Last week's 'pop-up' fundraiser for the 2012 HIV+ Men's Retreat raised $548, less than had been hoped for but still a "useful amount." Following a decision by HIV drug manufacturer Glaxo Smith Kline not to provide their usual annual funding contribution to the educational and social event a fundraiser evening of cocktails, canapes and entertaiment was quickly arranged. But a number of factors conspired against it, says Body Positive, the organisation behind the retreat. "We raised $248 from donations and the guys from Urge bar generously donated $300," says BP General Manager Bruce Kilmister. David Henderson from Body Positive provided the food. "But Wednesday night was a really, really wet night," says Kilmister, "and it was fairly hastily promoted over just a few days. If we do it again we will promote it more." Kilmister says the main elements of the national Retreat, which brings together men battling HIV for group support and education, are separately funded "but it's nice to be able to provide a few extra treats and some atmosphere to add light-hearted moments to what can be a fairly serious gathering."
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 27th February 2012 - 8:22pm