• Sexual Wellness Services

Call: (760) 323-2118
8am to 5pm Mon - Fri

Hope & Recovery Speaker Meeting

Date: September 24, 2019

Time: 1-2:30 p.m.

Location: Desert AIDS Project Library

Hear two fabulous speakers from the Coachella Valley recovery community share their experience, strength, and hope. Lunch Provided.

An open invitation to hear two fabulous speakers from the Coachella Valley recovery community. Karen G. and Benjamin S. will be sharing their experience, strength, and hope followed by a question and answer session. Lunch will be provided. For questions regarding this event, contact Bill Bruner at [email protected] or (760) 992-0446.

Aging Positively – 4th Annual HIV  …

Event Contact: JP Allen
(760) 992-0440
Desert AIDS Project
[email protected]

Press Contact: Jack Bunting
Desert AIDS Project
(760) 656-8472
[email protected]

When: Wednesday, September 18, 2019, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Joslyn Senior Center 73750 Catalina Way Palm Desert, CA 92260

Complimentary beverages, snacks and lunch provided.

Please RSVP your attendance to J.P. Allen phone: (760) 992-0440 or email: [email protected]. Please also RSVP for FREE Shuttle service from Desert AIDS Project Campus to/from Joslyn Senior Center as well as for ASL services. Thank you!

Palm Desert, CA — Aging Positively, the annual Coachella Valley conference aimed at providing practical information as well as inspiration for those aging with HIV, will explore Self-Care, Sexual Isolation, Loneliness and Medicare/Prescription Drug Coverage. And this year, the 4x Gold Medal Olympic Champion Greg Louganis will provide an uplifting and inspirational keynote address.

People with HIV are living longer lives, thanks to advancements in scientific research and medical treatments; about half of HIV positive individuals in the US are age 50 and above. This is in stark contrast to the days when Desert AIDS Project was founded (1984), when HIV was a death sentence.

Speaker line-up

  • Moderator: Brad Fuhr, California Oasis Marketing Group and Gay Desert Guide
  • Keynote: Olympic Champion Greg Louganis
  • “Own Your Future: Essential Conversations You Must Have Now” by LKAPS Social Committee Co-Chair Richard Bass and Dr. Brian De Vries, ProfessorEmeritus of Gerontology, SFSU.
  • “Sexual Isolation & Loneliness” by Jill Hingston, PhD, The LGBT Center Palm Springs
  • “Medicare & Prescription Drug Coverage” by Brian Bilhartz, Bilhartz Desert Insurance

About Greg Louganis

Greg Louganis is simply the greatest diver in history. You would be hard pressed to find a person who watched either the 1984 or 1988 Olympics who was not enthralled by the poetry that was Greg Louganis: the beauty and power of his diving captured the world. 2016 marked the 40th Anniversary of Greg’s first Olympic win- a silver medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, in platform diving, at the tender age of 16. Eight years later he became the first male diver to get double gold in springboard and platform in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, and again in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. He has earned a total of 5 Olympic medals, 5 World Championship titles and 47 national titles — more than any person in U.S. history. His records remain unbroken.

In 1988 Greg Louganis also tested positive for HIV. Coming out as a gay athlete in a time when it simply was not done, his 1995 autobiography, Breaking the Surface, spent five weeks at Number One on the New York Times bestseller list and his PGA and Emmy nominated Documentary Back on Board is receiving rave reviews nationwide and can now be seen on HBO. In 2016 General Mills announced that Greg would receive a Wheaties Box for his achievements, and that development was so significant it warranted a New York Times exclusive. He had the honor of being included in ESPN’s 2016 annual Body Issue, and in 2017 was the first openly gay Grand Marshal of The Rose Parade. In 2019, he continues to serve as Sports Director for Red Bull Cliff Diving, a division of Red Bull, one of the world’s best known brands.

The story of Greg’s life, is a story that has inspired millions, and he regularly speaks to the most significant organizations and companies in the world to share that story. Today, as a speaker, author, actor, activist, humanitarian and designer, he continues his tradition of excellence in every field he touches.

