Seth Abrahamson

Spreading Holiday Cheer at PRC’s 2024 Client Winter Celebration

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

This past Wednesday, December 18th, PRC’s second annual Client Winter Celebration brought joy, excitement, and community to more than 150 clients. Held directly across the street from PRC’s Integrated Services Center at the festively decorated venue at 155 9th Street, generously donated by Rubicon Point Partners. This cherished tradition, rooted in the spirit of the AIDS Emergency Fund’s Christmas Dinner, was a heartfelt way to show appreciation for the clients we serve year-round.

The celebration started with a heartfelt recovery-themed spoken word performance by PRC’s Workforce Trainer Jeremias Vasquez, who teamed up with Communications Coordinator Kira Kutcher to keep the program lively with engaging announcements and raffle prize giveaways.

Highlights included a delicious hot lunch served by dedicated volunteers and staff, more than 70 exciting raffle prizes, and live performances that had everyone smiling. The incredibly talented Sarai Schwartz performed thier singing own songs while playing guitar and later drag performer Tongolele lit up the stage with a vibrant performance before leading an energetic and captivating client karaoke session to close the event.

PRC’s facilities team and decoration committee transformed the space with a hanging network of dazzling holiday lights and decor for an enchanting setting. The Guardsmen’s generous donation of 15 beautiful holiday trees permeated the space with the fresh scent of pine and were gifted to clients to take home at the end of the event.

This day of community was made possible by the leadership of PRC’s Chief Clinical Officer Jessica Winterrowd, the tireless efforts of our volunteers and staff, and the generous contributions of our sponsors. A heartfelt thanks to Wells Fargo and Tito’s Handmade Vodka and our in-kind donors Rubicon Point Partners, The Guardsmen, Costco, La Mediterranée Fillmore, and Starbucks.

The energy throughout the day radiated with positivity and smiles as clients, staff, and volunteers came together to celebrate the holidays and each other. Events like this remind us of the joy that can be found in simply gathering, sharing good food, and making memories filled with laughter and connection.

From all of us at PRC, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year. Here’s to many more moments of community and celebration in the year ahead!

32nd Annual Songs of the Season Recap: What a magical fundraiser

Posted on December 13, 2024December 13, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

Left to right | Kippy Marks, Kenny Nelson, Donna Sachet, Brian Kent, Brian Justin Crum, Sister Roma, Charles Jones, Leanne Borghesi, and Marta Sanders

San Francisco’s most delightful and entertaining holiday cabaret delivered unforgettable magic once again this year. Here’s a look back at the 32nd annual Songs of the Season.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, December 10 and 11, we celebrated with two incredible nights of joy, laughter, and breathtaking performances, culminating in a sold-out second evening. Produced and hosted by the incomparable Brian Kent, this beloved holiday tradition brought together a dazzling array of talent, all while supporting PRC’s life-changing services.

From Brian’s hilarious twist on “My Favorite Things” to Sister Roma’s comedic and heartfelt rendition of Twas the Night Before Christmas” and Broadway-worthy performances by The Show Broads, the evenings were packed with unforgettable moments.

Audience favorites included Kenny Nelson’s velvety smooth “Merry Christmas Baby,” Brian Justin Crum’s stunning “Defying Gravity” from Wicked, and Kippy Marks’ vibrant violin solos with his 1822 violin consort Izabella. Charles Jones brought soulful renditions of holiday classics, while Donna Sachet’s iconic cameo performance of “White Christmas” left everyone feeling the holiday spirit.

_{The Show Broads: Leanne Borghesi and Marta Sanders}

Backing these sensational acts was a top-notch band featuring Dr. Dee and Jad Bernardo on keys, Victor Serda on bass, Brian Lassiter on saxophone, and Roberta Drake on drums.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all who purchased tickets, donated, and made this event possible, including our board champion Michael Kyle, and our generous sponsors; Tito’s Handmade Vodka, The Bob A. Ross Foundation, Michelle Jester, Brio Financial, Americorp Financial Group, The Edge Bar, Mark Leno, .Philip Grasso, David Helton, Ahmad Henry, Bert Salyga, Darren Smith and Klaus Gelinsky, The San Francisco Bay Times, and Gloss Magazine Your support fuels PRC’s mission to transform lives.

Thank you to our incredible community for making the 32nd Songs of the Season a spectacular success! We can’t wait to see you next year for even more surprises and holiday cheer!

