Aging and HIV Institute is a new 501(c)(3) incorporated in California (EIN 99-3783521) dedicated to advancing policies and and practices that enhance the quality and well-being of older adults living with HIV. Through collaborative networking, targeted education and comprehensive research, A&H aims to shape effective policy frameworks, increase awareness and understanding of HIV in aging populations, and support the development of innovative care and support mechanisms.

Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs is an inclusive social group seeking to reduce the stresses of AIDS Survivor Syndrome. We welcome members regardless of HIV status, race, gender, age or sexuality, believing that the individual is the best judge of the impact of HIV on their life. We organize social functions providing opportunity to develop friendships and community. We support education and advocacy to raise awareness of AIDS Survivor Syndrome, long-term survivors, and the challenges they face. LKAPS.org

The Council is mandated under provisions of the Older Americans Act and Older Californians Act to give planning and policy guidance to the Office on Aging and the Board of Supervisors and advocacy to seniors and disabled adults in Riverside County, the 4th largest county in California with over 2.1 million residents. I look forward to continuing my advocacy for people aging with HIV and our LGBTQ+ older adults. To learn more about the programs and services of the Office on Aging, go to https://rcaging.org/programs-services-overview.

The USC Lambda LGBT Alumni Association’s mission is to connect LGBTQ+ alumni to the university and each other in order to create an enriching and supportive community, award scholarships to deserving USC students and promote education and increased visibility for LGBTQ+ students and alumni.

The Mission of Mizell Center is to foster a vibrant quality of life and support the independence of Coachella Valley residents as they age. Mizell Center is a non-denominational, 501(c)3 organization that has been serving the senior community in the greater Palm Springs area since 1974. An acknowledged leader in active aging, Mizell’s multi-faceted network of programs and services is designed to encourage creativity, promote lifelong learning and sustain an active and engaged lifestyle. Most importantly, Mizell’s welcoming space offers community and kinship for seniors from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. In and for the community, Mizell Center’s social services include the largest Meals on Wheels program in the Coachella Valley and a Case Management program specifically tailored to the needs of seniors.

The national alliance of long-term survivors of HIV, collaborating with local and national HIV advocates, providers and researchers. Together, we convene and connect individuals and communities, sharing our experiences of survival and loss while honoring our past, and developing successful strategies for living and supporting one another—today and into the future. https://www.tpan.com/reunion-project

The purpose of the Equity Advisory Committee on Aging & Disability is to advise the Newsom administration on the implementation of the Master Plan for Aging and California Department of Aging on the planning and implementation of aging and disability policies, plans, programs, services, data collection, and staff development. In 2021, California became the second state to ensure HIV+ seniors are included in the definition of “greatest social need” (SB 258, HIV and Aging Act).

At-Large Representative for Riverside County providing community representation to the CA Dept of Health Office of AIDS. Create community engagement activities, HIV/STI education and resources, and provide recommendations for State action. Interim Community Co-Chair, September 2020-May 2021, HIV & Aging Committee Co-Chair June 2020-May 2021. Led efforts to inform community stakeholders about SB 258 (HIV positive designation as special aging population), statewide demonstration projects for Golden Compass program, webinars featuring speakers from academia (UC-Riverside), advocacy (NMAC), and culture (Cleve Jones).

Served as community representative to A5402 (Randomized Controlled Trial of Pramipexole versus Escitalopram to Treat Comorbid HAND and Major Depressive Disorder in HIV Infection) and A5368 (Anti-PD-1 Antibody in Participants with HBV on Suppressive Antiviral Therapy), and the new Behavioral and Social Sciences Working Group. Appointed by University Hospitals/CWRU Clinical Trials Group community advisory board. Term ended November 2022.

Appointed by the Palm Springs City Council and elected by the Trustees to serve as Treasurer in January 2019. Responsible for the investment and use of a $2 million endowment to benefit the Palm Springs Public Library. Member of five-person board that represents the public in setting policy and programs for the library. Wrote and presented annual report, led training on fidicuciary responsibility, evaluated prior seven years of annual reports, analyzed recommendations to relocate/expand library.

Led weekly and quarterly support groups for people affected by HIV/AIDS following successful training as a certified emotional support group facilitator. In charge of logistical event staff during several quarterly support group weekends. Volunteered at various fundraising events. Received 2011 Volunteer of the Year Award.

Certified HIV Testing Counselor and advocate for HIV/AIDS at events in Sacramento, San Francisco, Kansas City and Washington, DC. Represented AHF at numerous conferences for US Conference on AIDS and at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC in 2012. 2011 Volunteer of the Year, Public Health Division, 2010 Volunteer of the Year, Public Health Division.

Appointed by LA County Board of Supervisors to serve on this planning commission for Ryan White Act prevention and care services. Member of Operations and the Priorities and Planning Committees. Actively involved in the merger of the Commission (Ryan White planning council) with the former Prevention Planning Committee (CDC funded). Traveled to Sacramento and Washington DC for HIV/AIDS advocacy.

Hired in 1984 as a credit trainee and promoted to Vice President in 1992. Structured credit facilities and sold bank products and services. Drafted terms of credit agreements and amendments. Actively worked with corporate and outside counsel with regards to credit agreements. Managed relationships with clients primarily in the entertainment industry in New York and Los Angeles.