About The Aging Positively Conference

The Aging Positively Conference is conceived and sponsored by medical and service providers, researchers, community groups, and media groups from the Coachella Valley:

Borrego Health

Desert Arc

Desert AIDS Project

Desert Care Network

Desert Oasis Healthcare

Eisenhower Health

Gay Desert Guide

HIV + Aging Project – Palm Springs

Jewish Family Service of the Desert

Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs (LKAPS)

PromoHomo.TV

The DOCK

The LGBTQ Community Center (AKA The Center)

The Joslyn Center

About Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. Total Care – a combination of medical, dental, counseling, social services, support groups, alternative therapies, in-house pharmacy and lab, and other health and wellness services. D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK, offers STD testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and free HIV and HCV testing. D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley campaign, the nation’s first region-wide HIV testing and access to care initiative, was recognized by the White House for helping to bring about an AIDS-free future. D.A.P. is rated a “Top 20 HIV Charity” by About.com.

Visit www.desertaidsproject.org, www.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley 201 …

A powerful story about the impact of a community in action

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Steven Henke

[email protected]

(760)656-8401

Palm Springs, CA – Eighty-three local restaurants, bars, bakeries and coffee shops participated in Dining Out for Life on April 25 donating 33% or more of their food, beverage, and liquor gross sales to support Desert AIDS Project. Setting a record this year, fifteen participants donated 50% or more. The local event, which raised $307,000, was part of the larger Dining Out for Life program which occurs on the last Thursday of April each year.  In 2019, there were 49 Dining Out For Life events throughout North America. 2,459 restaurants participated, and with the support of 4,000 volunteers and 400,000 diners, more than $4 million was raised to support local HIV services.

Harold Matzner donated 100% of Spencer’s gross revenue in honor of his friend, Barbara Keller who championed the mission of DAP and for whom DAP’s main building will be renamed ‘The Barbara Keller LOVE Building’.  Matzner’s restaurant was the top fundraising location in North America for the second year in a row joined by Lulu California Bistro and Trio Restaurant as the top three fundraising locations.  Jointly, the three locations raised over $74,000.

Locally, the event generates great community pride of place.  Greater Palm Springs raised more funds than cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and San Francisco.   “This is a powerful story about the impact of generous restaurants and our local community.” Said Desert AIDS Project’s Chief Development Officer, Darrel Tucci who credits the generosity of Great Palm Springs business owners for raising a record amount this year for client services at Desert AIDS Project (DAP).  “Palm Springs is the smallest participating market, but because of their commitment to DAP, we were second in overall fundraising again this year.  No other market can boast the level of commitment shown in Greater Palm Springs.”

Beyond fundraising to support DAP’s clients and services, the event generates community awareness of HIV/AIDS and supports Desert AIDS Project’s mission to enhance health and well-being of its community. Desert AIDS Project provides compassionate care for 6,500 patients and clients.  Desert AIDS Project’s goal and specialty is helping people achieve overall health. DAP is in the midst of a capital campaign, D.A.P. Vision 2020, which when fully funded, will enable it to double the number of patients and clients served.  Desert AIDS Project CEO, David Brinkman explains why the expansion is so important.  “There are 27,000 transgender individuals in our service area that need culturally competent care.  40,000 low income residents near DAP are still without healthcare and our neighbors facing a mental health crisis often wait weeks or months for an appointment.  Treatment for addiction, is often out of reach and affordable housing is almost non-existent in Palm Springs.  The future of DAP is humanitarian, moving individuals into care and onward toward a life of wellness.

Brinkman reflected on the impact of Dining Out for Life Greater Palm Springs. “Few other events bring DAP closer to our tap root of community action. DAP was founded on unconditional love and guided by community members who defined and funded solutions to help those in need. I hope the community shares our great sense of pride in being home to the top three fundraising restaurants in North America for the third year in a row.”  Over 10,000 residents ‘made one meal matter’ at participating locations throughout the day sporting their ‘I Dined’ badges of honor. 

