AIDS Care Fund: “We aren’t done yet”
Nicole Smith
Staff Writer
Spectacular. Rewarding. Exciting. Satisfying. Epic. Over-the-top. Amazing. Fabulous. A hell of a party. These are just a few on a long list of words used to describe the Red Tie Night Gala.
The 25th annual Gala event, organized by the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund (OACF), is one of Oklahoma’s most anticipated evenings of each year.
“We throw a hell of a party. It’s fun, and lively. We have great music, we have great drinks, we have amazing food,” Graham Colton, OACF board member said. “The people look amazing. It’s a who’s-who.”
Featuring chic décor, a silent auction, a live band, and well-known personalities, the event will change its location for 2017 from downtown to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The 25th Annual Red Tie Night will be March 4, 2017.
The event will serve to honor Ms. Barbara Cooper, who founded the organization in 1991 with her late husband Jackie after the tragic loss of their son to AIDS. Dealing with this devastating disease firsthand compelled them to reach out to others living with HIV/AIDS and those vulnerable to the disease.
Although the charity has raised more than $12 million since its inception, Colton says they aren’t done yet.
“We have to do more and that’s what this event is about. We have such a long way to go with awareness that this is not over,” Colton said. “The most important to recognize is our cause. OKACF has grown into such a magnificent organization. New additions and wonderful people are taking this fight to the next level.”
Co-chair Molly Ross says she can’t wait for the party, but the event’s purpose should not be overshadowed. “It’s so much more than a fundraiser,” Ross said. “It means educating the community. It means raising awareness. It means being a part of helping to eliminate a stigma associated with this disease.”
Many can relate to the tragedy of AIDS, including co-chair Sean Olmstead.
“Years ago I had my college roommate pass away with AIDS,” Sean Olmstead said, “and I wanted to get totally involved. I have several friends living with it, several friends pass with it.”
Colton added, “We’re very proud that 100 percent of the proceeds stay right here in Oklahoma and go directly to treatment and facilitating the care that so many need in our community.”
For tickets, sponsorship, and hotel information please call (405) 348-6600 or visit www.okaidscarefund.com. Hotel accommodations are available at the Waterford Renaissance Hotel with complementary shuttle services available to and from the venue throughout the evening.
Copyright 2016 The Gayly – December 3, 2016 @ 10:20 a.m.