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Press Releases Posts

2017 HIV and Aging Conference

by Desert AIDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Event Contact: JP Allen
Desert AIDS Project
(760) 898-0133
[email protected]

D.A.P. Contact: Tom Tarr
(760) 656-8464 direct
[email protected]

SAVE THE DATE: September 15, 2017
Local Organizations Present “Aging Positively”
A Free Conference Focusing On Seniors with HIV
on National HIV/AIDS & Aging Awareness Day

PALM SPRINGS, CA (August 21, 2017) – On Friday, September 15th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Mizell Senior Center. The day is also National HIV/AIDS & Aging Awareness Day.

The eight organizations are: Desert AIDS Project, The Clinton Foundation, Let’s Kick ASS, The Cathedral City Senior Center, The Joslyn Senior Center, The LGBT Community Center of the Desert, Jewish Family Service of the Desert and Mizell Senior Center.

“D.A.P. is proud and excited to collaborate with these dedicated organizations that provide comprehensive services to Coachella Valley’s aging population living with HIV/AIDS,” said Bruce Weiss, Director of Community Health at Desert AIDS Project. “We want to thank each of the conference speakers, committee members and the Mizell Senior Center who donated their time and effort to make this conference free of cost and open to everyone.” Weiss will serve as host and moderator for the event.

According to the Riverside County Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS, 2015 report: 28.8 percent of all people living with HIV in the Coachella Valley are 60 or older. From 2006 through 2015 over half of all HIV cases diagnosed in the Coachella Valley are among adults 45 years old or older. The average age of persons living with HIV in the Coachella Valley is 52.1 years, compared to 40.2 in the rest of the county.

The conference features four noted speakers who will each present a 20 minute program followed by a 10 minute Q&A. At noon a complimentary lunch will be served to all attendees.

“HIV and Aging: Risks and Resiliencies” presented by Jill Gover, Ph.D. Jill Gover is the Director of The Scott Hines Mental Health Clinic at The Center. She is a clinical psychologist, specializing in addiction, anxiety, depression, aging, and LGBT issues.

“Isolation of Older Americans” presented by Woody Bloch. Woody Bloch is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the Clinical Director at Jewish Family Service of the Desert. He also continues to provide counseling to children, adolescents, their families and adults and has done so for the last eleven years. Joining him is Judy Monetathchi, who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Geriatric Case Manager at Jewish Family Service of the Desert. She currently counsels individuals and families, facilitates a women’s group on Healthy Relationships, and works with seniors on finding solutions to various needs they may have.

“Sexual Health and How to Talk to Your Provider” presented by Tulika Singh, MD., along with Eric Jannke, local HIV advocate. Dr. Singh is a Board Certified HIV Specialist, and an Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine Physician, working in HIV care since 2009. Prior to joining the Desert AIDS Project, she worked as a Primary Care and Infectious Disease Specialist at North Ottawa Community Hospital in Grand Haven, Michigan. Joining Dr. Singh on stage is Eric Jannke. He is an HIV advocate and serves in the leadership of Let’s Kick ASS (AIDS Survivor Syndrome) Palm Springs. He’s also a client volunteer for Desert AIDS Project.

“The Transition from Private Insurance to Medicare” presented by Roger Townsend. Roger Townsend, MD is a retired physician who has been a practicing anesthesiologist at the regional trauma center in Mission Viejo, CA. He retired to the Coachella Valley and has been a volunteer registered Medicare Counselor with HICAP for several years. Currently, Dr. Townsend regularly sees HICAP clients at the Palm Springs LGBT Center.

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering D.A.P. TotalCare – 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.

Revivals Stores Announce CV Art Scene Co …

by Desert AIDS

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

Revivals Stores Announce CV Art Scene Collaboration

PS You Make It DIY Fashion Event August 19 at Palm Springs Fan Club

PALM SPRINGS, CA (August 14, 2017) – Revivals Stores and Sarah Scheideman — founder and executive director of The Coachella Valley Art Scene have partnered with Fashion Stylist Patrick Michael Lopaze to create a new POP-UP Event at Palm Springs Fan Club on Saturday, August 19. Palm Springs Fan Club is located next to ARRIVE Hotel in Palm Springs, CA.

Watch the promo video for PS You Make It

The DIY Fashion event will feature curated racks of denim, t-shirts and accessories selected by Patrick Michael Lopaze from Revivals Stores for the PS You Make It event. The stylist will be on hand to show attendees new ways to wear recycled fashion accessories. He currently appears in a Style Revival video series about creating your own style from found fashion — “Everything NEW is OLD again.”

Watch Patrick Michael Lopaze talk about PS You Make It

Guests of the event will be able to purchase t-shirts, accessories, or denim and customize them at the Coachella Valley Art Scene’s DIY table to apply their personal style. Proceeds will benefit Desert AIDS Project’s PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support Program).