Sponsors of Dining Out for Life Greater Palm Springs included Sysco Riverside, Nonstop Wellness, NBC Palm Springs, The Desert Sun, CV Independent, Standard Magazine, Gay Desert Guide.  The date for Dining Out for Life Greater Palm Springs 2020 is Thursday, April 26.

Dining Out for Life Greater Palm Springs

Donated 100%

Donated 69%

Donated 60%

Donated 50%

Donated 33%

About Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. Total Care – a combination of medical, dental, counseling, social services, support groups, alternative therapies, in-house pharmacy and lab, and other health and wellness services.  D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK, offers STD testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and HIV and HCV testing. D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley campaign, the nation’s first region-wide free HIV testing and access to care initiative, was recognized by the White House for helping to bring about an AIDS-free future.  D.A.P. has earned a “Four Star” rating from Charity Navigator for the sixth consecutive year – landing D.A.P. in the top 6% of nonprofits rated. The distinction recognizes that we exceed industry standards in terms of our financial health, accountability,  and transparency. Visit www.desertaidsproject.org, www.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

###

Queen of the Desert 2019

In the LGBTQ community, drag queens have a long history of saying yes to hosting, performing and fundraising – often at their own expense, and always with a firm commitment to social equality and compassionate care. 

On May 31, five drag queens will continue that tradition by competing for the title of “Queen of the Desert”, decided by a panel of local celebrities.

You won’t want to miss this year’s drag realness. This event sells out fast every year.

Remember, all proceeds benefit client services at Desert AIDS Project, so sashay your way and buy your tickets now.  This year’s lineup and judges to be announced in the coming weeks.

Doors open at 6pm for advance seating.  Show starts at 7pm.  Visit the bar and concessions beforehand.

Meet the Contestants!

Sheena Wolfe

Local girl Sheena Wolfe is 29 years old. She is single and ready to find that special someone, to hold her purse, buy her food and tell her she’s pretty. Some of Sheena’s favorite quotes are “I said what I said,”  “No I’m not mad, that’s just my face,” and “Can I get a 20 piece chicken nuggets?” Sheena has been entertaining audiences for 3 years and loves every second of it.

She is passionate about her drag, from her lip sync to her looks and is always ready to turn it out. I want to be able to inspire people to be themselves without being afraid, that no matter what people may think or say about you it’s ok to be different and weird and that things will always get better even when it doesn’t seem like it. The work that The Desert AIDS Project is doing by giving our community a place to go where we can get help, feel safe and be accepted with no judgement is beyond amazing. Being able to help raise money so that The Desert AIDS Project can continue to change lives is the reason I am doing this competition.

Sadie Ladie

Sadie Ladie was born in 1914. Wait. No! …2014 in San Francisco.  Sadie blossomed and flourished as she was inspired into her Queendom as a performer through her charitable work within the realm of the non-profit organization – The Imperial Court of San Francisco. Drag or not, Sadie has always had a kind and caring heart for the community and the world, trying to

leave a legacy of making an impact and difference in the world.  Sadie has dedicated countless hours of volunteerism in raising funds for organizations but has also mentored and guided up-and-coming drag queens to join and make a difference in OUR world.  She is honored to be a contestant tonight and will continue to make a difference here in Palm Springs.  THIS lady is committed, determined and grateful for the opportunity to serve this community as Sadie Ladie.

Angelique VaGorgeous

I am a full time drag queen, making wigs, costumes and managing the entertainment at CHILL BAR. I can turn trash into treasure. Coming from a background that was not blessed with financial stability, I would have to get crafty. I would rip apart old sleeping bags and tie them around my waist to make a gown and feel my fantasy!

The Desert AIDS Project means everything to me, and our community. It gives a safe, professional environment to get tested, regardless of having insurance; no one is ever turned away. Many of us are afraid to know the truth, but we owe it to ourselves to get tested and promote safe sex. Let’s prove everyone wrong.

