The 15th annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its beneficiary, the Desert AIDS Project, Feb. 21 at the Palm Springs Convention Center.
A principal honoree will be Palm Springs resident Barry Manilow.
Tickets to the black tie event, one of the largest and most prestigious charity benefits in the Coachella Valley, are available now for $425 by calling 323.2118, ext. 266.
Honorees will receive silver anniversary awards in recognition of their time, energy and commitment to the HIV/AIDS fight.
Manilow is being recognized for his contributions to the Coachella Valley and beyond. His Manilow Fund for Health and Hope is a major sponsor of AIDS Walks in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. It also has funded programs to raise money for school musical instruments, homeless youth and those afflicted with disease.
Dr. Anthony Fauci will receive the Silver Anniversary Science and Medicine Award. He is the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Earlier this year, President Bush presented Fauci with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the U.S.’s highest civil award. He has helped explain how the AIDS virus destroys the body’s defenses and the mechanisms of induction of HIV expression. He also has been instrumental in developing therapy strategies.
Recipients of two other silver anniversary awards, and presenters and entertainers, are yet to be announced.
Jim Casey, president of Integrated Wealth Management, is co-chair of the ceremony with fund-raiser Barbara Keller. Integrated Wealth Management became a presenting sponsor by donating $150,000 to the event.
MORE INFORMATION: www.desertaidsproject.org and click on Steve Chase.
http://www.mydesert.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200880723027
