Giving back to the community
AIDS/LifeCycle is a 545-mile ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles, dedicated to raising funds and awareness for HIV and LGBTQ+ services. This annual event not only supports life-saving services in both San Francisco and Los Angeles but also creates a powerful sense of community and remembrance. During the Final 545, I raised $5,694 through the ride, and each mile pedaled was a tribute to those we’ve lost to the fight of AIDS sand a commitment to those who still need our support. Born from the energy and people of ALC, the Love Bubble lives on beyond the ride. This journey stands as both a testament to resilience and a commitment to ensuring care and resources for everyone in our community.
Cycle for the Cause is another cornerstone of my commitment to giving back. This 276-mile ride from Boston to New York City benefits the New York City LGBT Center, supporting crucial services like HIV care, youth housing, and community programs. Riding from Boston to New York is not just a physical endeavor but a journey of solidarity, bringing attention and funding to those who rely on the Center’s vital services. This year, I’m proud to have raised $3,800 and I look forward to continuing to support The Center’s mission.
I’m also involved with Impulse SF, a local gay nonprofit, as a model for their community advocacy efforts. In that role, I’ve worked at events such as Dore Alley Fair, Folsom Street Fair, and other local gatherings, blending creativity with advocacy to support our community. The goal of this work is to create inclusive, supportive spaces where people feel safe to express themselves and connect with vital resources. Through Impulse SF, I have been able to give back in meaningful ways by advocating for sexual health, educating others, assisting with harm reduction, and supporting the vibrancy of San Francisco’s community and beyond.