The event will also feature an artist talk with Muralist and Illustrator, Sofia Enriquez. The Indio native will present her capsule collection of hand-painted garments from Revivals Stores.

Watch Sofia Enriquez talk about PS You Make It

Rafael Lopez aka DJ Alf Alpha will be spinning samples of vintage vinyl he’s collected at Revivals Stores combined with his own mix of new sounds during the event.

Watch Alf Alpha talk about his vinyl collection and PS You make It

The 21+ POP-UP event located at Palm Springs Fan Club is free and open to the public Saturday, August 19 from 1-4 PM. Palm Springs Fan Club is a cocktail lounge and event space located next to ARRIVE Hotel in Palm Springs at 1551 N Palm Canyon Drive.  Designed with a nod to the iconic wind farms just outside Palm Springs city limits, Palm Springs Fan Club is a playful and unique location for pop-ups, receptions, meetings, and weddings.

About Revivals Stores
Revivals has three locations – Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Palm Desert. The stores are largely staffed by volunteers who support our mission, which enables Revivals to make a significant financial contribution to the Desert AIDS Project.

Revivals Stores have become a destination for bargain hunters, designers, and style influencers looking for unique items and creative inspiration. Each store features the Mode at Revivals collection of new furniture, lighting, rugs, wall art and décor along with resale thrift, enabling shoppers to create their own personal space inspired by the stores Mixed-Century Modern vibe.

Revivals Stores won Best Furniture Store and Best Consignment / Resale Store in Desert Outlook Magazine’s 2017 Ultimate Pride Contest, Best Consignment / Resale Store in Desert Magazine’s 2017 Best of the Valley Contest and Best Consignment / Resale and Best Vintage Clothing Store in Palm Springs Life’s 2017 Best of the Best Contest.

Visit revivalsstores.com and desertaidsproject.org to learn more.

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Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley Rai …

by Desert AIDS

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

Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley Raises $230,000
Local Restaurants Support Desert AIDS Project

PALM SPRINGS, CA (July 12, 2017) More than sixty restaurants participated in Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley on April 27, raising $230,000 for client services at Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.). Because of the generosity of participating restaurant owners and diners, Desert AIDS Project ranks third in overall fundraising as compared to 52 other participating U.S. cities.

Leading the way locally in fundraising this year were LULU California Bistro, Spencer’s Restaurant, and Trio – raising a combined total of $55,399. Each of the top three participants have a long history of supporting Desert AIDS Project and other Coachella Valley non-profits. Five local restaurants donated 100% of their day’s proceeds to D.A.P. — Townie Bagels, 533 Viet Fusion, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge, Ristretto for Coffee Lovers, and Rooster and the Pig. Diners at Rooster and the Pig were surprised to learn the entire wait staff had chosen to also donate their tips from the evening to raise funds for client services at Desert AIDS Project.

SAVE THE DATE: The 2018 Dining Out for Life event is Thursday, April 26.

Locally, an estimated 10,000 diners ate breakfast, lunch or dinner during the annual event which also happened in cities across the United States and Canada. Residents of the Coachella Valley woke to find all three news stations broadcasting LIVE from area restaurants during the morning news. “We really can’t underestimate the impact local media coverage had on increasing funds raised this year. Watching a LIVE broadcast reminded the entire valley to ‘Make One Meal Matter’, and it did,” said Desert AIDS Project’s Chief Development Officer, Darrell Tucci.

Click here for the Dining Out for Life website

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. Generous participating restaurants in the Coachella Valley committed to contributing 33% or more of their food, beverage, and liquor gross sales to support Desert AIDS Project.

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.

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Bank of America Awards Grant to Support …

by Desert AIDS

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

Bank of America Awards Grant to Desert AIDS Project

Funding will support nutrition services.

PALM SPRINGS, CA (June 19, 2017) Bank of America awarded a grant of $20,000 that will assist Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) in preventing hunger for low-income people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). D.A.P. has formed an alliance with AAP/Food Samaritans to better serve the needs of our community, while working to minimize the duplication of services. Grant funds will be used to purchase and distribute fresh produce, healthy staples, and grocery vouchers benefitting at least 300 food-insecure PLWHA monthly, year-round.

