Jake Glaser Shares Story, Motivates Future Advocates at HIV/AIDS Summit
Posted by
Taylor Moore
Washington, D.C.
September 27, 2011
Last week I had the opportunity to watch our Foundation Ambassador,
Jake Glaser, inspire a group of future advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
I attended the 5th Annual San Gabriel Valley City of Hope HIV/AIDS Action Summit, sponsored by
California Assemblymember Anthony Portantino, and presented by the
City of Hope organization.
City of Hope is an independent biomedical research, treatment, and education institution based near Los Angeles. It specializes in life-threatening illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes.
The event was incredible – bringing together high school and college students, local politicians, and the public to learn about HIV/AIDS, and to discuss how to raise awareness about the disease. The ultimate goal of the event is to continue progress toward reducing new HIV infections, and ensuring treatment to those living with the virus.
Jake answers questions with California Assemblymember
Portantino after his speech. (Photo: EGPAF)
Jake was invited to attend as the Summit’s keynote speaker. In his remarks, he spoke movingly about his mother – Elizabeth Glaser – his work with the Foundation, and his involvement in HIV/AIDS advocacy. He also offered his own advice on staying healthy and being active in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“AIDS is still an important issue that demands our upmost attention,” Jake explained to the audience as he spoke about the continued challenges in worldwide efforts to end the epidemic.
Many of those attending the event knew little about the disease and its continued effects around the world, driving home the purpose of the Summit -- to educate and advocate.
Jake closed his speech by asking the audience to join him in the fight against AIDS.
Assemblymember Portantino, Val Zavala of KCET, and
Jake. (Photo: EGPAF)
“To all of the students here today: The future lies in your hands. It is our generation that will continue the work. We have the opportunity to grow from what those before us have found. We have the opportunity to ask questions, to challenge the status quo, to make those tough choices and take those risks. We must remember that actions are what save lives, and we must never become complacent.”
It was motivating to watch so many young people feel inspired by Jake’s words and the education they received at the Summit.
Like Jake, if we continue to reach out and share our knowledge, we can help introduce new advocates to the fight against AIDS.
Learn more about how you can join us by
clicking here.
Taylor Moore is a Senior Communications Coordinator for the Foundation, based in Washington, D.C.