To My Donors

To all my generous and civic-minded donors I would like to say thank you. Your money goes to support AIDS care, research, and political lobbying to support the community. The ALC mission statement lays it out:

1. Raise funds to support the HIV/AIDS services of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation;
2. Increase awareness and knowledge about the services and programs offered by the benefiting organizations;
3. Increase awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS among participants, their donors and the general public;
4. Increase AIDS activism and volunteerism among the participant and donor communities, inspiring them to become ambassadors in the fight against AIDS;
5. Provide a positive, life-affirming experience for people affected and infected by HIV;
6. Contribute to an increased understanding of the disproportionate impact HIV has had on the GLBT communities in SF and LA;
7. Encourage an environment of dignity and improved quality of life for those affected by HIV and AIDS.

To that end, the charities to whom you are donating provided vital services to those who need it the most. So far this year, there have been about 3,000 new cases of HIV/AIDS reported in California. Clearly, along with services, education is required. Your donation supports educational efforts throughout the state.

First, the ride itself is well publicized and is famous for spreading the message that we must reduce infection rates. Second, both the SFAF and the LA Gay & Lesbian Center support education and outreach, including state-wide policy advocacy favoring education and prevention programs.

The best way to survive this on-going epidemic is to stay negative until there's a cure. The second best way is, if you become infected, to get the services, counseling, and medicine you need to stay healthy until there is a cure.

Your donation will save a life. I thank you.