Be sure to save the date for the 2025

Tuesday and Wednesday, December 9 and 10, 2025

Happy Holidays,

PRC Team

P.S. It’s not too late to support Songs of the Season and PRC. You can still make a donation to support this important work. Together, we can ensure that more people have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Join longtime volunteer Stan in helping others

Posted on December 10, 2024December 10, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

“Volunteering with PRC has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life!“

Dear Friend,

My journey volunteering with PRC began more than 30 years ago with the grassroots efforts of the AIDS Emergency Fund (AEF), now PRC’s Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) program. Their mission was simple yet powerful: to support those in crisis with dignity and compassion.

I cherish the memories of volunteering at the annual AEF Christmas Eve Dinner. For 30 years this beloved event offered a festive meal and a sense of family to those spending what was likely their last Christmas— with us. As volunteer coordinator, it was my privilege to be part of so many people’s lives. I still hold dear the smiles and laughter as guests visited Santa Claus, a fellow volunteer who listened with kindness as people shared their heartfelt Christmas wishes, sometimes as basic as a safe home. For many, we were their chosen family during their most difficult moments.

_{AEF Christmas Dinner Volunteer Committee}

Those experiences led me to meet many great people whom I’ve deeply appreciated working with to help support others in our community. That is why I admire the work that PRC does. They’re helping people secure housing, job training, and ultimately independence. It’s incredibly rewarding knowing I’ve contributed to an organization that brings hope and smiles to so many.

As a longtime volunteer, I am proud to continue supporting PRC’s mission, including as part of the revamped Community Winter Celebration, honoring AEF’s Christmas dinner legacy of compassion and connection.

As the year ends, I invite you to join me in supporting this vital work through a year-end donation. Your gift provides relief and helps build brighter futures for those in our community.

Together, we can make sure the support is there when others need it most.

Donate Today

Thank you for being a vital part of our community.

Stan W.
PRC Volunteer Extraordinaire

Left to right | PRC Volunteer Extraordinaires Troy Brunet, Joanie Juster, and Stan Wong holding framed recognition at PRC’s 2024 Open House

A Story of Resilience: How Federico Found Hope and Stability with PRC

Posted on November 26, 2024November 27, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

Federico’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. Born in Mexico during a perilous time for LGBTQI+ individuals, Federico endured unimaginable hardships that shaped his path but never defined him. From surviving childhood abuse to fleeing his home country out of fear for his life, Federico’s journey underscores the importance of compassion, support, and the lifeline that organizations like PRC provide.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Mexico was a dangerous place for gay men, and Federico’s flamboyant personality as a child made him an even greater target. His mother, grappling with her own mental health struggles, was a single parent and able to provide necessities, but unable to give him love and affection. While she cleaned houses, Federico was left to fend for himself. This left Federico without the guidance and support he needed to navigate a dangerous environment where violence and discrimination were ever-present.

At 16, a friend helped Federico move from the countryside to Mexico City, where he found support in a home living with thirteen other gay men who looked out for each other. It was there that Federico learned about predatory practices and the risks he faced if he maintained an outward flamboyant personality. The loss of five close friends due to anti-gay hate crimes and Federico’s own near-death experience magnified the unrelenting threats he faced.

While working at a restaurant, Federico experienced a horrifying attack after ignoring a coworker’s sexual advances, leaving him severely injured. Instead of offering support, his employer convinced him to lie about the incident. After six months of recovery, Federico tried to return to his job, only to find they would have nothing to do with him.

Despite these injustices, Federico’s resilience carried him forward. In search of safety and a better future, Federico sought political asylum in the United States in 1991. His path forward was not easy. In addition to grappling with the scars of his past, Federico faced new challenges in a foreign country. He battled depression, drug addiction, discrimination, homelessness, and health issues. A case of severe pneumonia landed Federico in the hospital. It was there that doctors discovered how negligent his earlier hospital treatment was.

Federico never gave up. He searched for help and found the support he needed to become sober. That’s when Federico was referred to PRC, where he found the resources, advocacy, and support to take the next steps toward a better future.

PRC became a turning point in Federico’s life, offering a pathway to stability and opportunity. Through our legal advocacy program, he successfully navigated the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), ensuring a steady income to help him regain balance. This critical support also paved the way for Federico to achieve U.S. citizenship in 2016, a milestone that deepened his sense of security and belonging.

“The lawyers at PRC helped me so much. They worked hard to win my case quickly and having that income really helped with my depression. They have always been so human and so professional with me, thank you many times!”

With a foundation of financial stability, Federico turned to PRC’s Workforce Development program, where he gained the tools to reenter the workforce and secure meaningful employment. When he found a studio apartment with the help of Section 8 housing, PRC’s Emergency Financial Assistance covered essential move-in costs. Later, additional emergency grants helped Federico manage unexpected medical bills. PRC’s comprehensive services helped Federico continue to move forward.

