Tag: #PRCMovesFWD

Happy Valentine’s Day from PRC and save the date

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

As we celebrate the holiday of love, we express our deepest appreciation for your support and engagement. Your partnership is invaluable, and this Valentine’s Day, we offer our heartfelt wishes to you and yours.  

Your care for our mission drives our passion for creating meaningful experiences through which we can share our work and our impact. With that in mind, we would be delighted if you joined us for one, two, or all of our upcoming events in 2024. We’ve curated a diverse array of gatherings that promise to entertain and enrich, and we can’t wait to share these moments with you. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store. Save the date!

PRC Open House
Celebrating our volunteers and five years at our Integrated Services Center
Wednesday, April 3, 5:00 pm
170 9th Street

Join us for the second annual open invitation to tour PRC headquarters as we celebrate our fifth anniversary at 170 9th Street. See first-hand the spaces where many of our life-changing services are offered, meet our dedicated program staff and incredible volunteers, and learn more about the experiences of our clients.

RSVP

Read about last year’s event on our blog. Questions? Contact PRC Chief Development Officer Randi Paul.

Staff Appreciation Month
All May Long

For the third year running, PRC is celebrating its most important asset – its staff – who work hard all year long to provide high-quality, impactful services to community members who need them most.

We’ll show our gratitude with a full month of activities, including costume contests, ice cream and cookie deliveries, spin the wheel for prizes, and trivia games.

Have an idea for how to recognize PRC’s staff? Tell us! Know of a business that might donate toward our festivities? Ask them! We would love your participation!

Read about last year’s event on our blog. Questions? Contact Chief Development Officer Randi Paul. 

Advocacy Day
Wednesday, June 19, Juneteenth
Sacramento

PRC’s initiative, the Black Leadership Council (BLC), hosts its third annual Advocacy Day, “Black In Action”, an exciting opportunity for BLC members to meet with state leaders in Sacramento to discuss policy issues core to improving outcomes for Black Californians.

Questions or interested in participating or supporting this event? Contact PRC Chief of Policy and Government Affairs and BLC Leader Tasha Henneman.

Mighty Real Fundraiser
Friday, October 4, 6:00 pm

PRC’s signature annual fundraising event is named after “Queen of Disco” Sylvester’s song, “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)”, to honor our visionary benefactor.

This celebration demonstrates all the ways in which PRC transforms lives and features opportunities to hear from clients, an exciting live auction and Fund a Need, fabulous performances, and a chance to socialize with everyone from political dignitaries to drag divas.

Read about last year’s event on our blog and photo gallery. More details and tickets for this year’s event to come. Questions? Contact Chief Development Officer Randi Paul. 

Songs of the Season
Tuesday and Wednesday, December 10 and 11, 8:00 pm
Feinstein’s at the Nikko

This quintessential San Francisco holiday-themed cabaret was founded by drag personality Donna Sachet and is produced by Billboard recording artist Brian Kent as a benefit for PRC.

Incredible performances seamlessly merge tradition and whimsy, accompanied by witty banter that captures the essence of the holiday spirit.

Read about last year’s event on our blog. More details and tickets for this year’s event to come. Questions? Contact Chief Development Officer Randi Paul. 

Community Winter Celebration
Wednesday, December 18, 1:00 pm

This new revamp of a longtime beloved tradition is a cherished gathering among PRC staff, volunteers, and clients.

The celebration features music and entertainment, games, raffles, refreshments, and grocery bag giveaways, and creates a greater sense of community for our clients.

Read about last year’s event on our blog. Stay tuned for more details. Questions? Contact Chief Development Officer Randi Paul. 

Your presence at these gatherings would mean the world to us. We look forward to creating cherished memories together in the coming months. Stay tuned for more details, and once again, Happy Valentine’s Day! 

With love, 
PRC

PRC’s Board of Directors visit Baker Street House

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Last month, PRC Board members and leadership staff had an opportunity to step into the shoes of those we serve on a visit to Baker Street House, our original and oldest transitional residential treatment program. This 16-bed facility caters to individuals with serious acute mental illness and offers a vital lifeline for their journey towards recovery. 


Board members gained an intimate understanding of the client experience within our residential care homes and witnessed firsthand the compassionate care and support our clients receive. Board members engaged in meaningful conversations with the dedicated staff who make it all possible.

