16 WINTER 2020
W
here were you in 1992? If you were in
the gift industry, chances are you knew
someone who was affected by AIDS. Some
in the trade couldn't sit by and watch the devastating
toll it was taking. "Many friends, colleagues and
associates were no longer there — it was apparent
they were dying of AIDS," said Peter Schauben. So he
gathered 60 members of the industry and got them
together to find a way to make a difference. Gift for
Life was created and has since united the industry to
fight AIDS.
Fast forward 28 years. AIDS is not over, but it's not
top-of-mind for millenials either. Approximately 1.1
million people in the U.S. are living with HIV today,
and about 15% of them (1 in 7) are unaware they are
infected. According to the Centers for Disease Control,
we have the tools available to end the HIV epidemic,
giving us a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Landmark research has led to many successful
treatment regimens, prevention strategies, and
improved care.
Progress has been made. Gift for Life has raised more
than $5 million for AIDS research and education, and
HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. There is finally
hope but it comes with a hefty price tag. Until care
is affordable for those who live with the disease, and
until there is a cure, there is still work to be done.
Consider participating in the GFL industry
events, award galas, cause marketing, and auctions
throughout the year. Together we can make a
difference. Join us in Atlanta for the Party for Life
on January 15 at the Fernbank Museum. We are
excited to welcome celebrity designer and Honorary
Chairman Thom Filicia to host the event and we will
be recognizing gift visionary Anne McGilvray. See
you there!
Editor-in-Chief
and GFL board member
STILL UNITED
IN THE FIGHT
F R O M T H E E D I T O R
Circle 358
