That’s what friends are for

The Bobby Goldsmith Foundation is holding a relaunch party for its Friends program next week to reward the contribution of those who support the HIV/AIDS community.

The loyalty program for regular donors is also aiming wider with an online sign-up facility and forum.

By becoming a -˜Friend’ and making a regular monthly donation, you can help us to continue providing consistent quality care and support, BGF CEO Bev Lange said.

And without friends, she said, those living in poverty with HIV/AIDS have very little.

Goldsmith’s friends established the charity in 1984 after he was diagnosed with HIV and was unable to support himself financially.

Since then the number of clients has grown into the thousands.

With the increasing costs associated with a large number of clients, BGF has been looking at creative ways to keep the community motivated to support those in need.

The Red Scarf appeal has been a success, tapping into a market for bright red accessories and raising much needed funds.

And now they’re looking at ways to make the Friends more involved, including regular social events specifically for the program.

Steve McAleer said he’d been involved with the program since its inception in 2001 and found it rewarding to know it was helping those in his own community.

You don’t need to know someone with AIDS to know that it’s important, McAleer said.

Red scarves, beach towels and wristbands can be purchased from Aussie Boys, Darlinghurst, and Westpac branches in Darlinghurst and Surry Hills, or through the BGF website.

Participants in the BGF Friends program can enjoy the relaunch at Will & Toby’s on Tuesday 28 August, 6.30pm. People wanting to join the Friends program can sign up on the BGF website www.bgf.org.au.