Low-income PLWHA face serious barriers to meeting basic needs, including food and shelter, that contribute to postponing or foregoing medical care altogether, resulting in delayed access to care, negative health outcomes and escalating service costs (“Comprehensive Needs Assessment 2014, “CNA 2014” Inland Empire HIV Planning Council, “IEHPC”). Currently, the average annual household income of D.A.P. clients receiving food services is $11,892.75, well below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). At least 50% of D.A.P. clients receive Supplementary Security Income based on disability, rendering them ineligible for the CalFresh food “stamp” program. In a recent survey of PLWHA in our region, respondents identified Food Services as their most used support service, at 58.5% (CNA 2014, IEHPC). Access to nutrition produces tangible health benefits for HIV-infected clients. HIV medication regimens require wholesome nutrition to reinforce the beneficial effects of the drugs taken (“Living Well with HIV/AIDS: A Manual on Nutritional Care and Support for People Living with HIV/AIDS,” U.S.D.A., 2002). Nutritious food is a vital “co-therapy” working with medical intervention to stabilize or improve health for PLWHA such as warding off “wasting,” a severe loss of muscle tissue that may accompany HIV. D.A.P’s Nutrition Services Program helps HIV-infected clients to maintain body weight, strength, replace lost vitamins and minerals and support the efficacy of medication, thereby improving their response to treatment and reducing the risk of disease transmission and progression of HIV to AIDS.

“We recognize that expenses associated with treatment for HIV and AIDS can inhibit economic mobility and limit access to essential resources like healthy food,” said Al Arguello, Inland Empire market president, Bank of America. “We are proud to support Desert Aids Project in their work to ensure people living with HIV and AIDS never have to choose between meeting their basic needs and seeking life-saving care.”

D.A.P.’s overarching, mission-driven goal is to provide greater access to health and human services for low-income PLWHA as well as the economically disadvantaged and underserved community. Since becoming a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike in 2012 and a full FQHC in 2015, D.A.P. has expanded its operational capacity to provide primary medical care to all low-income members of the community living below 200% of FPL regardless of HIV status or the ability to pay for healthcare. The number of unduplicated patients we served grew 55% from calendar years 2015 to 2016, from 2,703 patients in 2015 to 4205 in 2016. For over 30 years, D.A.P. has endeavored to meet the evolving needs of PLWHA while protecting the health of the surrounding community by preventing new HIV infections through prevention education and outreach. In calendar year 2015-2016, D.A.P. served 2,426 low-income, racially and ethnically diverse men, women, and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS.

D.A.P.’s Nutrition Services Program, operating since 2001, has long addressed food insecurity and the nutritional needs of clients receiving HIV medications, as well as suffering from co-morbid conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. D.A.P. meets the specialized dietary needs of its clients by including recommended food choices, as well as supplementary nutritional drinks in our food distribution services. Additionally, its on-staff Registered Dietician provides D.A.P. clients suffering from the side effects of HIV medications, and/or co-morbid conditions with dietary guidance to improve health.

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. is rated a “Top 20 HIV Charity” by About.com. Visit www.desertaidsproject.org, www.thedockclinic.org, and www.gettestedcoachellavalley.org to learn more.

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D.A.P. Revises HIV Prevention Guidelines

by Desert AIDS

For Immediate Release
April 25, 2017
Contact: Tom Tarr, Director of Client Development
Tel: 760-656-8460
Email: [email protected]

Desert AIDS Project revises its prevention guidelines in light of support for new research

Desert AIDS Project joins other national HIV prevention organizations by embracing a recent policy statement of the National Association of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD). That policy titled, “Risk of Sexual Transmission of HIV from Virally Suppressed People Living with HIV” affirms the related scientific evidence and aligns prevention policy with that of many in the public health community.

“Recent research has shown that treating people with HIV and helping them maintain an undetectable viral load (less than 200 copies/ml) prevents the sexual transmission of HIV,” said Bruce Weiss, Director of Community Health at D.A.P. “The studies demonstrated no new transmissions occurred when the HIV positive partner was virally suppressed. This provides an additional prevention strategy for HIV-positive persons and their sexual partners which can also help end new HIV infections.”

In light of this new research, D.A.P. now recommends the following to prevent new HIV infections:

  • 1. Commitment to ongoing treatment for HIV – ongoing treatment for individuals with HIV is vital to the success of this prevention strategy
  • 2. Regular healthcare and viral load testing – staying healthy and regular testing is necessary for individuals utilizing this prevention strategy
  • 3. Steps need to be taken to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
    • Because of rising STI rates in the Coachella Valley, D.A.P. recommends that individuals having sex with more than one partner continue to use condoms. Condoms are the only proven strategy to help prevent new infections of STIs such as Syphilis, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia.
    • Regular STI testing is also recommended at least every three months for those having sex with multiple partners, in order to detect infections early and ensure proper treatment.

“We’re excited about the confirmation of effectiveness that the research provides and the prevention community has embraced,” said David Morris, MD, Medical Director at D.A.P. “But to be effective, it’s important that people commit to taking their medicine as directed, as well as seeing a healthcare professional for regular monitoring and care. Without this commitment, this prevention strategy becomes ineffective.”