“I never thought I could find peace,” Federico shared. “But PRC helped me believe in myself and gave me the support I needed to move forward.”

Today, Federico is a testament to the power of compassionate care. He volunteers with PRC and other local nonprofits to support those facing similar challenges. He emphasizes the importance of living in the moment, finding joy, and refusing to let the past dictate the future.

Federico’s story is a reminder of what is possible with the support that PRC provides. Yet, his journey is not unique. Thousands of individuals like Federico face intersecting challenges of discrimination, poverty, mental health issues, and systemic barriers. PRC is here to ensure no one walks this path alone.

Your generosity makes a difference. Will you join us in creating a brighter future?

Heartfelt thanks: Celebrating our incredible supporters

Posted on November 25, 2024November 27, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

For the past several years, I’ve been working on a gratitude practice, taking pause to express appreciation for whatever strikes me in the moment. Sometimes it’s a person, an experience, or a simple thought. Often I appreciate my family, and frequently, I appreciate PRC.

I’ve come to perceive PRC as a collection of truths that a dedicated community of people work to realize every day: We are better together. We are united in our values. The support we offer each other makes us all stronger. We serve a greater mission outside of ourselves. We are all human.

As our world evolves, I center myself on these truths. And this season, I am appreciating you, our community, for giving life to these truths. Thank you for keeping at it, doing great work, and making a difference every day.

With gratitude,

Chuan Teng,
Chief Executive Officer, PRC

A Journey of Courage, Resilience, and Gratitude: How Your Support Changed My Life

Posted on November 21, 2024November 22, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

As the year comes to a close, I find myself looking back with a heart full of gratitude. My life has transformed in ways I once thought were impossible, and it’s all thanks to people like you.

Last month, many of you joined us at PRC’s Mighty Real Fundraiser, where I had the honor of sharing my story. For those who weren’t able to attend, I want to share it here as a reminder of why your ongoing support is so vital to the work PRC does every day.

When I was sixteen, I made the brave decision to come out to my family. It was one of the most difficult decisions of my life because I knew it could mean losing them. I was given an ultimatum: deny who I was and conform to their strict beliefs or live as my true self and leave. I chose to be myself, even though it meant being on my own.

At the time, I didn’t realize how much that experience would affect me. It was hard to process the trauma, and I didn’t have the tools to deal with it. I didn’t know it at the time, but I started self-medicating, and that led to substance abuse. Before I knew it, my life was spiraling out of control.

That’s when PRC stepped in. Because of your support, there was a safety net to catch me. I found the help I needed through PRC’s mental health and substance use treatment programs. They gave me the tools to rebuild my life and rediscover hope.

Today, I am proud to say I am fully sober and free from substances. I went from working as a part-time bike messenger to becoming a coordinator in PRC’s Workforce Development program, where I now help others on their recovery journey. I’ve gained confidence, stability, and purpose, and I’m paying it forward every day.

None of this would be possible without your ongoing support. Your belief in PRC ensures that people like me feel seen, heard, and valued. It transforms despair into hope, and hope into action. It’s because of you that I am proud to give back, to pay it forward, and to help build a community where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Your generosity goes beyond financial support—it’s compassion in action—it’s life-changing. The support you give helps fund essential programs, like treatment at PRC’s home-care facilities, that give people like me a second chance.

Donate Now

As we close this year, I invite you to continue being part of this movement. Increase your support with a year-end donation today. Your contributions don’t just fund programs—they save lives, rebuild futures, and create a ripple effect of positive change.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for seeing me, believing in me, and investing in a better future for us all.

Basil Martinez

Healing Spaces Initiative: Transforming Robertson Place, One Room at a Time

Posted on November 13, 2024November 14, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

At PRC, we know that a warm and inviting environment can make a world of difference in someone’s journey toward recovery and well-being. That’s why we’re excited to continue our Healing Spaces Initiative—an ongoing, multi-phase project focused on enhancing the living spaces at our residential treatment homes to support clients as they work toward rebuilding their lives. This past Saturday, we were thrilled to complete the second phase of this project at Robertson Place with the help of eleven dedicated volunteers.

Phase One: Creating an Inviting Outdoor Retreat

The Healing Spaces journey began with the transformation of Robertson Place’s backyard. During phase one, volunteers came together to clear the overgrown outdoor area and add fresh landscaping touches. This created a peaceful outdoor retreat for residents to gather, unwind, and enjoy moments of calm. Thanks to the efforts of our volunteers, the backyard is now a welcoming space for relaxation, and reflection—an essential resource for clients navigating their healing journey.

