In anticipation of the “Red Ribbon Affair” AIDS Network’s public relations machine is in full gear.
Dan Curd says: “Red Ribbon Affair, held on April 16 at Monona Terrace, will mark AIDS Network’s 25th anniversary…..“Last year 478 guests attended Red Ribbon Affair,” said AIDS Network Director of Development Dan Curd. “This year we are expecting a record crowd since it’s a milestone in the agency’s history. I know many former board members, executive directors, staff and volunteers will attend.”
Our response: What is there to celebrate, Dan?
- Keeping the doors open for 25 years and allowing the agency to drift into a state of complete dysfunction?
- Failing to evolve from a “diagnosis to death” social service agency into an agency that meets the long term challenges of living with HIV/AIDS?
- Failure to adhere to the board adopted “Donor Bill of Rights”?
- Allowing your President to invoke hate speech in response to legitimate (and documented) concerns regarding the failings of AIDS Network?
- Refusing to meet with ACT UP Wisconsin?
- The purchase of over a dozen ACT UP Wisconsin web domains?
- Failure to effectively supervise case managers as evidenced by hundreds of hours spent on the “Frisky.com” website during office hours?
- A board of directors that has dwindled down to 9 members?
- That supposedly no client records were compromised the night that the doors to the agency were left propped open?
- Refusing to effectively collaborate with ARCW despite their generous offers of assistance?
Dan Curd says: “…Much has changed over the years…But not our commitment, compassion or caring for those living with HIV/AIDS in our community. We also still depend upon an army of volunteers to support our mission—something we’re very proud of.”
Our response: We agree—much has changed over the years. The problem is that AIDS Network hasn’t. Also, we’ve never received clarification as to what AIDS Network’s current mission is.
Dan Curd concludes by stating that “Red Ribbon Affair is always a much anticipated event, especially the silent auction.” said Curd. “I think it’s fair to say that it’s one of the biggest and best in the area. We always have a lot of one-of-again objects and this year is no exception. A sampling should be on our website soon. Red Ribbon Affair 2009 grossed almost $55,000 for AIDS Network”
Our response: This is another sad attempt to lead the donating public to a false conclusion regarding where the dollars they donate to this agency go. According to Curd’s statement Red Ribbon grossed “$55,000.00” for AIDS Network in 2009. That is completely irrelevant. What was the “NET INCOME” for the event? Sadly, this is simply another indicator of the agency’s unwillingness to come clean with donors and provide accurate information regarding the costs of special events.