 

Anya Camins

I have been a full time drag entertainer, and now produce drag shows and events at CHILL BAR with my husband Jacob/Tiffany. I’ve participated in pageants in the past and still yet to win a crown, but hopefully I will this year at Queen Of The Desert!  We’ve brought community involvement to CHILL BAR, working with organizations such as The LGBT Community Center of the Desert,

The Desert AIDS Project, Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Palm Springs Rodeo and others. Enhancing and promoting the health and well-being of our community means each and every one of us as a member of our LGBT community should take pride and responsibility in sharing our knowledge, experiences and educating whether through creating events as entertainers and producers or coming out to support these events as community members and advocates. I am excited to be a part of the The Desert AIDS Project for this honorable event.

Kourtanay Caliente

I’ve been doing drag for a little over 10 years. I’ve met such amazing and talented people. I’ve gone from looking like a rugby player wearing a dress to a true “Lady of The Stage.” I truly want to educate people on how amazingly similar our lives are. I want LGBTQIA+ people to feel safe in their everyday lives and educate our allies in helping protect the bonds we’ve created not only as allies but as human beings.

I want to stamp LOVE and UNITY within our own community. The Desert AIDS Project means creating a sense of sanity in a situation of chaos. It means being selfless, kind, and offering a helping heart.

Steve Chase Star Dedication February 8 P …

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Henke
[email protected]
(760) 656-8401

PALM SPRINGS, CA (January 16, 2019) –Designer and humanitarian Steve Chase will receive the 427th star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars on February 8.  The dedication ceremony will take place at 4:30PM at the steps of the Palm Springs Art Museum.  Three of the valleys most notable non-profit organizations will come together to honor Chase for the impact his support made locally.  David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project, Allen Monroe, CEO of The Living Desert, and Katherine Hough, Chief Curator at the Palm Springs Art Museum will each pay tribute to a man who impacted the work of their organizations.

Board Chair of Desert AIDS Project, Steve Kaufer, was a personal friend of Steve Chase and remembers Chase’s commitment to serving people living with HIV/AIDS.  “D.A.P. started in 1984, and we had a small office, and then we moved to a facility on Vella Road in Palm Springs—but it was an industrial building,” Kaufer said. “I don’t know what it had been used for before we moved in, but it was pretty rough around the edges, and Steve became involved. He used his talents and his firm, and he also leaned on a lot of his vendors to donate services and products that could be used in his work at the D.A.P. to make it look pretty.”

“He felt that, just because we were a charity, and we were dealing a lot of times with people who lived below the poverty level, we didn’t have to have an office that looked horrible. He wanted people who came in to have a nice environment in which to be in, to receive their care, and to work.”

In the 1980s and early 1990s, it was difficult to raise money for HIV- and AIDS-related service organizations like D.A.P., because the virus and disease such carried a huge stigma.

“It wasn’t popular to be a corporate sponsor of an AIDS program, and many people in the area of normal philanthropy didn’t look at AIDS as an area that they wanted to get involved in,” Kaufer said. “Steve recognized that, and he used his celebrity and his contacts with major stars and big people like Joan Kroc, and President and Mrs. (Gerald) Ford, to try to expand the giving that D.A.P. received from groups that we normally wouldn’t get funding from.”

Those contacts paid huge dividends, as did Chase’s personal generosity. Not only did he lend significant support to D.A.P. – he also gave major support to the organizations today known as The Living Desert and Gardens, and the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Steve Chase founded Steve Chase Associates, his Rancho Mirage interior design firm, in 1980, following a lengthy and noted affiliation with Arthur Elrod Associates of Palm Springs. An acclaimed designer, Chase was active for many years in community organizations, including the Desert AIDS Project, the Palm Springs Desert Museum, The Living Desert Reserve, and The McCallum Theatre. During his firm’s formative stages, Chase offered design, consulting, and purchasing services to the McCallum Theatre, confirming his longtime passion for the performing arts. In addition, numerous projects were undertaken at The Living Desert Reserve where Chase was a Board Member. Chase worked closely with Reserve administration, offering both design and financial support for additions including Eagle Canyon and the Meerkat Café.

