I hope this greeting finds you doing well and enjoying the blessings of life!  I am once again helping to raise funds for the AIDS Coalition of Southern New Jersey, the agency for which I am proud to have served as the Chief Financial Officer for almost 6 years.  WOW - time sure flies!

 

As most of you know, I have dedicated the majority of my life to helping others through a career in the nonprofit sector - 20 years and counting!   Coming from western PA, where HIV/AIDS was a disease that appeared to barely exist, the impact in South Jersey is one that cannot be ignored. Last year alone, we assisted over 1,100 individuals who are battling the DAILY fight against this deadly disease.

 

Through the services at ACSNJ, those with HIV/AIDS can receive a myriad of support whether they are recently diagnosed or battling the final stages of the disease. These services include, but are not limited to medical case management, support groups, transportation, food bank, employment assistance and legal services. 

 

Unfortunately, the need for many of these services still exists as a result of the ongoing stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. Although now perceived by many as a chronic disease, it is still a terminal illness – resulting in a limited life expectancy and many medical challenges as a result of a compromised immune system. Many of the individuals we serve, who have HIV/AIDS, are also suffering from diabetes, cancer, heart disease, etc. as their body is battling this illness.

 

Twenty plus years after the first diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, there is still significant fear of being around someone who has the disease and great uncertainty as to how it can be contracted – not through a hug, hand shake, kiss, etc.   I have seen many of the faces of AIDS during my nearly six years of employment with the agency and they look no different than that of a neighbor, brother, sister, uncle, friend, etc. and they need and deserve no less than friendship and support for the challenges they are encountering.

 

It is for all these reasons that I come to you for help. To continue our mission, it is imperative that we receive support from the community – our friends, family, churches, other businesses, etc.   To that, I ask you to join me in our efforts to raise funds through our next event – AIDS Walk South Jersey 2009.    On Saturday, September, 26, 2009 I will be walking 3.8 miles (PRAY I make it!) to show my support of ACSNJ and I need your help! There are many ways to support me, so please consider the way that is right for you..............

 

· Make a donation! Yes, every donation helps. I have set a personal goal to raise $1,000.00 and your donation will put me closer to this goal. Plus, every donation is tax deductible and donating on this website is completely secure.

 

· Join Team "Money Moguls"! I welcome support from all of my friends, family and co-workers. If you would like to help raise funds and awareness for ACSNJ too, please let me know, it would be great to have you as part of my team to join the walk on Walk day - raise money to support our efforts as a member of the team and come on out for the walk. You can even create your own online fundraising page to link to mine. Give me a call if you are interested.

 

Thank you for taking the time to help support AIDS Walk South Jersey. The world has lost so many incredible people to this disease. As we all face the economic challenges, we at ACSNJ face the same, but we have 1,100 + people who look to us for help. Help, that is even more critical during the current economy. Won’t you please join me in the fight against this deadly disease? 

 

I am doing my part to make a difference.  Will you please join me?  Feel free to give me a call at 856-933-9500, ext. 207, via cell at 856-371-3934 or email me at colleen_brooks@acsnj.org if you have any questions.

 

Thanks for your support and remember,

TOGETHER we can make a difference!  Every dollar helps to do just that!

 

......Colleen