“It is important to increase awareness of this prevention strategy,” said Karen Mark, MD, Ph.D., Chief of the Office of AIDS in the Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health. “We’ve made great strides in our efforts to prevent new HIV infections. This strategy can play a key role in ending or reducing HIV-related stigma and allow partners to select prevention methods that work best for their relationships.”

For more information about D.A.P.s policy, the NASTAD position, and related research, please visit these pages:

NASTAD Policy: Risk of Sexual Transmission of HIV from Virally Suppressed People Living with HIV
PARTNER Study: How to Interpret the Zero Transmission Results
HPTN 052: Study Summary

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.

# # #

Printable version: Desert AIDS Project Press statement Viral Suppression Prevention Strategy 04.25.2017

Local restaurants ‘Make One Meal Matte …

by Desert AIDS

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

Dining Out for Life Coachella Valley is April 27
Local restaurants ‘Make One Meal Matter’ to benefit Desert AIDS Project

PALM SPRINGS, CA, (March 30, 2017) More than 60 restaurants across the Coachella Valley will ‘Make One Meal Matter’ on April 27 when they participate in Dining Out for Life 2017 supporting Desert AIDS Project. Locally, an estimated 10,000 diners will eat breakfast, lunch or dinner during the annual event which also happens in cities across the United State and Canada.

Click here for a list of all participating restaurants

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. Generous participating restaurants in the Coachella Valley have committed to contribute 33% or more of their food, beverage, and liquor gross sales to support Desert AIDS Project on April 27.

“This is a unique opportunity for people to join the fight against HIV/AIDS. Just choose one of the participating restaurants and enjoy a meal with friends or family and enjoy a great meal. We are grateful to the restaurants that continue to support our mission and pleased to welcome many new ones this year.” said David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.).

Dining Out for Life has benefitted Desert AIDS Project for twelve years, raising $200,000 last year alone. It’s always been a popular event in the West Valley, but with the list of new participants this year, it has become a truly valley-wide event.

“The event generates community awareness of HIV / AIDS and supports Desert AIDS Projects mission to enhance health and well-being of our community.” Added Brinkman

Founded in 1984 in Palm Springs, California, as a volunteer response to the emerging AIDS crisis, Desert AIDS Project today is the largest nonprofit federally qualified health center in Palm Springs specializing in HIV care and prevention. The agency’s “Get Tested Coachella Valley” public health initiative is dedicated to ensuring that every teen and adult knows their HIV status and that those who test positive are connected to care. D.A.P. serves over 3,600 clients who reside in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties of Southern California.

“For more than 30 years, Desert AIDS Project has provided primary health care, dental, social services and nutrition to people living with HIV and AIDS. Fundraisers like Dining Out for Life help us serve the fifty new clients who walk through our doors every month” said Darrell Tucci, Chief Development Officer at Desert AIDS Project.

“Dining Out for Life is a fun event that brings our community together. Our volunteer ambassadors look forward to welcoming diners every year.   People don’t have to do anything special. We’re not asking anyone to do something out of the ordinary. We’re just asking people to ‘Make One Meal Matter’ by going out to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner with friends and family at participating restaurants.” Said George Nasci-Sinatra, Resource Development Event Manager at Desert AIDS Project.

Participating restaurants include (but are not limited to)  Townie Bagels, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge, Pho 533, Ristretto For Coffee Lovers, Spencer’s Restaurant, Trio Restaurant, Chill Bar, Alicante Spanish American Cuisine, Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Grille, LULU California Bistro, Over The Rainbow Cupcakes, Raw Remedy Organic Juice & Raw Food Bar, Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill, Sunshine Café, Zin American Bistro, Appetito Deli. Aspen Mills Bakery & Café, Bonta Restaurant & Bar, Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant, Chicken Ranch, Copley’s On Palm Canyon, Dickey’s Barbeque Pit- Palm Springs, dish Creative Cuisine, Draughtsman, Eight4Nine Restaurant, El Mirasol at Los Arboles, El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana, Escena Lounge & Grill, FARM, Firehouse Subs Palm Desert, Firehouse Subs Palm Springs, Fox & Fiddle California, Georgie’s Alibi/Azul, Guacamoles, Jake’s, JT’s Diner, Kaiser Grille Palm Desert, Kaiser Grille, Palm Springs, King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel and Swim Club, Maracas Cantina & Grill – Rancho Mirage, Maracas Mexican Cantina & Grill – Palm Springs, Pinocchio in the Desert, Purple Palm at Colony Palms Hotel, Reservoir, The Slice N.Y. Style Pizzeria Ristorante, SO•PA at L’Horizon Resort and Spa, Tipper’s Gourmet Marketplace, The Tropicale, Vicky’s of Santa Fe, Watercress Vietnamese Bistro, Blaze Pizza – Palm Desert, Blaze Pizza – Palm Springs, The Terrace at Hilton Palm Springs.