Chase contributed $2.5 million to The Living Desert Reserve for construction of an administrative center and a collection of California landscape art. In addition, he gave $1.5 million and 132 works of art to the Palm Springs Desert Museum, which opened the Steve Chase Art Wing and Education Center in 1996.

Chase’s introduction to the Desert AIDS Project followed his Board work with The Design Alliance to Combat AIDS (D.A.C.A.) in Los Angeles. The impact and need for local community services was apparent early, and Chase was committed to serving the desert community following his departure from the D.A.C.A. Board. He was an annual participant in the Desert AIDS Walk and he was instrumental in bringing “Heartstrings” to the Coachella Valley in 1992. This production was followed by “A Valentine’s Gala” in 1993, when Betty Ford, Joan Kroc, and Chase were honored for their longtime compassion and personal dedication to the Desert AIDS Project and its clients. Chase introduced his friends, business associates, and clients to the Desert AIDS Project and encouraged their financial and personal involvement. This introduction led to the dedication and donation of the private residence of Joan Kroc to Desert AIDS Project, a significant donation which allowed the D.A.P. to expand and broaden its mission.

Chase’s professional honors included Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame Award, and Designer of the Year, presented to him by Designers West Magazine. The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards honors Steve Chase’s commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The Palm Springs Walk of Stars dedication serves as the beginning to a weekend of events honoring the legacy of Steve Chase.  The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards VIP party will follow the dedication inside the Palm Springs Art Museum for a guest list of donors and supporters of D.A.P.  The 25th Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards is February 9 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. 

To reserve your place at the party for the 25th Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, go to  www.stevechase25.eventbrite.com or call 760-992-0445.

This year’s awards will posthumously honor Steve Chase with Steve Chase Humanitarian Award honoring the impact 25 years of fundraising has made at Desert AIDS Project.  The evening will also honor Geoff Kors and James Williamson’s marriage to community service when they are presented with the Partners for Life Award.  Kors and Williamson have a long history of community leadership, focusing their time and resources on social and political issues as varied as LGBTQA+ rights, education, and healthcare.  Long-time supporters of Desert AIDS Project, both are members of Partners For Life.  Locally, Williamson served on the Palm Springs School Board and Kors is a member of the Palm Springs City Council.

D.A.P. Chief Development Officer, Darrell Tucci explained why this award is so important. “Few individuals have made a lasting impact in our community with the purpose and clarity of Geoff and James.”

About Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. Total Care – a combination of medical, dental, counseling, social services, support groups, alternative therapies, in-house pharmacy and lab, and other health and wellness services.  D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK, offers STD testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and HIV and HCV testing. D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley campaign, the nation’s first region-wide free HIV testing and access to care initiative, was recognized by the White House for helping to bring about an AIDS-free future.  D.A.P. has earned a “Four Star” rating from Charity Navigator for the sixth consecutive year – landing D.A.P. in the top 6% of nonprofits rated. The distinction recognizes that we exceed industry standards in terms of our financial health, accountability, and transparency. Visit www.desertaidsproject.orgwww.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

5th Annual Everyday Heroes Awards

5th Annual Everyday Heroes
November 30, 2018
Palm Springs Cultural Center

Desert AIDS Project honors local everyday heroes who’ve made an impact in our community. The annual event, now in its fifth year, features an outdoor reception, awards presentations, live entertainment and an after-party. Traditionally held on December 1, World AIDS Day, this year’s event will be held a day prior on November 30. Click here for tickets to the 5th Annual everyday Heroes Awards!

