partner will need to visit a doctor or a clinic. Offer to go with her.
  6. Offer to pay for or share the cost of the prescriptions.
  7. Ask your partner if you can help with reminding her to use her birth control.
  8. Make a commitment that if you don't have a condom, or your partner forgets to use her birth control, don't have sex. Wait until you're protected.
  9. Talk about pregnancy, just in case. Talking about it will show you care.
  10. Talk to other guys to share what you know and remind them that by taking responsibility for using birth control, they are showing their partners that they care.


If birth control is a shared responsibility, you'll both benefit!  For more info about your birth control options, please contact us at 403-283-5580 or generalmail@calgarysexualhealth.ca.


(Adapted from "Birth Control: Ten Things a Man Can Do" pamphlet, Journeyworks Publishing)