Shacazia Brown appeared serendipitously at GMHC’s offices over 10 years ago wanting to be of help. She spoke to a staff person and offered to organize a toy drive and holiday party for the children of parents living with and affected by HIV and AIDS. The first staff person she talked with was caught by surprise with this immensely generous offer, not knowing if it could be trusted. Yet soon, more staff persons were included in the discussion, and the first-ever SOMWA Foundation holiday party and gift drive were organized—mostly by Shacazia and her team of volunteers. She enlisted support from her contacts who donated thousands of toys and sponsored the food and activities at the party as well. A few hundred guests arrived consisting of families, and a handful of staff members and volunteers arrived to help. It was a glorious experience—and that was just the start.

Each year after the first gift drive and holiday party, the majestic parade of kindness continued to happen for the families whom GMHC served. Plus, there was a sponsored boat cruise on Mother’s Day for mothers living with HIV and AIDS, a family outing for families to Great Adventure—and more. The vast number of gifts for the children extended to a new wheelchair for a little boy, bikes for children, and a free trip for one family to Florida. It has seemed unbelievable. How could one person be this dedicated, giving and nurturing—without being a millionaire?  If we were to try and calculate the in-kind donations over the years, it would be in the tens of thousands of dollars. 

Throughout these years, GMHC has shined the light on Shacazia’s visionary leadership and philanthropic efforts such as having her story published in the AIDS Walk New York newsletter--GMHC’s largest fundraiser--interviews on TV networks, as well as GMHC’s annual report and website. We wanted to world to know how grateful we have been by Shacazia who is extraordinary—and that she is a powerful example of what philanthropy looks like which could inspire others. We have watched her grow personally and even expand her work in starting to build a school in Africa for children impacted by HIV and AIDS. 

Most importantly, GMHC’s clients have benefited by her magnanimity. For many of the families living with and affected by HIV and AIDS we have and continue to serve, they face complex health disparities such as poverty, stigma, discrimination, racism, food insecurity, lack of quality healthcare, housing, jobs—and more. To be able to celebrate the holidays, enjoy meals, and receive gifts for their children has provided hope and encouragement. And that is one of the greatest gifts GMHC could ask for in our daily work serving communities impacted by the HIV and AIDS epidemic.