Kathy Shayna Shocket has the inside scoop on people that make a difference.
Kathy has the highlights from the black tie affair.
It was one of those memorable moments during a charity dinner that prompts thunderous applause. Following an inspiring presentation of speakers at the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS’ gala, Bob Parsons and Renee Parsons pledged $1 million. That was in addition to their prior pledge that same night that the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation would match dollar-for-dollar, other guests’ donations during the evening.
The result was emotionally inspiring, About $1.5 million was raised during the formal evening at the Phoenix Convention Center.
The giving ambiance among the 600 guests was motivated by the success of the Center and the seven HIV positive clients of the Center who courageously took to the stage and revealed their stories.
Pictured above, Phoenix’s First Lady, Nicole Stanton, a respected attorney and wife of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton co-chaired the important fundraiser with Kirk Baxter, founder of the Southwest Center. Other notables included Richard Stahl and Mark Howard and Thom Brodeur.
Cece Peniston, the well known 90’s pop queen brought the crowd to their feet. Some members of the Phoenix Theatre also performed at the event which kicked off a year-long celebration of the Center’s 25th anniversary.
Mike Sparaco received the Outstanding Philanthropist Award. Pictured above is Dr. Scott Young, Andrew Bridge, Mike Sparaco, Darin Osborne. Sue Adams was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Tom Simplot and Jack Black received Outstanding Achievement Awards, and John Musil was presented with the Community Champion Award.
The monies raised benefits programs and services provided to those impacted by or at-risk for HIV or AIDS as well as continuing to educate the community how HIV and AIDS still significantly impacts our community.
Kathy Shayna Shocket is a freelance writer and TV-field producer based in Phoenix, AZ. She's a former TV-Reporter who has also written for TIME Magazine,PEOPLE Magazine, Money Magazine, The HollywoodReporter and The New York Times. You can reach her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
