Updated at 6:12 p.m., Sunday, March 18, 2007
High school students invited to AIDS fundraiser tonight
Advertiser Staff
Punahou senior Meghan Akim, with co-chair Nikki Costales and support from several fellow Punahou High School students, has organized the second "Aid to AIDS" teen fundraiser to fight HIV and AIDS in Hawai'i.The alcohol-free, Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser is called "March Masquerade" and will be held from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. tonight at Rumours nightclub in Ala Moana Hotel.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Life Foundation, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting AIDS in Hawai'i and the Pacific.
In 2005, the Aid to AIDS committee organized a Halloween-themed fundraiser, raising $7,000 for the Life Foundation. Akim decided to start the Aid to AIDS committee after learning about the effect HIV/AIDS has on children, both those who are HIV positive and those who are orphaned or have parents affected by HIV/AIDS.
"My vision and mission for 'Aid to AIDS' has not only been to raise funds for the battle against HIV/AIDS, but to also raise awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS, especially in the teenage population," Akim said.
The event is open to all high school students on O'ahu. Tickets are $17 at the door and are good for two soft drinks, two hours of food and a chocolate dipping-fountain, and five hours of DJ music and dancing. Masks and dramatic makeup are encouraged but optional.
