MILWAUKEE (March 12, 2025) – There is a pervasive myth that HIV is not a problem anymore, but the fact remains that the disease is still a complex and costly problem—especially for those of lesser means. Vivent Health’s Make A Promise Gala raises critical funds to serve its mission: helping all people with HIV to live their healthiest lives.
The first Make A Promise was in 1986 when a group of gay Milwaukee men held a dinner party to raise money when there was little hope or help for HIV and AIDS. This annual event proves change is possible when ordinary people come together to help their neighbors. However, treating HIV, an ongoing chronic illness, presents significant challenges. For the many without financial assistance, access to life-saving medication is financially out of reach, and viral suppression is an impossible goal.
Because no one should have to choose between health and basic needs, Vivent Health provides approximately $770,000 per year in medication assistance to patients in Milwaukee, primarily covering the cost of anti-retroviral medication. Funds raised at Make A Promise help fill this financial gap, keep patients healthy, and further the progress toward ending the HIV epidemic in our city.
This year’s Make A Promise gala will be on Friday, April 4 at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, at 6 p.m. with WISN 12’s Gerron Jordan as the emcee. Vivent Health is proud to honor two outstanding individuals who have made a profound difference in working to end HIV/AIDS in Milwaukee:
- Courage Award: Greg León, Amilinda chef, owner, and James Beard nominee for his unwavering strength, advocacy, and leadership as a person living with HIV. Through his openness about his journey, Chef León has helped break down stigma, foster dialogue, and inspire others in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
- Leadership Award: Dr. Jeffrey Kelly of the Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR) at the Medical College of Wisconsin for his groundbreaking contributions to HIV prevention, advocacy, and community engagement. As a leading researcher, Dr. Kelly has dedicated his career to developing and implementing innovative behavioral interventions that empower individuals and communities affected by HIV.
“For many, access to life-saving medical help and viral suppression is financially out of reach, said Margaret Lidstone, Chief Philanthropy & Community Engagement Officer of Vivent Health. “Vivent Health works to remove financial barriers to care, but we can only do so with the philanthropic support of the Milwaukee community.”
Proceeds from Make A Promise support the Dr. Brian P Buggy Fund, a lifeline for those who face the cruel reality of choosing either meals or medication by providing financial support for HIV care, life-saving medications, and necessities like food and housing. In 2025, the need is growing, and resources are stretching thin. This fund, established in partnership with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, is named after Brian Buggy, an Infectious Disease specialist who has dedicated his life to studying and caring for people living with HIV.
When: Friday, April 4, 2025 @ 6 p.m.
Where: Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, 139 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WITickets and more information are available here.
