A Night to Savor in New York

SAVOR is an annual fundraiser benefiting the Gay Men's Health Crisis in New York, which is one of the few AIDS service organizations in New York to offer hunger relief services— hot meals, nutrition counseling, and a well-stocked food pantry—as part of its array of care services.

“We started SAVOR four years ago in order to bring attention to and raise critical funds for our important food programs,” said Marjorie J. Hill, PhD, GMHC’s Chief Executive Officer who's pictured here with returning event host, Ted Allen. “While GMHC annually serves 100,000 hot, nutritious meals, access to food remains a daily struggle for thousands of HIV-positive people throughout NYC and the United States."

This year's event will be held on Monday, March 7. The evening will honor celebrated philanthropist-activist Joan Tisch for her humanitarian efforts and achievements to end AIDS. As Hill explained, "By recognizing Judith’s life-long commitment to GMHC and the vital work Joan continues to do today, we share our tremendous gratitude for the supporters who make programs and services at GMHC possible.”

But this isn't your typical stuffy fundraiser. In reality, it's a food lover's dream.

The evening begins with a cocktail reception and silent/live auctions of exclusive culinary and travel packages and experiences. This is followed by a four-course menu that's been specially designed by some of New York’s most celebrated chefs, including Peter Hoffman of Savoy, Stephen Lewandowski of Tribeca Grill, Francois Payard of Francois Payard Bakery, and Carmen Quagliata of Union Square Café.

 Also in attendance will be Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell of Planet Green’s hit TV show The Fabulous Beekman Boys (picture right). The couple—who met on Gay.com years ago— are co-chairing the dinner. Naturally, that means it will incorporate sustainable food practices and showcase the best local produce in celebration of New York’s culinary artistry.

Tickets for SAVOR are available by calling 212.367.1557 or online at www.gmhc.org.