VANDU - Genesis, Evolun, Org Struct, Activities - 2001.pdf

A Case Study of Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU)
Prevention and Drug Treatment, Community Directions, Community Health Committee
#2, and British Columbia Association of People on Methadone.
In the past, conflicts and breaches of duty have occurred within the governing
body of VANDU. Some observers reported that these events forced VANDU into its
most introspective moments. These problems have, at times, led to the dismissal or
disciplining of board members. Evidence suggests that the organization has typically
dealt with these problems in a careful fashion consistent with principles of respect and
fairness. In some instances, individuals external to VANDU, who are deemed
trustworthy and impartial by the board, have been brought in as independent observers
of the process. Because many of these situations have been handled well, some of the
people removed from the board have maintained amiable relationships with VANDU
and have even continued to participate as non-governing members.
Operation
VANDU currently operates
out of an office on the third floor of a
heritage building on Hastings Street
near Cambie Street. While the office
is several blocks from the infamous
corner of Main and Hastings, it is
within walking distance of many
Downtown Eastside locations and is
directly across from Victory Square,
another area where the drug scene is
open and active. A staff member
usually opens the office around 9:00
a.m. and the space is generally
closed for the night sometime between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Occasionally the office is used
for evening meetings. The site has two small office spaces and a reception area with a
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