One winter night about 12 years ago I was invited to Florence and Karl Suerig’s home to discuss how to celebrate the life of their son Michael, who had been lost to AIDS. It was a triumphant night, not only in recognizing the beauty of one man’s life but also recognizing the commitment that a few concerned citizens had for the well-being of others inflicted with the disease. That night the Red Ribbon Foundation was birthed. From the loss of one, and so many before him, was born an organization that has filled me with pride, promise, optimism and satisfaction since 1994.

As we all recognized that night, the fight depended on us, especially in a community such as ours which to this day remains relatively untouched by the epidemic. With our strong arms and passionate voices we continue this fight today. Together, the individuals, foundations and corporations that contribute to the Red Ribbon Foundation are taking the fight to this enemy, with education, research, and programs that inspire hope and offer loving care to those who need it. We do so by supporting organizations as close to home as Greenwich and Stamford, CT and as far away as sub-Saharan Africa.

At its essence, the Red Ribbon Foundation rallies the fight to eradicate HIV/AIDS by awarding grants to organizations committed to prevention-education, cutting-edge research and compassionate care of individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

As each member of our dedicated board reminds themselves every day, ‘the fight depends on you’. And so, we rally around our red ribbon and dedicate ourselves to this fight because, together, we can stop HIV/AIDS.

Scott Williams
President, Red Ribbon Foundation