Chocolate galore: Satisfy your sweet tooth and commemorate World AIDS Day with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago's holiday extravaganza World of Chocolate at The Fairmont Chicago, 200 N. Columbus, on Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. This unique benefit offers delectable and imaginative chocolate creations from many of Chicago's finest chocolatiers, restaurants, caterers and hotels while raising much needed funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS. The spectacular event also will feature a 'Holiday Bazaar' complete with ornaments and holiday gifts, as well as a light buffet, open bar and several coveted raffle prizes. For more info, contact AFC at ( 312 ) 922-2322.
Scholarship gala: On Thurs., Nov. 18, the Association of Latino Men for Action will hold its Alvarado/Garcia Scholarship Benefit to honor the first recipient of the scholarship, Andrew Rodriguez. The event will take place at Coco's, 2723 W. Division. Proceeds from the event will help ALMA continue and expand its pioneering scholarship and mentorship program. Contact Emmanuel Garcia at emmanuel@emmanuelgarcia.com or call ( 773 ) 929-7688.
Money from HUD: The Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded more than $20 million to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. HUD will renew funding to 22 model programs around the nation that assist people at high risk for homelessness. The funding is part of HUD's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS ( HOPWA ) Program. Cornerstone Services, Inc., located in Will County is one of the recipients of the grant; it is being awarded $773,628.
World AIDS Day: The theme of World AIDS Day, Dec. 1, will be 'Women, Girls, HIV & AIDS—Have You Heard Me Today?' Observances will be held at Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph, 1-8 p.m. Events include a health fair, exhibits, and an awards ceremony with Rev. Jesse Jackson. For more information, call 1-800-AID-AIDS ( 243-2437 ) or visit www.aidschicago.org/community.
AFC Web site: The AIDS Foundation of Chicago has launched the AIDS Community Web site ( www.aidschicago.org/community ) . This new interactive site is a resource for anyone interested in the fight against HIV/AIDS to learn more about what's happening in the community and how to get involved.
Human rights group's anniversary: Gerber/Hart Library will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Society for Human Rights, the first 'homosexual emancipation' organization in the United States, with a special program on Sunday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m at 1127 W. Granville. The Society was founded in Chicago by Henry Gerber and incorporated by the State of Illinois on Dec. 10, 1924. Speakers will include LGBT journalist Sukie de la Croix and Gerber/Hart board president Karen Sendziak. Call ( 773 ) 381-8030.
Thanking the mayor: Having Mayor Richard M. Daley's signature as their 'gold ring,' Chicago gay activists will assemble at 11:30 a.m., Wed., Nov. 17 outside the mayor's office on the fifth floor of City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street, to present a giant 'thank you' card to him. Nov. 17 marks the six month anniversary of the implementation of equal marriage rights in the state of Massachusetts. Contact Equal Marriage NOW! at ( 773 ) 243-2576 or info@equalmarriagenow.org .
Art exhibit: Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, will host an opening reception for artist Michael Bonfiglio on Sun., Dec. 5, 4-8 p.m. Bonfiglio's exhibit, 'Mary's Christmas,' is a tribute to the artist's late mother. E-mail Gerber/Hart Library at info@gerberhart.org or call ( 773 ) 381-8030 for more information.
Women's domestic violence support group: A support group for lesbian, bisexual transgender women who are or have been fearful of their partners is starting the middle of this month. Call the Center on Halsted at ( 773 ) 472-6469, ext. 224. The 24-hour crisis line number is ( 773 ) 871-CARE.
Youth services: If your organization is looking to collaborate with youth-centered LGBT agencies that serve youth in Chicago, the Youth Service Providers Network ( YSPN ) could help you. YSPN is designed for those who between the ages of 18 and 35. A typical YSPN meeting includes networking and fundraising tips. To become a member of YSPN, e-mail the Chicago Gay Youth Center at cgycenter@hotmail.com .
