Community Story
Derrick Chandler, Housing Works Peer Advocate and Client
In the late-‘80s, Derrick Chandler was one of two places: Tompkins Square Park, where he shot drugs and slept, or Riker’s Island jail, where he was sent if he got arrested for stealing to pay for his drug habit.
Chandler nearly died of AIDS-related illnesses before he started to turn his life around. The road was often bumpy, but he credits Housing Works prevention services with giving him the tools he needed to finally get clean. “I’m still alive and here from what I learned at Housing Works,” he says, adding, “Housing Works gave me a chance to become whole again.”
Housing Works also helped him discover his gift: helping others. Chandler was so skilled at galvanizing other clients to participate in activism that our advocacy department created a special position for him, which he filled for six years. Chandler is now a peer advocate at our Harm Reduction Place, where he gives acupuncture to clients struggling with cravings for drugs. Says Chandler, “The steady stream of repeat customers proves its working.”
Make a difference
Housing Works’ programs are a true lifeline for thousands of New Yorkers. From job training to housing to recovery services, Housing Works is an accepting and healing resource.
Support Housing Works now and help us improve the lives of ALL people affected by HIV/AIDS.