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.

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Mode at Revivals featured during Moderni …

by Desert AIDS

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

Mode at Revivals Furniture Benefits Desert AIDS Project

Collection featured during Modernism Week Events

PALM SPRINGS, CA (February 17, 2017) – Revivals Stores will celebrate its new store location in Palm Desert with a ribbon cutting by the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce on March 15 at 4 PM followed by a hosted mixer at 5 PM.  The location of the Palm Desert store is 72-885 Hwy 111 (across from Westfield Mall).

During Modernism Week, it’s assortment of new Mode at Revivals furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories, and wall décor will be featured in The Desert Sun’s booth at CAMP, Modernism Weeks Community and Meeting Place, and in the Christopher Kennedy Compound’s Resource Room. Revivals will be creating living room spaces that showcase its new furniture collections to let designers and tastemakers know that purchasing through Revivals supports Desert AIDS Project.

Christopher Kennedy competed in this year’s Dancing with the Desert Stars to benefit Desert AIDS Project and was quick to say yes to including Mode at Revivals furniture within the now iconic Modernism Week event.

Attendees of the February 11 Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards partied late into the night surrounded by three collections of Hollywood Regency style Mode at Revivals furniture which became the setting for a live concert by La Bouche at the after-party.

About Revivals Stores

The very first Revivals store was opened in 1995, in a back corner of the Desert AIDS Project office on Vella Road. Since those earliest days, the funds raised through selling donated goods at Revivals has gone back to support client services at D.A.P., while also providing a great volunteer opportunity for those who want to support the organization with their time and retail talents. It continues to be a destination for bargain hunters, designers, and style influencers looking for unique items and creative inspiration.

Today, Revivals has three locations – Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and the newest location in Palm Desert. The stores are largely volunteer-run, enabling Revivals to make a significant financial contribution to the annual budget of Desert AIDS Project. Donations of clothing, furniture, small goods, and home décor help Desert AIDS Project to provide our community with needed medical, dental, counseling, and social support services– including nutrition, housing, and much more.

Revivals Stores won ‘Best Furniture Store’ and ‘Best Consignment / Resale Store’ in Desert Outlook Magazine’s 2017 Ultimate Pride Contest and was named Best Consignment / Resale store in Desert Magazine’s 2017 Best of the Valley Contest.

Visit revivalsstores.com and desertaidsproject.org to learn more.

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Pointer Sisters and La Bouche to headlin …

by Desert AIDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Henke
[email protected]
(760) 323-2118 X117
 

Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards Gala 2017

“The Pointer Sisters and La Bouche headline entertainment”

PALM SPRINGS, CA (December 20, 2016) – Over 1,500 D.A.P. supporters will walk the red carpet at the Palm Springs Convention Center when they attend the 2017 Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards gala benefitting Desert AIDS Project on February 11.  The red carpet will be flanked by an art installation featuring the sculptures of Karen & Tony Barone and over 100 D.A.P. volunteers ready to usher the fashionable crowd into the reception or to one of the media fashion outposts near the carpet for interviews with local media and fashion celebrities.

As sculptors, Karen & Tony Barone have amassed a “big” reputation for life-size figurative and larger-than-life metal sculptures in sparkly & shiny paint colors.  The couple built a name making important the things sometimes considered ordinary.

For 23 years, the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards gala has raised millions of dollars to care for people living with HIV.  First organized by and named for famed interior designer Steve Chase – a former D.A.P. donor, volunteer, and board member – the gala is a highlight of the desert social season.  D.A.P. is proud to welcome a new major sponsor this year – Alta Verde Group and its founder Andrew Adler.

Details are emerging about the exclusive VIP pre-event presented by Patti and Jack Grundhofer with additional sponsorship from Eisenhower Medical Center. The location is the fabled Pond Estate, home to some of the valley’s most memorable fundraisers.  The property was built for Robert and Jo Pond in the late 1980s. Robert Pond co-founded the Palm Springs Air Museum and both he and his wife were active in philanthropy.  The estate features a white Spanish-style mansion and two guest houses creating a retreat compound with a total of 10 bedrooms and 19 bathrooms.

‘The Chase’, as many call the gala, has a reputation among trend setters as one of the few gala events at which attendees are encouraged to have fun and take risks with fashion.

Returning Co-Chairs Dr. Suzanne Quardt, MD, Patrick Jordan, and Dave Morgan promise the same sort of audience frenzy delivered last year by Chaka Khan, who caused the audience to jump out of their seats and join her at the front of the stage to dance while singing along with the iconic performer.  This year everyone is sure to be singing “I’m So Excited” when The Pointer Sisters headline the show!