Phase Two: Brightening the Heart of Robertson Place

For the second phase, volunteers turned their attention indoors, refreshing the kitchen and dining room with a new coat of paint. These rooms are the heart of Robertson Place, where residents often gather to share meals, stories, and moments of camaraderie. The newly lightened space adds warmth and brightness helping to make these shared areas feel truly welcoming. With this transformation, our clients can enjoy a renewed sense of comfort in a home that reflects the care and support PRC provides.

Looking Ahead: Phase Three and the Vision for Robertson Place

Our next step in the Healing Spaces Initiative will bring new life to the garage, transforming it into a recreational lounge for social and creative activities. Planned amenities for this upcoming phase include a setup for board games, art projects, table sports, and a comfortable space for movie nights. The revamped area will give clients more ways to build friendships, engage in positive activities, and enjoy a sense of community—fostering a supportive and healing environment that plays an essential role in their recovery.

Infinite Gratitude to Our Volunteers

This work would not be possible without the incredible support of our volunteers, who donate their time, energy, and compassion to help us transform Robertson Place. Every stroke of paint, every plant added to the backyard, and every detail in these spaces reflects a profound commitment to uplifting and supporting those in need. We are infinitely grateful to each volunteer for embodying the spirit of our community and for helping create healing spaces for PRC’s clients.

If you’d like to join us in our mission to provide beautiful, healing environments for those we serve, sign up at prcsf.org/volunteer/. Together, we can continue creating spaces of hope, warmth, and renewal.

Let’s Stop Slandering San Francisco’s Non-Profits

Posted on October 15, 2024October 22, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

Joint Statement from the HIV/AIDS Provider Network

In recent months, local media and some politicians have been promoting the myth that nonprofits receiving grants from the City of San Francisco are mismanaged, bloated, inefficient, and “mired in scandal.” Sadly, this myth—and it is a myth—is taking hold in the public conscience.

That’s why PRC and the other 25 member organizations of the HIV/AIDS Provider Network (HAPN) are taking the unprecedented step of reaching out to all our supporters to set the record straight.

First, we want to stress that we embrace organizational and financial transparency; we welcome oversight from our partners in the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, the Department of Health, the Department of Disability and Aging Services, the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and others; and we are proud to report exactly how we spend every single city grant dollar. We are committed to fiscal responsibility and being responsible stewards of public funds, and we resent being lumped in with a few bad actors who clearly do not share these values.

The truth is that we provide exceptional services to residents of San Francisco effectively, efficiently, and are subject to extensive city oversight. These are facts those promoting this myth choose to ignore.

Here’s what we’ve accomplished in addressing HIV/AIDS in San Franciso. Even though our city has one of the highest proportions of residents living with HIV and one of the highest percentages of residents at risk for contracting the virus, the rate of new infections among LGBTQ residents here is dramatically lower than any other major city in the nation. Three-quarters (75%) of San Franciscans with HIV have suppressed their viral loads to the point where the virus cannot be transmitted, a much, much higher percentage than every other city in the country other than Seattle. More than nine in ten of those recently diagnosed with HIV are connected to care—that’s 12 percentage points higher than anywhere else. Preventing one HIV infection avoids $229,800 in medical costs alone; our collective efforts have prevented thousands of infections.

Moreover, all of this extraordinary progress has been accomplished with exceptional efficiency, even as city support over the years has not kept up with rising costs in any way, shape, or form. Contrary to the picture portrayed in the media, we are all working on shoestring budgets, no one could even imagine renting a fancy beachfront home for a retreat or even holding a retreat that isn’t dirt cheap, and each day presents new challenges in retaining/recruiting staff due to the low salaries and meager benefits we are able to offer (they are 20-50% lower than those afforded city employees doing similar work).

Finally, even though our city grants don’t begin to cover our overhead and administrative costs, we submit tons of data to our funders—most often on a monthly basis—showing exactly how we have spent our grant dollars, including the number of clients served, the hours involved, and specific services provided. If there are any discrepancies or we fall behind on our deliverables, we don’t get paid until every cent is accounted for or we submit a detailed corrective plan for moving forward. In addition, the city agencies from which we receive funds conduct formal, exhaustive performance reviews every two to three years and almost all of us retain an outside firm to conduct an annual audit of our finances, accounting practices, and internal controls. We surely don’t need even more burdensome reporting requirements.

So, dear friend of PRC, thank you for your support of our work. We hope it makes you proud!

PRC’s Mighty Real Fundraiser – An amazing achievement!

