PRC invites you to attend the Name Affirmation Clinic in partnership with ALRP on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, 10 am – 12 pm, in person at PRC’s Integrated Service Center at 170 9th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103.
This clinic will cover the information and paperwork needed to change an individual’s name and gender in the following areas:
Through the court system (legal name changes)
Local and Government Agencies (DMV, Passport, SSA)
How to request a fee waiver for required court fees
This presentation is free and open to the public; however, advanced RSVP is required.
Seating is limited, so please be considerate when reserving a spot.
We are thrilled to share the incredible success of our recent Client Winter Celebration, where we not only had the opportunity to spread joy but were also able to give back to our clients and community.
The atmosphere at Rubicon Point Partners building, who kindly donated their space to us, was filled with festive cheer, as the space was decorated with sparkling lights installed by our amazing facilities team and 16 trees donated by the Guardsmen Christmas Tree Lot. Attendees indulged in warm cider, coffee, 400 delectable cookies donated by Danville Bakery, and mouthwatering small bites, provided by La Mediterranee Filmore.
Kippy Marks, a virtuoso on the violin, enchanted the crowd with his musical talents, creating a magical ambiance. You may remember witnessing his incredible talent at our Songs of the Season event in early December.
Tables adorned with engaging games and activities including an opportunity to make greeting cards for friends and loved ones, and a live raffle, added an extra layer of fun. Clients departed not only with PRC souvenirs, gift cards, coffee tumblers, and more but also made connections with both new and familiar faces among the dedicated PRC staff.
Undoubtedly, one of the main highlights of the event was a generous contribution—fresh groceries to support 250 households, courtesy of the SF Marin Food Bank. Each attendee left the event with a bag or several bags of groceries.
What makes this celebration even more special is the way it rippled through our community. We transformed our client celebration into a community-wide event, extending our joy and giving back to our friends and neighbors at the San Francisco Community Health Center, Episcopal Community Services, Catholic Charities, and the El Dorado. Donations of cookies and grocery bags brought smiles and warmth to even more hearts.
We were honored to provide taxi rides for our clients to and from the event to ensure they could be part of this heartwarming celebration. One of our clients summed up the impact beautifully, saying:
We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming generosity of our community, board of directors, and PRC supporters who not only attended the celebration but also contributed to its success with various donations. See the list of our generous donors below:
Sponsored by:
This was a beautiful way for us to put closure to 2023 and welcome in 2024! We invite you to join us next time!
That was the voicemail that led to my first meeting with Bob two weeks ago.
Bob Burnside, a seasoned activist, sculptor, and community builder, founded Positive Resource in 1989, which merged with AIDS Benefits Counselors (founded in 1987) to form the organization that is now PRC. At the time, people living with HIV who were healthy enough to work were looking for odd jobs or part-time gigs to keep themselves afloat. So Bob, with just a word processor, started writing down peoples’ names and matching them with small jobs he knew about in the community. Bob’s gumption from three and a half decades ago is what created PRC’s Workforce Development program, which continues to help hundreds of people find work every single year.
As I sat with Bob, I learned that he not only founded Positive Resource, but also spearheads community initiatives like the Corona Heights Community Garden and is the very talented artist behind the spinners you find hanging throughout the Castro, including the one behind Walgreens on Castro and 18th Street.
Bob told me he is still working at 80 years old as your “Castro Handyman” though he doesn’t need any new clients because he has plenty. What he wants to do in his life now is to take care of nonprofits. As he said that, he handed me a check for PRC. In that moment, I sat stunned, in awe of Bob, this giant before me.
As I have shared in the past, I feel my life is full of miracles. This meeting with Bob is one of them. Another is my meeting with George just last week at PRC’s Client Winter Celebration. George, a 70-year-old, long-term HIV survivor, told me he hadn’t worked for over ten years but he started taking classes through our Workforce Development program and now wants to work as an HIV peer counselor with PRC! In George’s words:
What a full-circle moment.
Bob, thank you for your humanity and for paving the way for George and thousands of others who preceded him. You still have an impact on our clients to this day!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday and a bright New Year.
I will never forget that fateful day 15 years ago when I was diagnosed with HIV. There was this deep shame that came with it. How could I let this happen, I wondered. How could I tell my family? I was deeply afraid of how others would react.
But you needn’t worry. My story isn’t one of despair. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of community, and the transformative impact of organizations like PRC, and supporters like you – thank you – that helped me along the way.
When I was growing up in the 80s, the media portrayed HIV as a death sentence. At that time, it was. Medical advancements since then have made it so individuals with HIV can live a long vivacious life with treatment. However, the stigma has become so deeply ingrained that newly diagnosed people frequently experience significant mental health challenges, often a result of stigma and shame. That was certainly true for me.
That shame led me to substance abuse, which I kept very private, again because of shame and because I believed I should have known better. It was an ER visit and the realization I didn’t want to let those closest to me down, that was the pivotal turning point.