Patrons of the gala know to pace themselves during the evening so they have energy left for its famous after-party, which will feature performances by the 90s dance duo LaBouche, DJ’s, and a series of tightly guarded surprises revealed as guests dance the night away.

Honorees of this year’s gala will include:

Humanitarian Barbara Keller who served as Steve Chase Co-Chair for seven years and continues to serve on the D.A.P. Board of Directors and Co-Chair of 100 Women annual giving program.

Eisenhower Medical Center’s President and Chief Executive Officer, G. Aubrey Serfling and its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Martin J. Massiello.

Eisenhower Medical Center is a strategic partner in achieving D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley’s goals of routinizing HIV testing and linking people diagnosed with HIV to care.

Desert AIDS Project CEO, David Brinkman, spoke recently about the February 11, 2017 gala.  “By attending the 23rd Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, you’re helping to make health happen in the Coachella Valley.  Your compassionate support empowers Desert AIDS Project to think globally and act locally.  By joining us at the Steve Chase, you join us in our commitment to 90-90-90, the bold strategy set forth by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) to end the AIDS epidemic by 2020.”

By 2020, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status.

People can carry the HIV virus for years and not know it.  The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested.  Your support enables D.A.P.’s Get Tested Coachella Valley program to provide free and confidential HIV testing at hundreds of community events and dozens of test sites – from health fairs and food banks, to Walgreens and D.A.P.’s sexual health clinic, The DOCK.

By 2020, 90% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy.

When someone with HIV is on the appropriate medications, they become 96% less infectious to others.  Thanks to attendance at the Steve Chase and other fundraising events, Desert AIDS Project ensures that newly-diagnosed HIV positive patients receive the medications they need to survive and thrive, and regular follow-ups to safeguard their well-being.  D.A.P.’s Patient Assistance Program secures critical HIV and other medications at reduced cost.

By 2020, 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression.

To suppress the virus to an undetectable level, an individual must start on medication as early as possible and stay on it for a lifetime. This can be challenging when facing other serious challenges.  That’s the driving force behind D.A.P. Total Care – the comprehensive combination of health and wellness services which are uniquely tailored to each individual – including medical, dental, mental health, social services, support groups, substance abuse counseling, and much more – all conveniently provided under one roof at D.A.P.’s Palm Springs location.

Brinkman is looking forward to thanking attendees at the 23rd Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, for sharing D.A.P.’s commitment to this bold strategy, and for becoming D.A.P.’s partner in reaching the end of the epidemic.  Funds raised at the gala will enable Desert AIDS Project’s dedicated team of medical and social service professionals to serve more than 3,600 individuals.  “This is a partnership. Together with the people who support Desert AIDS Project, we’re enhancing the health and wellness of our entire community.”

To buy tickets to the 23rd Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, go to DesertAIDSProject.org or call 760-992-0445.

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.

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Hepatitis Center of Excellence Opens at …

by Desert AIDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
David Brinkman, CEO
Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.)
Tel: 760-992-0418
Email:  [email protected]

Hepatitis Center of Excellence Opens at Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project collaborates with Desert Oasis Healthcare to make state-of-the art Hepatitis testing and treatment accessible to the community.

PALM SPRINGS, CA, (December 5, 2016) –  Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) has opened the doors today to the Hepatitis Center of Excellence – a new clinic designed to address a serious and growing need for Hepatitis care in the local community.  D.A.P. is collaborating with Desert Oasis Healthcare (DOHC) to staff the new Center with Infectious Disease Physicians and Pharmacists who specialize in Hepatitis care.

Hepatitis Center of Excellence
at Desert AIDS Project
1695 N. Sunrise Way (at Vista Chino)
Open Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 8AM-5PM
By appointment only; to make an appointment, call 760-992-0426
Patient entrance:  Through loading dock ramp on south side of building
Check-in at The DOCK reception desk

Located at D.A.P.’s main campus in Palm Springs, the new Hepatitis Center of Excellence will deliver comprehensive, state-of-the art expertise to manage, support and cure those afflicted with Hepatitis. Services will include non-invasive diagnostic testing and staging, improved access to curative treatments, and compassionate support for the many complex issues associated with a Hepatitis diagnosis.

The new Center anticipates its major emphasis will be testing and treatment of Hepatitis C (HCV), a contagious liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness that attacks the liver. Hepatitis C can lead to liver cancer, the need for liver transplants, and increased risk of death.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that every American born from 1945 through 1965 get a blood test for Hepatitis C.  Thanks to recent medical breakthroughs, Hepatitis C can now be cured with anti-viral medication(s).

The collaboration between D.A.P. and DOHC was first suggested to the administration of both organizations by Shubha Kerkar, MD, MACP.  Dr. Kerkar has served both healthcare organizations for more than 20 years and has been a lead provider of HCV care for both agencies.