Posted on October 10, 2024October 11, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

On Friday, October 4th, PRC’s Mighty Real fundraiser brought an unforgettable night of celebration, compassion, and community to The Pearl in San Francisco. With more than 200 attendees, the energy in the venue was electric as we embraced this year’s theme: Imagine | Inspire | Act. Thanks to our generous guests and supporters, we raised over $200,000 to support PRC’s life-changing services!

Mighty Real Fundraiser rooftop reception

The evening began on the rooftop, where guests gathered to enjoy the rare San Francisco heat, taking in the views while connecting with fellow compassionate changemakers—many dressed fabulously to reflect their “Mighty Real” selves. Our extraordinary volunteers set the stage for the event, decorating the venue, welcoming and checking in guests, and playing a key role in several fundraising activations.

One lucky guest who purchased a blinky ring raffle entry walked away with a treasure chest of luxury goods and experiences valued at over $7,500, including a signed guitar donated by our Spirits and Innovator Sponsor, Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Many others donated to our wine pull, leaving with a mystery bottle of wine for a game that blended fun and philanthropy.

The live auction was full of excitement. It offered trips to Portugal and Puerto Vallarta, a year of dining at some of San Francisco’s finest restaurants, and framed and signed Golden State Warriors championship memorabilia.

A special shout-out goes to Chevron, our largest supporter of the night, contributing an incredible $20,000 between their sponsorship and the Fund-a-Need match.

As the night moved into the main ballroom for dinner, our guests heard inspiring words from Master of Ceremonies Jon Moscone, Hostess Extraordinaire Donna Sachet, Mayor London Breed, Senator Scott Weiner, and PRC CEO Chuan Teng.

This year’s awards recognized the incredible contributions of several honorees. Steven Ames Brown received the Sylvester Community Pillar Award for his tireless efforts to ensure that Sylvester’s and other artists’ royalties continue benefitting PRC and other nonprofits. Steven has also been instrumental in representing BIPOC musicians for decades, securing the royalties they deserve.

Dr. Monica Gandhi was honored with the Vanguard Leadership Award for her pioneering contributions to HIV/AIDS medical advancements and her leadership as the Medical Director of Ward 86, one of the first dedicated HIV clinics in the U.S. Her work has been invaluable in removing stigma and providing compassionate care.

The Outstanding Corporate Partnership Award went to Marsh McLennan Agency, who has been a close partner to PRC, working alongside our People Experience team to provide staff with the best benefits. Their continued support, including securing a grant for PRC from the Barney and Barney Foundation, has been invaluable.

A particularly memorable highlight of the evening came from Basil Martinez, a former PRC client and now PRC’s Workforce Development Program Coordinator. Basil captivated the audience with his powerful story of recovery, sharing the experiences that brought him to PRC. His honest recounting of setbacks and personal transformation moved everyone in the room, showing that with the right support, positive change is not only possible—it’s something we see and support at PRC every day.

As the program wrapped up, guests hit the dance floor with tunes from DJ Adrian Loving, celebrating a night of incredible impact and opportunity for our clients.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who helped make the night such a tremendous success, including PRC Board Members and Event Chairs Michael Niczyporuk and Darren Smith, our Mighty Real Committee members Colin Hartke, Phillip Keeling, Michael Kyle, Camellia Ngo Peabody and John Peabody, Brian Schneider, and Nichole Wiley, our generous sponsors and in-kind donors, our dedicated volunteers, and all who attended. Your support continues to make a real difference for the community we serve.

Thank you for making this year’s Mighty Real a night to remember!

Presenting PRC’s 2023/24 Impact Report

Posted on September 12, 2024 by Seth Abrahamson

We are excited to present PRC’s 2023/24 Impact Report, centered around the theme of our clients’ journeys and how they Imagine, Inspire, Act.

This report highlights our unwavering commitment to supporting low-income and unhoused individuals living with HIV, mental illness, and substance use disorders. Through proven strategies and compassionate services, we continue to advocate for lasting change and improved client well-being.

This publication also represents a complete design refresh to be much more photo-and story-centric. We’d love to hear your feedback.

Our clients inspire us daily with their resilience, determination, and love for life. Their journeys remind us that change is possible. When we imagine a brighter future, we inspire one another and act with purpose. The dedication of our team, alongside the steadfast support of partners like you, drives this progress.

We invite you to explore the report and see how PRC is delivering on its mission. You’ll read the inspiring story of AJ, a former client who now works at PRC, giving back to the community that supported him. His story is just one example of how we’re making a tangible difference.

Together, we are creating a healthier, more hopeful future for all.

In community,

PRC