Support efforts to end HIV by going red this World AIDS Day and getting involved with ACON’s Red Ribbon Appeal. Host a fundraiser to power initiatives that prevent new HIV transmissions, tackle HIV stigma and support people living with HIV in NSW.
The Red Ribbon Appeal is an annual fundraising initiative by ACON, NSW’s leading HIV health organisation, aimed at supporting community-driven efforts in HIV prevention, education, care and support. The campaign runs throughout November, leading up to World AIDS Day on 1 December.
Whether it’s a morning tea, a dinner with friends, a bake sale, trivia night, film screening, getting everyone to wear – there are plenty of ways to get involved! Bring together colleagues, friends or teammates for an important cause.
“Every year, we face more demand for our HIV prevention work than we are able to support. Funds raised from the Red Ribbon Appeal helps us reach more people who need to know that ending HIV is possible,” said Michael Woodhouse, ACON CEO.
“We have the tools we need to prevent new HIV transmissions. Our work, in partnership with the health system, has seen tens of thousands of people protect their health easily and safely. But not everyone is getting the message. Support from the Red Ribbon Appeal will help us reach more people with the information and resources they need to lead healthy lives.”
World AIDS Day offers LGBTQ+ communities and the broader public a chance to educate themselves about HIV, reflect on the progress made in treatment and prevention, honour those who have lost their lives to the virus, and show solidarity with people living with HIV.
“As a community, we’ve made significant strides in NSW, but there is still work to be done,” adds Woodhouse. “Thanks to progress in HIV prevention and treatment, we’re moving closer to virtually eliminating HIV transmission. This will require everyone to test regularly, start treatment early, and work to eradicate stigma.”
“We know that stigma remains a persistent issue with outdated attitudes still pervasive in our society. Stigma deeply affects those living with HIV and discourages others from getting tested or seeking necessary health support.”
“This is why the Red Ribbon Appeal support is vital as it helps us fund programs and services run by, and for, our communities,” said Mr Woodhouse.
Every year, a greater number of organisations and people across NSW get involved with the Red Ribbon Appeal by hosting events, activities or fundraisers in their local communities or at their workplaces.
The Red Ribbon Appeal website offers a variety of resources and tools to ensure your event is a success. A range of merchandise is also available to purchase online, including Red Ribbon business packs. Additionally, people can participate in World AIDS Day virtually by engaging with ACON’s Virtual Red Ribbon Wall or donating directly online.
“Together, we can tackle HIV stigma, prevent new transmissions, and offer vital support to those living with HIV,” said Mr Woodhouse.
ACON’s Red Ribbon Appeal runs throughout November. World AIDS Day is on Sunday 1 December 2024. For more information, visit: www.redribbonappeal.org.au for details.