Lower left, then clockwise | Chief of Policy and Government Affairs Tasha Henneman, Board member Darren Smith, Board member Tamarah Prevost, Board member Michael Niczyporuk, Facilities Manager Rich Mentze, Chief Development Officer Randi Paul, Board member Josh Frieman, Chief Operating Officer Marc Gannon, Chief Clinical Officer Jessica Winterrowd, and Chief Programs Officer Beth Mazie

Baker Street House staff shared that the residential site operates on five fundamental social rehabilitation principles that underscore its commitment to fostering holistic well-being: 

  1. Normalizing the environment: Creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that mirrors everyday life. 
  2. Multidisciplinary staffing: Ensuring a diverse team of professionals collaborate to provide comprehensive care. 
  3. Client involvement in decision-making: Empowering individuals in their recovery journey by actively involving them in the decision-making process. 
  4. Program flexibility and individualized treatment: Tailoring care plans to meet the unique needs of each client. 
  5. Willingness to take risks: Encouraging a proactive approach in navigating challenges and facilitating growth. 

Board members had the following things to share:


“Thank you for hosting us today at Baker Street House. This was a great opportunity to learn a lot more about how one of PRC’s programs operates. I found this extremely helpful and hope to do more of it.”

“It was a great opportunity for us to come together to see firsthand all the great work being done to provide essential services to those in need. Looking forward to our next site visit!”

“I enjoyed learning about the facility. The staff is doing an amazing job.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Baker Street House program staff for graciously hosting us. Their insights provided invaluable context to the impactful work taking place within Baker Street House. Special appreciation goes to Jessica Winterrowd, our new Chief Clinical Officer, for consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership skills by effectively motivating team members and fostering a collaborative work environment.

This visit was not just a tour. It was an immersive experience that deepened our connection to the heart of PRC. As we continue our mission, we carry with us the shared commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. 

In community, 
PRC

PRC welcomes Colin Hartke to our Board of Directors

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the PRC family, Colin Hartke, who joins our Board of Directors. Colin brings over 15 years of invaluable experience in healthcare, currently serving as the Senior Director of Marketing/Strategy at Quest Diagnostics.

Colin’s track record is nothing short of impressive, with a proven history of driving growth through innovative strategies and marketing initiatives. His commitment to health equity and humanitarian values aligns seamlessly with PRC’s mission, reflecting a genuine dedication to the well-being of those he serves.

Beyond his role at Quest, Colin is deeply involved in community service. He tutors high school students at Mission Graduates and volunteers for a national consortium focused on reducing exposure to toxic chemicals, showcasing his passion for making a positive impact on public health. As a leader and sponsor of “Quest Cares”, Quest’s volunteer employee group, Colin actively fosters a culture of giving back. Last August, PRC had the privilege of partnering with Colin, Quest Diagnostics, the National AIDS Memorial, and the San Francisco Community Health Center on a Community Roundtable event at the AIDS Memorial Grove, a collaboration captured in the photo below.

Left to right | Deena Lahn, Vice President, Policy & External Affairs, San Francisco Community Clinic Consortium; Billy Lemon, Executive Director, Castro Country Club; Dan Bernal, Vice Chancellor for Community & Government Relations, UCSF; John Cunningham, Chief Executive Officer, National AIDS Memorial; Chuan Teng, Chief Executive Officer, PRC; Lance Toma, Chief Executive Officer, San Francisco Community Health Center; Colin Hartke, Senior Director of Marketing/Strategy, Quest Diagnostics.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Colin Hartke. We look forward to the impactful contributions he will undoubtedly make towards our organization and achieving our mission.

In community,
PRC

Covered California Announces One More Week to enroll for Coverage in 2024!

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

In response to the increased demand for health insurance and disruption at their service centers, Covered California is extending the deadline to sign up for 2024 healthcare coverage to midnight on February 9, 2024. Any enrollment completed by February 9, 2024, will be considered effective February 1, 2024.

Covered California is the state’s platform for individuals to access affordable, high-quality insurance options. It is where consumers can compare health plans and review potential financial assistance to find the best coverage that fits their individual needs and budget.

Consumers can reach the Covered California service center at (800) 300-1506 for assistance. To avoid longer wait times or difficulties reaching a Covered California representative over the phone, consumers can visit CoveredCA.com for free and confidential online assistance. It is essential that eligible consumers take advantage of this extra opportunity to have health insurance for the rest of the year.

A Heartwarming Gathering: Extending Joy Beyond Our Clients to Community

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

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! 

In Community, 

PRC Team 

My Meeting with Bob

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

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.  

Chuan Teng
PRC CEO

A testament to the resilience of the human spirit

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

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.

Donate Today

Your donation will:  

  • 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.  

  

Warmly,  

  Michael Kyle  

PRC Board Member  


  
  

PRC Welcomes Michael Kyle to Board of Directors 

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

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.  

Heartfelt thanks: Celebrating our incredible supporters

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

Dear Friend,

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’s Mighty Real affirmed the power of transformation and human connection. 

Posted on by Seth Abrahamson

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 Ceremonies
Front 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 hunt
The 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 would like to extend your support of this year’s Mighty Real, you still can.

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.

Tickets are now on sale