In the world of fundraisers, supporters of the Tucson Interfaith HIV/AIDS Network have created a signature annual event that has developed into a shining local tradition.
For the past two decades, Treasures for TIHAN has raised funds to help improve quality of life for more than 1,000 local people living with HIV and AIDS.
The 20th Annual Treasures for TIHAN will celebrate that milestone — and hundreds of volunteers, community faith partners and those living with HIV and AIDS, called “CarePartners,” — with An Evening Under the Stars at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Tucson Marriott University Park, 880 E. Second St.
“There are so many charity events in the fall and spring that we decided several years ago to hold our event in the early summer. Although some people go away for part of the summer, many of us stay here and Treasures provides an opportunity to have a cool summer event in our hometown,” said TIHAN Executive Director Scott Blades. “This year we went with a marina theme and we are creating the feel of walking along a boardwalk under the stars, enjoying the cool weather in a ballroom with our beautiful supporters and auction treasures sparkling on the tables.”
Jenny Hartung and Ellie Johnson are among the hundreds of volunteers facilitating the evening, which will funnel proceeds directly to care services in the community.
When she began volunteering 10 years ago, Hartung said she never could have imagined what a powerful experience volunteering with TIHAN would become for her.
“It has been such a joy to make a difference in other people’s lives,” said Hartung, 70. “At the same time, I have personally benefited from hearing their stories and getting to know so many amazing men and women. I have become much more open-minded and compassionate.”
She originally became involved when her United Methodist Church announced that TIHAN needed assistance with the Poz Cafe, which provides monthly lunch and social programs as well as “CarePackages” containing toiletries, cleaning and household supplies, and clothing and other items for those living with HIV and AIDS, many of whom live below the federal poverty level on fixed incomes.
TIHAN was a new experience for Hartung; she grew up in a small town in Colorado during a time when there was a great deal of stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, which she believes still exists in our society.
“I am a strong advocate for HIV and tell my family and friends continually about the wonderful people I have met through my volunteerism at TIHAN,” she said. “I have opened many minds and hearts to have a better and more compassionate understanding of persons living with HIV and if I can turn a few people’s opinions about HIV, it is well worth it.”
Johnson, 75, who said she is known as “Ellie TIHAN” at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, agrees it is essential to continue to combat the stigma and silence surrounding the disease.
“What better place to start than a faith community? I let everyone at my church know what I do and that we all need to reach out and help each other out and love each other, and I believe we are making progress,” she said.
Tim Haver, who has been HIV positive for 31 years, believes that dispelling misinformation and promoting awareness about the importance of HIV testing and prevention makes for a stronger community. He works hard to battle the myths that HIV is a death sentence and a disease that affects only gay men.
“They may find a cure someday, but there is not a cure today. However, there are many medications that are very effective at keeping the virus suppressed,” said Haver, who began receiving services from TIHAN in 1997 and speaks about what it is like to live with HIV and how people can get involved and make a difference. “But lots of the younger generations haven’t seen the decimation that AIDS caused in the ’80s and ’90s, and it is important to remind them of how it is acquired and how to protect themselves and what the consequences can be.”
Haver has benefited from many services, including the Living Well With HIV classes, a series that emphasizes long-term empowerment and helps to educate people on topics ranging from healthy nutrition to re-entering the workforce and taking control of their lives in order to optimize productivity and well-being.
Additionally, he said the social support provided by TIHAN has been vital to his health.
“It would be easy to sit back and isolate myself, but my friends get me out, and the Poz Cafe is a great way to socialize. The bottom line is quality of life,” Haver said. “We have such a unique city in Tucson and a unique organization in TIHAN. These volunteers don’t have to give off their time for perfect strangers, but they show so much love that it can’t help but make people feel better about themselves and our community.”
Contact freelance writer Loni Nannini at ninch2@comcast.net