Queen of the Desert 2018 Celebrity Judge …

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Henke
[email protected]
(760) 656-8401

Queen of the Desert 2018

Celebrity Judge Lypsinka to perform

PALM SPRINGS, CA, May 15, 2018 – Ethylina Canne, winner of Best in Drag 2016, returns to host Queen of the Desert assisted by Bella da Ball as “Voice of Goddess” on  Friday, June 1 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The fun begins with cocktails at 6:00 PM and show time at 7:00 PM.  The annual event is as much a friend-raiser as fundraiser, serving as a start of summer outing for local drag fans.  Tickets start at $20 with VIP seating available.

Legendary Entertainer Lypsinka will serve as a celebrity judge and wow the sold-out audience with a very special performance.  Joining Lypsinka on the judge’s panel this year will be Joey English, Kaye Ballard, Dottie Du Boise and Maude Chapeau of Les Dames du Soleil.

2017 Queen of the Desert Vanity Halston will defend her lip-sync competition crown against Mona Statseven, Rusty Waters, Lady Vajayjay, Lola, and Xotica EroticaEach contestant will be scored on talent, evening gown, and bathing costume.  The five-person judging panel will select Queen of the Desert and Fan donations will determine the Queen of the Desert Fan Favorite award.

Last year was a sold-out crowd of 700 and raised $35,000 for Desert AIDS Project. Only 130 tickets remain for this year’s competition so fans will want to get tickets soon via Eventbrite.  Fans of the competition can get a jump-start on making their choice for Fan Favorite feel the love, by voting for  Queen of the Desert Fan Favorite 2018.  Each dollar donated counts as one vote.


Asked what we can expect from this year’s show, Host Ethylina Canne was enthusiastic.  “First and foremost, we’re at a new venue with theatre seating.  Jeffrey Drew is directing and he also directs Best in Drag.  It will be a tighter show with multi-media because of the large screen at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. It’s going to be Queen of the Desert 2.0.”

In the tradition of past special appearances, Desert AIDS Project Board Chair, Steve Kaufer, will raise funds by making his drag debut at this year’s event.

Queen of the Desert 2018 is presented by Hop Valley Brewing Co. and sponsored by Gilead, Grace Helen Spearman Foundation, Tito’s Vodka, Kimpton Rowan, and The Abbey.  Contestant sponsors include: Azul, Chill Bar, Hunter’s Toucan’s and Shamrock Escrow.

About Lypsinka
The character of Lypsinka was created by veteran New Yorker John Epperson, a native of Hazlehurst, Mississippi. On stage as Lypsinka, Epperson has written and starred in the following critically acclaimed shows: I Could Go on Lip-SynchingNow It Can Be Lip-Synched; Lypsinka! A Day In the Life (2 Drama Desk nominations); As I Lay Lip-Synching; Lypsinka Must Be Destroyed!; Lypsinka IS Harriet Craig!Lypsinka! The Boxed Set (Washington, D.C. Helen Hayes Award Outstanding Non-Resident Production; L.A. Weekly Theatre Award Best Solo Performance; Drama Desk nomination); Lypsinka! The Trilogy (2014)and a new cabaret show John Epperson: The Artist Principally Known as Lypsinka. Epperson has also starred as The Stepmother in the NYCO production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Lincoln Center; The Passion of the Crawford, a fantasia on Joan Crawford; Wallace Shawn’s Evening at the Talk House (Off-Broadway, 2017); and Once Upon A Mattress (Off-Broadway, 2015).

