World AIDS day is Friday 1st December and the New Zealand AIDS Foundation needs Red Ribbon collectors out on the streets, reminding New Zealanders that HIV is here and we can't let it continue ripping through our communities anymore. Larry Jenkins, the NZAF's Events and Membership Co-ordinator, tells GayNZ.com he's “calling all those who are shocked by the raging increase in new HIV infections. We need your outrage! “Volunteers have always been the backbone of our response to HIV and AIDS,” continues Jenkins. “We're now calling on all those who are pissed off that too many are unaware and not taking care of themselves or their sexual partners. As Larry Kramer said – Where is the OUTRAGE?” Rattling buckets to collect for NZAF's Wellness Fund (grants for those living with HIV) is a key way to raise awareness that HIV is a bigger issue than ever before, says Jenkins. “We need collectors, drivers, red ribbon makers, people prepared to give an hour afterwards to count, even to send text messages to encourage those on the streets to keep up the good work. As a small thank you we can offer discounted Queen of the Whole Universe tickets that evening at The Edge.” If you're interested in shaking a bucket to help shake complacency, contact Larry Jenkins by ringing 09 300 6965 or emailing larry.jenkins@nzaf.org.nz. Ref: NZAF (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Friday, 3rd November 2006 - 12:00pm