I knew I couldn’t face the journey alone, so I mustered the courage to reach out to a friend in recovery for help. I took time off of work, found counseling, and began the work of healing. So many people showed up for me. I also must recognize the privilege I experienced as a white cisgender male with a family support system in the Bay Area, something most of PRC’s clients do not have. Through these supports, I found a workplace that was inclusive and saw my ability to transcend difficult life experiences as an asset. I learned over time that you don’t graduate from self-growth.
These experiences inspired me to want to help others. It’s so powerful to give back because you never know when it might actually save someone’s life.
As I rebuilt my life and a new career in HR to create the same inclusive workplaces that helped me so much, I searched for additional ways to give back. I volunteered. But I wanted to more actively participate in bringing about positive change in San Francisco, especially for those with struggles similar to mine. So earlier this year, I joined PRC’s Board of Directors.
PRC’s work resonates with me on a profound level. I have been so impressed by their continuum of services that meet people where they are:
Low-barrier Hummingbird respite centers that present a safe space for people coming right off the street and linkage to additional care;
Emergency financial assistance to preserve housing and medical care;
Legal advocacy to secure and retain stable income and health insurance;
90-day residential treatment for mental illness and substance use;
Supportive housing with individualized case management;
Workforce development to get back to work from a disability; and,
And by promoting and engaging in policy and advocacy to propel initiatives aimed at achieving health equity and fostering social justice.
Together these programs lift up more than 5,000 individuals each year to a place of greater stability and more positive health and economic outcomes.
We can’t do this work alone, however. We need donor support. As we near the end of the year, I ask that everyone reading this please consider making a year-end contribution today.
Provide lifesaving programs for those living with HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and substance use disorder;
Offer integrated legal, social, and health services that address the broad range of social risk factors that impact wellness and limit potential; and,
Help people affected by these challenges better realize opportunities and live healthier, happier lives.
I’m also happy to announce a generous $10,000 match. With your help, we can raise $15,000 by December 31st, doubling the impact of your donation.
Please give generously today by going to prcsf.org/donate, or consider giving via your donor-advised fund if you have one to help PRC to change lives like mine for the better. Thank you for your consideration.
This workshop is for people who want to learn about Immigration and Public Benefits. This presentation is in partnership with ALRP on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 10 am – 12 pm in-person.
This event is free and open to the public; however, advanced RSVP is required as there is limited seating.
This workshop is online only for people receiving SSI and/or SSDI and working or planning to return to work.
Learn about how working affects eligibility to receive disability income, how to avoid costly pitfalls, and what to do if you receive an overpayment.
This workshop is free and open to the public; however, RSVP is required by December 7, 2023, at 8:00 a.m. Please only register once to allow others to attend.
PRC is thrilled to welcome the newest member of its Board of Directors, Michael J. Kyle, a Global People Executive with extensive experience in Talent Acquisition, Performance Management, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). Based in San Francisco, Michael has a strong track record of leadership and innovation and is actively involved with numerous community organizations and advocacy initiatives. His awareness and concern about the mental health challenges that those living with HIV/AIDS face stems from Michael’s lived experience. Michael has BA in Political Science from UC Berkeley and has received various professional development certifications.
Michael is based in San Francisco and has volunteered with the Castro Country Club and participated in the AIDS Life Cycle with San Francisco AIDS Foundation five times. Previously, he served on the boards for GSA Network and LYRIC. He is committed to community service and has a deep passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it is with a full heart that I write to simply say thank you. I am filled with immense gratitude and joy as I reflect on the unwavering support we’ve received from you: our incredible community. With profound humility, I acknowledge the indispensable role you’ve played in our – PRC’s – journey.
A Shared Vision
Our work has been driven by a vision of positive transformation, human connection, and community impact. We believe that together, we can make a difference, and your steadfast support has been the catalyst for turning this vision into reality. Whether you’ve been with us from the start or joined us along the way, your commitment to our cause and our clients has been the cornerstone of some of our greatest successes.
Empowering Lives, Making a Difference
Through your generous contributions, both in time and resources, we have been able to initiate and sustain projects that empower and transform lives, while making a lasting impact. From providing emergency financial assistance and recovery services through our Hummingbirds and residential treatment programs to graduating leaders in our LiftUp programs and offering a host of workforce development and legal supports, your partnership has been the driving force behind every success story.
Community Building
One of the most beautiful aspects of PRC is the sense of community that we’ve built together. Your engagement at events and willingness to share our mission with your network and foster a sense of belonging among fellow supporters have created a powerful ripple effect. Together, we are not just an organization. We are a community united by a common goal.
Gratitude in Action
As we express our gratitude, it’s essential to acknowledge the tangible outcomes that your support has enabled. Your contributions help over 5,000 people each year to receive essential resources and play a pivotal role in our policy reform efforts aimed at advancing equity and social justice issues. These achievements are a testament to the collective strength of our community.
Looking Forward
As we’ve acknowledged our past challenges, which have led to our current successes, we are excited about what the future has in store. Your ongoing support is crucial as we continue to innovate, expand our reach, and address new challenges. We are confident that with you by our side, PRC will continue to be a positive force for change.
Thank you so much again for being an integral part of the PRC family.
With gratitude,
Chuan Teng, Chief Executive Officer, PRC
P.S. In case you missed our correspondence about our recent Mighty Real fundraiser, check out our recap and photos, and join us for Songs of the Season on Dec 5th and 6th!
