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July Update

Summer is in full swing, and so are the Center's programs and engagement opportunities. Scroll down for upcoming events, inspiring stories, and the latest updates from the Center for Health and Hope. 

Denver Pride Parade

Thank you for all the amazing volunteers who represented the Center at this year's Pride Parade. Over 250 organizations were represented in the Parade (one of the largest in the U.S.), which helps to ensure that The Center on Colfax continues to provide safe, essential, and affirming resources and spaces for Colorado's LGBTQ+ community.


Interested in being a Center volunteer at a future event? Click below!

Addressing Mental Health

The Gift of Hope program in Meru, Kenya, is the Center’s largest annual investment, supporting 330 children with education and essential resources, many of whom were orphaned due to AIDS-related illnesses. Recognizing the growing importance of mental and emotional well-being, the Center recently approved a new counseling initiative that will provide psychosocial support to both the children and their guardians.


The program is being implemented in partnership with trained counselors from Meru General Hospital, the Methodist Treatment Centre, and Kenya Methodist University (KeMU). In addition, the Center continues to support mental health services for members of Meru's LGBTQ+ community, helping to ensure that vulnerable individuals have access to compassionate care and support.

July 14 Conversation & Community

The Center's popular social hour takes place Tuesday, July 14 at Art Club Coffee (3659 Navajo St.) in the Highlands neighborhood. This casual evening of conversation and community will include Center updates and a presentation by Aaron Shipman-Negrete from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Office of STI/HIV/Viral Hepatitis, regarding the status of HIV in Colorado. A $25 donation includes a beverage.

Hope in Kenya

This month, 13 members of Hope UMC in Greenwood Village, CO, are traveling to Kenya to deepen relationships with the Center's partners, witness the impact of our shared work, and participate in projects that support local communities. During their visit, they will participate in the dedication of two Center-sponsored homes for vulnerable families, plus a community medical camp. Their presence is a powerful reminder of the connections that unite communities across the globe in hope, compassion, and service.

August 7 Swinging@AIDS Golf Tournament

We’re celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Center’s beloved golf tournament, which supports our programs in India and general operations.


Join us at Applewood Golf Course in Golden for a memorable day on the course, including a special luncheon tribute honoring our 2026 Humanitarians of the Year, Jean and Ben Galloway.


Sponsorships, foursomes, and individual registrations are now open.

Summer Camp in Sillery Gaon, India

One of the Center's treasured partnerships is with the Kolkata Children's Home, a residence for 50 children affected by HIV. Thanks to the support of generous donors, the children recently had the opportunity to attend a summer camp in the Eastern Himalayas.


Nestled along the historic Silk Route, the village of Sillery Gaon offered a refreshing escape from the energy and crowds of Kolkata. Surrounded by mountain vistas, birdsong, and the beauty of nature, the children experienced a sense of peace and adventure that will be remembered for years to come. We are delighted to report that the trip was a tremendous success, filled with laughter, learning, and joy.

September 17 20th Anniversary Celebration

Join us for the Center’s 20th Anniversary Celebration at Denver’s Jewish Community Center.


The dinner and program will celebrate our past and inspire what’s ahead, featuring cultural cuisine and entertainment, special guests, and more. Bonnie and Don Messer will be honored with the Global Impact Award for their many years of dedicated service.


Sponsorships, tables, and individual tickets are now available.  

Recognition

Dr. Catherine Mutua, Founder and Executive Director of the Methodist Treatment Centre, has been appointed by William Ruto, the President of Kenya, to serve as the Non-Executive Chairperson of the Tana and Athi Rivers Development board for a three year term. Dr. Mutua will be joining us in Denver for the Center's 20th Anniversary Celebration in September. Congratulations Catherine on your recent honor and appointment!

Introducing the Hope, History, & Humanity Workshops

Mark your calendars for this series of FREE workshops open to the entire Denver community. Organized by the Center, the workshops will focus on understanding HIV in 2026, the impact of stigma, and LGBTQ+ history and the fight for equality.


Dates: Wednesday, September 23, October 21, and November 18

Location: Park Hill United Methodist Church

Time: 6-7:30pm


Community-partners: The Center on Colfax, Vivent Health, Colorado Health Network, Gilead, and Park Hill UMC. Sponsored by the Church and Society Grant Program of the United Methodist Church.

Invest in People Impacted by HIV & AIDS

  • Online at Center for Health and Hope | Donate
  • With a check sent to: 
    Center for Health and Hope, P.O. Box 202977, Denver CO 80220
  • Through a donor-advised fund - our EIN is 20-4199173
  • Through an IRA distribution if you are 70 1/2 or older
  • Through a stock transfer - contact us at centerforhealthandhope@gmail.com
  • By joining the Center's Legacy Circle - Dedicate part of your legacy to helping those impacted by HIV and AIDS. Bequests of all sizes are welcomed. Contact Justin Levy at centerforhealthandhope@gmail.com to discuss options for planned giving.
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