Tomorrow is the 27th annual World AIDS Day… a day to offer support for those affected by HIV and AIDS across the world, and honor those we’ve lost since the pandemic began over 30 years ago.

It’s also a day to continue important conversations about HIV prevention, treatment, and an eventual cure. If everyone makes a commitment to get tested, and learns to live and love safely, then we could eliminate AIDS in our lifetime.

The Desert AIDS Project, is doing their part for the community. Through their Get Tested Coachella Valley program – the nation’s first-ever, region-wide HIV testing and access-to-care initiative – they provide free and confidential HIV testing to thousands of Palm Springs and Coachella Valley residents.

In honor of World AIDS Day, please spread the word about GTCV, as well as other testing sites in the region. You can view testing sites by clicking here.

Here are activities for World AIDS Day at the Desert AIDS Project's main campus:

They will mark the day with a rededication of the beautiful “Ribbon of Hope” – a red-glass-and-copper-wire sculpture that will move to its new home in the main hallway, right next to the entrance of the on-site medical clinic, where they serve more than 2,600 clients annually.

They will also feature activities for clients throughout the day, including two showings of “Desert Migration,” a documentary featuring several D.A.P. clients and others living with HIV in Palm Springs. The film chronicles individuals who, upon diagnosis 20-30 years ago, believed they were handed a death sentence. Instead, they’ve been embraced by their community and are living happier, healthier lives.

Tomorrow night, D.A.P. will host the 2nd Annual Everyday Heroes event at the Camelot Theaters, honoring five volunteers who are “everyday people doing extraordinary things” for D.A.P. clients.Tickets are still available – visit the D.A.P. website for more information.

Let’s look ahead to a bright future and a world without AIDS.