Plans are underway for an evening of dining and dancing to support local HIV and AIDS patients.

“Re-tie the Red Ribbon” is presented by The University of Toledo Medical Center’s Ryan White Program. The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Hensville in downtown Toledo.

“We are excited for the opportunity to host the event in this great new venue,” said Richard Meeker, manager of fundraising and special projects. “There will be a variety of food stations from fajitas to pasta and a cash bar. Live entertainment will be provided by Fu5ion. It’s going to be a lot of fun for a good cause.”

Funds raised at the event will support the Ann Wayson Locher Memorial Fund for HIV Care, which supports HIV care for adults and children in the Toledo area.

Ann Wayson Locher opened the first grant-funded free and anonymous HIV testing site in northwest Ohio in 1985 and was one of the key organizers for The University of Toledo’s Ryan White Program. The memorial fund was developed in her honor upon her death in 2010.

“The memorial fund provides services for HIV and AIDS patients who have needs that cannot be covered by other agencies or programs in our community,” Meeker said. “Many individuals are living on a fixed income and need a little help when emergencies arise. That’s where we come in.”

Meeker said the organization has seen an increase in the number of clients seeking assistance.

“We are grateful for the committed support of Ann’s friends and family and others who regularly donate to the memorial fund,” he said. “Unfortunately, our community’s need has outpaced what we are able to provide at this time, particularly in the area of housing, and we need to work harder to assist those who need our help the most.”

Tickets for the “Re-tie the Red Ribbon” fundraiser are $50 each. The Ryan White Program also is seeking sponsors with opportunities that range from $500 to $5,000 and include VIP tickets and recognition at the event.

For more information, call 419.383.4072 or email Richard.Meeker@utoledo.edu.

Tags: The University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC)