Get your red clothes out in support of the fight against HIV/AIDS

Get ready to dig your finest red clothing out of the closet for the second annual Positively Red Ball.

Group Health Centre’s HIV and AIDS Resources Program (HARP) has once again teamed up with the Sault Ste. Marie Museum to present The Positively Red Ball 2— a 19+ event aimed at raising awareness and funds in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

This year’s event will take place on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at The Grand Gardens. This event will also raise funds for an HIV/AIDS Memorial Wall, which will be installed at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum.

“We’re thrilled to bring the event back to the community after the fantastic response we received last year,” said Roy Schuuhuis, Healthy Sexuality and Prevention Coordinator at HARP in a news release issued today. “The Positively Red Ball is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a chance to come together, break down stigma, and support individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the Algoma District.”

For more information, see the release below. 

Mark your calendars and get ready to don your finest red attire because the Positively Red Ball is back for its second year! Group Health Centre’s HIV and AIDS Resources Program (HARP) has once again teamed up with the Sault Ste. Marie Museum to present The Positively Red Ball 2—a 19+ event aimed at raising awareness and funds in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

This year’s event will take place on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at The Grand Gardens. Due to overwhelming demand and the success of last year’s event, the Positively Red Ball 2 promises to be an even bigger and more exciting night for the community.

“We’re thrilled to bring the event back to the community after the fantastic response we received last year,” said Roy Schuuhuis, Healthy Sexuality and Prevention Coordinator at HARP. “The Positively Red Ball is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a chance to come together, break down stigma, and support individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the Algoma District.”

The Positively Red Ball 2 will raise funds for an HIV/AIDS Memorial Wall, which will be installed at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum. This memorial will honour those who have passed, as well as individuals living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in the community.

“The museum is proud to host this memorial as a permanent reminder of the strength and resilience of those impacted by HIV/AIDS,” said William Hollingshead, Executive Director and Chief Curator at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum. “It’s a meaningful addition to our collection and an important step in raising awareness about the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.”

The event will feature an exciting lineup of entertainment, including DJ Matt J. Dub, signature cocktails, and a special appearance by Royal Guest of Honour Christine Decelles James. The fabulous Lana Von Archer will host the evening, and guests can enjoy an antipasto bar, a 50/50 draw, and awards for standout attendees in their most glamorous red attire.

“We aim to not only raise funds for a critical cause but also to build a sense of community and understanding about the realities of living with HIV/AIDS,” added Schuuhuis. “And, of course, we plan to have a fantastic time while doing it!”

Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme of the evening, “Wear Your Best Red,” with over-the-top formal red outfits symbolizing support for those living with HIV.

Tickets are available for $85 and can be purchased online at saultmuseum.ca/positively-red-ball or through HARP. Tickets will also be available at the door for $90. For those looking to attend with a group, tables of 10 can be reserved for $725 by calling 705-542-3417.

For more information, visit saultmuseum.ca/positively-red-ball.