P.P.S. As we near the season of Giving and Giving Tuesday, we would be so grateful if you considered PRC in your end-of-year giving.
PRC is thrilled to share about its incredibly successful Mighty Real Fundraising event that took place on Thursday, November 9th, at the stunning venue, Saint Joseph’s Arts Society. This fabulous evening, named after the signature song, “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real),” of our generous benefactor and disco legend Sylvester, was a celebration of transformation and human connection that raised essential funds for our programs that help more than 5,000 individuals each year to transform their lives for the better.
This year’s theme was transformation, and we curated the evening to showcase how PRC’s services transform our clients’ lives, the progress and growth we have experienced within PRC over the last year, and the power of human connection.
Dale Johannes | Master of CeremoniesFront entrance of Saint Joseph’s Arts Society
Even the venue was a symbol of transformation. Saint Joseph’s Arts Society itself was transformed from a church that closed due to earthquake damage to a breathtakingly beautiful community gathering space and outlet for local artists to display their work. Its location around the corner from PRC’s Integrated Services Center in the heart of the community we serve made it the perfect space for the evening.
A guest writes a letter of encouragement to a PRC client
A home covered in mirror next to a statement explaining how PRC’s Emergency Financial Assistance supports clients as part of a scavenger huntThe winning bidder of a disco heart holds up the item to display to nearby guests
Attendees were encouraged to engage in fun and informative activities as they enjoyed decadent food, libations, music, and community connection. Both staff and clients attended as ambassadors, giving everyone an opportunity to meet the people changing lives, and to hear directly from individuals who have benefitted from them. We enticed guests to explore the unique venue through a curated scavenger hunt to find one-of-a-kind disco items created by PRC’s Seth Abrahamson, each relating to one of our five main program areas, and were later auctioned off. As inspirational energy filled the space, we offered guests an opportunity to write a message of encouragement to a client, an uplifting note from a community that believes in them and is cheering them on. Genuine smiles filled the room from start to finish.
PRC Clients Ranella Benzarti and Porshay Taylor looking and feeling Mighty Real
A pivotal moment of the evening transpired as PRC CEO Chuan Teng encouraged guests to raise a light in response to a series of questions that genuinely reflected their life experiences. For instance, if they knew someone in recovery, if they had lost someone to a substance use disorder, or if they believed transformation is possible.
Guests hold up small electronic candles indicating a connection to someone who has been affected by substance use disorder or mental health
The evening included inspirational speeches from PRC CEO Chuan Teng, PRC Employment Specialist and former client Jasmine Conley (watch here in case you missed it), Sylvester Pillar Awardee Joshua Gamson, Keystone Service Awardee San Francisco Pride represented by Executive Director Suzanne Ford, Outstanding Corporate Partner Awardee Wells Fargo represented by VP of Philanthropy and Community Impact Lorenzo Cordova, and San Francisco Supervisor Matt Dorsey.
Volunteers greet guests as they enter the breathtakingly beautiful Saint Joseph’s Arts Society
A live auction included trips to Italy, Hawaii, and a year of dining out at 12 of San Francisco’s finest restaurants. Guests also gave generously by participating in the fund-a-need paddle raise which culminated in the ability to purchase backpacks for clients filled with emergency provisions.
To close out the evening we danced to the live sounds of DotCom and the Noise. Even this had a connection to transformation as the band’s lead singer shared how he’s benefitted from PRC’s supportive services.
DotCom and the Noise
With our community’s support, we accomplished something incredible. Together, we raised funds for PRC’s essential services, which are vital for San Francisco’s most vulnerable individuals.
A Mighty Real thank you to our event chair Darren Smith, event co-chair Nichole Wiley, the incredible volunteers for making the night a smooth success, PRC staff and client ambassadors, and our generous sponsors: Janice Berthold Heffernan Insurance Brokers, Daniel Hancock & Kent Roger, Scan Medicare Advantage, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Allied Universal, Chevron, Cotchett Pitre & McCarthy, Kaiser Permanente, Josh & Dana Frieman & Brian Schneider and Robert Lieberman, JP Morgan, Michael Niczyporuk & Rachel Forisha, Nuveen Real Estate, Anonymous, Brayer Electric, CBF Electric & Data, Hayse Group Inc., JLL, Leo Levenson Consulting & Rebecca Levenson Consulting, Quest Diagnostics, Skyline Construction, and San Francisco Bay Times (see our write up on page 20).
The full photo gallery from the evening can be accessed here.
If you were unable to join us for this uplifting evening, don’t worry. We would love for you to join us for one or both of two nights of holiday cabaret at Songs of the Season, on Tuesday, and Wednesday, December 5th, and 6th, at Feinstein’s at the Nikko.
This workshop is in-person for people receiving SSI and/or SSDI and working or planning to return to work.
Learn about how working affects eligibility to receive disability income, how to avoid costly pitfalls, and what to do if you receive an overpayment.
This workshop is free and open to the public; however, RSVP is required by August 31, 2023, at 8:00 am. Please only register once to allow others to attend.
415-777-0333