“This collaboration is bringing the effective model of HCV care we’ve developed at DOHC, to the community served by D.A.P., which is an FQHC,” she explained, referring to D.A.P.’s status as a Federally Qualified Health Center.  The new Center, which will make testing and care accessible to a broader population, accepts most private insurance, Medicare and Medi-Cal.   Uninsured income-qualified patients can receive care at reduced costs.

While systematic valley-wide testing would be needed to determine HCV prevalence in the Coachella Valley, it is estimated that as many as 4,000 Coachella Valley residents currently live with chronic HCV.  Approximately 3.5 million people in the US live have HCV – with somewhere in the range of 40% to 85% unaware that they are infected.  It is estimated that 2-3% percent of the global population, or 150 million individuals, are infected with HCV.

There are parallels between the HCV and HIV epidemics, and co-infection of the two viruses is common.  Per David Brinkman, CEO of Desert AIDS Project, “The number of people in the U.S. living with HCV is about triple the number living with HIV. Approximately 20% of D.A.P.’s HIV patients are co-infected with HCV. While the symptoms of HIV can take up to 10 years to appear, a person can have Hepatitis C for many decades without symptoms,” he continued. “As with HIV, the only way to know if you have Hepatitis C is to get tested.”

One highly significant difference between the two diseases is that HCV can now be cured.  However, “If people wait until they have symptoms of HCV, it’s too late,” emphasized Dr. Kerkar.  “We’re now seeing patients in their sixties, seventies and eighties with HCV, and it seems to be just the tip of the iceberg,” she cautioned.   “Stage 4 Hepatitis C is irreversible.  We need to find people at stages zero, one, two and three.”

Although D.A.P. has provided HCV testing and treatment for many years, the new Center enables the agency to offer its patients DOHC’s state-of the-art model of Hepatitis C care, delivered by Physicians and Pharmacists who specialize in Hepatitis.  The DOHC model has been published and presented in State and Regional US forums.  Additionally, the agency’s own unique D.A.P. Total Care model — which holistically integrates case management, counseling, and other healthcare services – will help patients to maintain their Hepatitis C medication regimens.

With the opening of the new Center, DOHC will continue to operate its existing Hepatitis clinic in Palm Springs which has treated more than 200 of its members.

Hepatitis C is usually spread when blood from a person infected with the Hepatitis C virus enters the body of someone who is not infected. Today, most people become infected with the Hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the United States, Hepatitis C was also commonly spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants.

People can become infected with the Hepatitis C virus during such activities as

  • Sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs
  • Needlestick injuries in heath care setting
  • Being born to a mother who has Hepatitus C

Less commonly, a person can also get Hepatitis C virus infection through

  • Sharing personal care items that may have come in contact with another person’s blood, such as razors or toothbrushes
  • Having sexual contact with a person infected with the Hepatitis C virus

No vaccine for Hepatitis C is available. Research into the development of a vaccine is under way.

The CDC recommends that individuals talk to their doctor about being tested for Hepatitis C if any of the following are true:

  • You were born from 1945 through 1965.
  • You are a current or former injection drug user, even if you injected only one time or many years ago.
  • You were treated for a blood clotting problem before 1987.
  • You received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992.
  • You are on long-term hemodialysis treatment.
  • You have abnormal liver tests or liver disease.
  • You work in health care or public safety and were exposed to blood through a needlestick or other sharp object injury.
  • You are infected with HIV.

For more information about Hepatitis C from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, visit  http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/cfaq.htm

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.

About Desert Oasis Healthcare (DOHC)
Desert Oasis Healthcare is a healthcare organization that serves the residents of the greater Coachella Valley and surrounding desert communities of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. DOHC is not an insurance health care plan. Rather, health care plans (Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Commercial) contract with DOHC who in turn contracts with a network of over 100 Primary Care Providers, over 200 specialists, hospitals and diagnostic centers, and a continuum of health care systems. The DOHC network serves over 70,000 members/patients.

Reflective of the ever changing healthcare world, DOHC has been evolving since 1981. Desert Oasis Healthcare is a member of Heritage Provider Network (HPN), and was the first organization of HPN formed in 1981 as Desert Medical Group. In 1992, Oasis Independent Physician Association was formed and in 2006, the organizations merged to form Desert Oasis Healthcare.

DOHC continues to grow its extensive network that includes Home Health, Family Hospice Care, Palliative Care, and Accountable Care Organizations to complement the network of agencies ready to serve you.

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Syphilis Rate Rising Significantly in Co …

by Desert AIDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Bruce Weiss, Director of Community Health
Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.)
Tel:  760-323-2118 x455
Email: [email protected] 

Syphilis Rate Rising Significantly in Coachella Valley as STDs Reach All-Time High in U.S.

