News

Gift for Life announced that Team Gift for Life raised nearly $48,000 during this year’s AIDS Walk New York held May 17 in Central Park. The funds contributed toward GMHC’s overall fundraising goal of $2 million, helping support critical HIV/AIDS prevention, care, advocacy, and mental health services.

This year marked a major milestone for Team Gift for Life, as the organization surpassed more than $500,000 raised cumulatively for the cause since the team was founded in 2012. More than 10,000 walkers participated in this year’s event across New York City.

The team’s fundraising total was strengthened by a $5,000 matching contribution from NY NOW, demonstrating continued support from the gift, home and lifestyle industries.

Among the team’s top fundraisers was Matt Katzenson of Fine Lines, who raised $17,250 individually.

“This milestone reflects years of dedication, compassion, and community from our industry,” said Caroline Kennedy, Team Captain for Team Gift for Life. “Every dollar raised represents people coming together to support life-changing services provided by GMHC. Reaching the $500,000 milestone is incredibly meaningful for our team, especially as we continue to honor those we have lost and support those still impacted today.”

“Our industry continues to show up in extraordinary ways,” said Kelly Bristol, Gift for Life board member and team co-captain. “To exceed our fundraising goal, surpass a cumulative half-million dollars raised, and see so many people rally together for this important cause is something we are deeply proud of. The support from NY NOW, our team members, donors, and the broader community continues to make a real difference.”

“NY NOW is proud to support Gift for Life and the important work of GMHC,” said Dorothy Belshaw, president of NY NOW. “The passion and commitment shown by Team Gift for Life each year is inspiring, and we were honored to contribute to this incredible fundraising achievement.”

Team Gift for Life/NY NOW participants this year included Caroline Kennedy, Kelly Bristol of Just Got 2 Have It!, Matthew Mathiasen of Emerald, Amy Loewenberg of Gift & Home Trade Association and Gift for Life Chair, Bill McCue, Roger Bunn of Roger Rep & Co., Sally Fisher of Vintage Home, and Matt Katzenson of Fine Lines. Contributions were also made in memory of former team member Su Hilty, whose legacy continues to inspire the team’s ongoing commitment to the cause.

To support Team Gift for Life/NY NOW and GMHC, donations can still be made at: AIDS Walk New York.