As a film actor, Epperson has appeared in Black Swan, Witch Hunt with Dennis Hopper, Wigstock: The MovieAngels in America, Kinsey, Vampire’s Kiss and Another Gay Movie. He was the guest curator of the Club 57 film series “You Are Now One Of Us” at the Museum of Modern Art 2017-2018. The audio recording of Wallace Shawn’s Evening at the Talk House will be available from First Look Media in 2018 with the original Off-Broadway cast. Epperson is the author of three screenplays and a teleplay. Epperson and Lypsinka are the subjects of an Emmy-winning television documentary for PBS. www.lypsinka.com

About Desert AIDS Project
Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. Total Care – a combination of medical, dental, counseling, social services, support groups, alternative therapies, in-house pharmacy and lab, and other health and wellness services.  D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK, offers STD testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and free HIV and HCV testing. D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley campaign, the nation’s first region-wide HIV testing and access to care initiative, was recognized by the White House for helping to bring about an AIDS-free future.  D.A.P. is rated a “Top 20 HIV Charity” by About.com. Visit www.desertaidsproject.orgwww.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

###

Dine Out for Life – April 26, 2018 Loc …

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Henke
[email protected]
(760) 656-8401

Dine Out for Life –  April 26, 2018
Local Restaurants Lead Fundraising in North America

PALM SPRINGS, CA (April 4, 2018)  More than 70 generous restaurants across the Coachella Valley will ‘Make One Meal Matter’ on April 26 when they participate in Dining Out for Life 2018 supporting Desert AIDS Project.  Last year’s event raised $230,000 for Desert AIDS Project making Greater Palm Springs the third largest fundraising market in 52 markets across North America.


Dining Out for Life is a national campaign held each year on the last Thursday in April throughout the United States and Canada to raise funds for AIDS Service Organizations. Greater Palm Springs is proudly home to the top three fundraising restaurants in North America.  Many new restaurants have joined the cause this year, committing to donate 33% or more of their food, beverage, and liquor gross sales to support Desert AIDS Project on April 26.

Click here for the Dining Out for Life website

“This is a unique opportunity for people to join the fight against HIV/AIDS.  Just choose one of the participating restaurants and invite your friends or family to enjoy a great meal together.  We are grateful to the restaurants that continue to support our mission and invite everyone to make one meal matter.” said David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project (DAP).

Sponsors of Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley include: Bank of America, Sysco Riverside, City of Palm Springs, The Desert Sun

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

Donating 100%
Townie – Bagels Bakery Cafe – 110% All Day
The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge – Lunch
Holiday House – Lunch
Ristretto For Coffee Lovers – All Day
Rooster and the Pig – Dinner

Donating 75%
Earnest Coffee – All Day
Spencer’s Restaurant – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Zin American Bistro – Lunch, Dinner

Donating 60%
Blackbook – All Day
Chill Bar – All Day
Tool Shed – All Day
Trio Restaurant – Lunch, Dinner

Donating 50%
533 Viet Fusion (formerly Pho 533) – Lunch, Dinner
Acqua California Bistro – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Evzin Mediterranean Cuisine – Palm Desert – Lunch, Dinner
Evzin Mediterranean Cuisine – Palm Springs – Lunch, Dinner
Jake’s – Lunch, Dinner
LULU California Bistro – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Kitchen @ Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs – Lunch, Dinner
Over The Rainbow Cupcakes – All Day
RetroRoom Lounge – Evening
Revel Public House (formerly Alicante) -All Day
Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill – Dinner
Sunshine Cafe – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vinny’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard – All Day

