Dining Out forLife
Now in its thirteenth year here in the Bluegrass, Dining Out For Life® (DOFL) has become one of Lexington’s most celebrated (and tasty) annual charity events; a favorite amongst diners and restauranteurs alike, it is synonymous with the fight to end HIV in Kentucky and provide housing for the medical vulnerable including persons living with HIV. More than 60 cities across the United States and Canada are home to DOFL events each year. On average, 2,400+ restaurants, 4,100+ volunteers, and 300,000+ diners raise over $4.5 million annually. Here in Lexington, AVOL Kentucky has eclipsed the million-dollar-mark since launching DOFL in 2009.
“I never cease to be in awe by the resolve Lexingtonians have to love and care for their neighbors in need,” said AVOL Executive Director Jon Parker. “Our restaurant partners, sponsors, and the community inspire our team daily to seek out new and meaningful partnerships and opportunities which allow us to fulfil our mission and make the Bluegrass a better place.” AVOL is Kentucky’s leading advocate for HIV prevention and champion for eradicating the disease once and for
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all. The community-focused nonprofit provides extensive outreach, education, access to free HIV testing, prevention options, and connectivity to care. For individuals living with HIV, AVOL responds to and develops new housing opportunities which address critical housing needs. Stable housing has a direct impact on health outcomes. Individuals who are stably housed are more likely to achieve viral suppression and healthy living. Later this year, AVOL will open Stonewall Terrace, a 26-unit housing community for our most medically vulnerable including persons living with HIV. DOFL throughout the years has enabled this opportunity to finally happen. Parker shared that funds raised through DOFL ensure more people who are living with HIV know their status, decreases the number of new HIV infections, assists more people living with HIV get connected to and maintain proper medical care, helps people achieve and maintain viral suppression, and eliminates health disparities and HIV stigma. For a complete list of participating restaurants participating on September 16th, to donate, or learn more, please visit www.dineoutlex.com.
September 2021 | TOPS in Lexington