Desert AIDS Project urges all sexually-active individuals to protect themselves, test routinely, and seek needed treatment. Gay and bisexual men at especially high risk and should test every 3 months.

PALM SPRINGS, CA, (October 20, 2016) –  Newly-released data from the Riverside University Health System (RUHS) shows that the rate of syphilis in the Coachella Valley is rising significantly. The troubling trend mirrors a just-released report from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which shows the number of sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases has hit an all-time high nationally.

Desert AIDS Project and its sexual health clinic, The DOCK, are urging all sexually-active individuals to get tested regularly for STDs, get treatment if needed, and to use condoms to prevent the spread of infections such as syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia – particularly if having sex with multiple partners.

Syphilis rates in the Coachella Valley – as high as 192.3 per 100,000 in one zip code – are astronomically and alarmingly higher than the national rate just announced by the CDC as an unprecedented high in the United States:  7.5 per 100,000. The rise of the syphilis rate among local men is of particular local concern. According to the RUHS Public Health report Syphilis Incidence in Coachella Valley, 2015:

  • Syphilis rates more than doubled from 2013 to 2015, from 14.7 to 30.9.per 100,000.
  • Nearly 98% of all cases are among men.
  • The most impacted age group is 40 to 64.
  • In 2013 there were no cases in individuals 65+ old, however, in 2015 there were 6 cases in this age group – potentially signaling a new trend.
  • In 2015, Palm Springs and North Palm Springs continued to have the highest rates by a substantial margin.   Per 100,000 individuals, zip code 92258 had 192.3 reported cases, followed by 92264 with 167.1 cases and 92262 with 165 cases.  These three zip codes also saw large syphilis rate increases from 2013 to 2015.
  • Many Coachella Valley cities saw significant syphilis rate increases between 2013 and 2015.  Exceptions were a drop in cases and rates for Rancho Mirage, and almost all zip codes in Palm Desert, Thousand Palms, Indian Wells and La Quinta.
  • The largest number of cases and increase in rate between 2013 and 2015 were seen among individuals who identified as white, followed by those identifying as Latino/Hispanic.

Based on these findings, gay and bisexual men between 40 to 64 years old who live in Palm Springs or North Palm Springs are at particularly high risk for syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections.

According to Dr. David Morris, Chief Medical Officer for Desert AIDS Project, “The data and trends are troubling.  Syphilis sores increase the risk of spreading HIV. We also know that HIV can speed the progression of syphilis – a disease which can cause permanent physical damage.”

Fortunately, individuals can take effective steps to protect themselves from STDs and their harmful effects.  Stated Bruce Weiss, D.A.P.’s Director of Community Health: “The combination of condom use and STD testing is crucial to protecting yourself and to ending the spread of syphilis in our community.”

“Many people will have no symptoms and may not know they’re infected;” he continued.   “Syphilis symptoms can often look like other illnesses.  That’s why regular testing – every three months if you’re sexually active – is so important.”

For individuals taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication, “Remember that PrEP does not protect you from STDs, including syphilis.  Routine use of condoms is effective,” Weiss added.

According to the annual Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Report just issued by the CDC on October 19, the reported number of STD cases has reached an unprecedented high in the United States. Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are the three most commonly reported conditions.

“We have reached a decisive moment for the nation,” said Dr. Jonathan Mermin, director of CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention. “STD rates are rising, and many of the country’s systems for preventing STDs have eroded. We must mobilize, rebuild and expand services – or the human and economic burden will continue to grow.”

The CDC report stresses that an effective response to the STD epidemic requires engagement from many players.  Specifically, they advise:

  • Providers: make STD screening a standard part of medical care, especially in pregnant women. Integrate STD prevention and treatment into prenatal care and other routine visits.
  • Public: talk openly about STDs, get tested regularly, and reduce risk by using condoms or practicing mutual monogamy if sexually active.
  • Parents and providers: offer young people safe, effective ways to access needed information and services.
  • State and local health departments: continue to direct resources to people hardest hit by the STD epidemic and work with community partners to maximize their impact.

For a link to the RUHS Public Health report Syphilis Incidence in Coachella Valley, 2015, visit The DOCK website www.thedockclinic.org   

For more information from CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom.

About Desert AIDS Project

Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) is a Federally Qualified Health Center in Palm Springs, CA offering 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 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.

About The DOCK

The DOCK sexual health clinic at Desert AIDS Project provides comprehensive sexual health services, information and support. The clinic’s quick, caring, and confidential services for individuals of all gender identities include: STD testing & treatment, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and free HIV and HEP-C testing.  For more information, please visit www.TheDOCKclinic.org.