Donating 33%
AC3 Restaurant and Bar – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alebrije Bistro Mexcio – Lunch, Dinner
Aspen Mills Bakery & Cafe – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club – Dinner
Blaze Pizza – Palm Desert – Lunch
Blaze Pizza – Palm Springs – Lunch
Bonta Restaurant & Bar – Dinner
Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant – Dinner
Carousel Bakery – Lunch
Chicken Ranch – All Day
Copa Palm Springs – Evening
Copley’s On Palm Canyon – Dinner
Cuistot – Lunch
Dead or Alive Bar – Evening
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge – Lunch, Dinner
Elmer’s – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
El Mirasol at Los Arboles – Lunch, Dinner
El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana – Lunch, Dinner
Escena Lounge & Grill – Dinner
FARM – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Guacamoles – Lunch, Dinner
Haus of Poke – Lunch, Dinner
The Hood Bar & Pizza – Lunch, Dinner
Ice Cream & Shoppe – All Day
Juniper Table – Breakfast, Lunch
Kaiser Grille – Palm Springs – Lunch, Dinner
Kaiser Grille – Palm Desert – Lunch, Dinner
King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel and Swim Club – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Le Donne Cucina Italiana – Dinner
Maracas Cantina & Grill – Palm Springs – Lunch, Dinner
Michael Holme’s Purple Room – Dinner
Native Foods – Lunch, Dinner
Oscar’s Cafe & Bar – Lunch, Dinner
Peaks Restaurant – Top of the Tram – Dinner
Pinocchio in the Desert – Breakfast, Lunch
Purple Palm – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Reservoir – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sherman’s Deli & Bakery – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SO PA at L’Horizon Resort and Spa – Dinner
Stacy’s @ Palm Springs – All Day
Tipper’s Gourmet Marketplace – Breakfast, Lunch
Three Sixty North – Dinner
The Tropicale – Dinner
Trunks – All Day
Venezia – Dinner
Wang’s in the Desert – Dinner
Watercress Vietnamese Bistro – Lunch, Dinner

 *as of 4/20/18 

 

About Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. Total Care – a combination of medical, dental, counseling, social services, support groups, alternative therapies, in-house pharmacy and lab, and other health and wellness services.  D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK, offers STD testing and treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and HIV and HCV testing. D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley campaign, the nation’s first region-wide free HIV testing and access to care initiative, was recognized by the White House for helping to bring about an AIDS-free future.  D.A.P. has earned a “Four Star” rating from Charity Navigator for the sixth consecutive year – landing D.A.P. in the top 6% of nonprofits rated. The distinction recognizes that we exceed industry standards in terms of our financial health, accountability, and transparency. Visit www.desertaidsproject.org, www.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

###

 

At White Party 2018: HIV and HCV Tests, …

Desert AIDS Project and Riverside University Health System-Public Health want to make sure the roughly 30,000 fun seekers who descend on Palm Springs for the 2018 White Party know their HIV and Hepatitis C status during the event. And this year, vaccinations for Hepatitis A will be offered to those interested.

Starting in 2017, Hepatitis A outbreaks in San Diego, Los Angeles and Santa Cruz have left California cities struggling to contain the spread of the virus, which primarily affects the homeless, drug users, and individuals involved in high-risk sexual behavior. But since the virus can be passed by consuming contaminated food, water or ice, it is possible for people outside these groups to contract it.

“We see offering HIV and HCV testing as integral to stomping out both epidemics,” said Bruce Weiss, director of Community Health at D.A.P. “The more people know their status, the less likely they will accidentally spread either virus, and we can link them to care.”

Desert AIDS Project’s Get Tested Coachella Valley team will be on hand to conduct HIV and HCV testing and to assist those affected to find treatment, all three days of the event. Riverside University Health System-Public Health will be offering vaccinations for the Hepatitis A virus on Friday and Saturday.

“The collaboration between Public Health and D.A.P. is one example of community partners coming together to tackle some critical health issues,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Public Health. “We agree that getting tested and learning your status is empowering and a key to slowing the spread of illness.”

Please see below for the schedule of testing and vaccination information.

Friday, April 27            10:30a.m. to 6p.m.
Renaissance Hotel        Mobile Van, Valet Parking Lot
D.A.P. for HIV and HCV
Riverside University Health System-Public Health for Hep A vaccine

Friday, April 27             10p.m. to 2 a.m.
Renaissance Hotel- Pueblo Room
D.A.P. for HIV and HCV

Saturday, April 28        10a.m. to 6p.m.
Renaissance Hotel- Pueblo Room
D.A.P. for HIV and HCV
Riverside University Health System-Public Health for Hep A vaccine

Sunday, April 29           3p.m. to 6 p.m.
Inside T-Dance (next to Impulse tent)
D.A.P. for HIV and HCV

To learn more about hepatitis care at D.A.P., click here.
To learn more about STI screening at D.A.P., click here.