Victory Programs honors Mayor Menino

Mayor Recognized for His Support at Annual Celebration of Life Thanksgiving Dinner Serving Members of the HIV/AIDS Community; Vows to Be Back Next Year

On Tuesday, November 19, 2013 Victory Programs' Boston Living Center hosted the Celebration of Life Thanksgiving Dinner at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston-an annual event for people living with HIV/AIDS, and their families.

"The Boston Living Center's annual joyous Celebration of Life dinner is one of the most beautiful, spirited and important events in our city of Boston," says Victory Programs' President and CEO Jonathan Scott. "Of the near 1,000 attendees-guests and volunteers-each has in some way endured loss in the history of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, and each participates in giving comfort and support. In the true spirit of celebration, this dinner gathering creates a sparkling room of hope and community."

"This room is the true spirit of the holiday season," Mayor Menino said to the crowd. "The spirit ofsharing, companionship and giving thanks. That's what it's all about, folks. Programs like this are the ones that give me energy, give me enthusiasm. Seeing so many folks who volunteered, that tells you something. There's giving, there's compassion in the city of Boston."

The Celebration of Life is Victory Programs' largest fundraiser, raising more than $100,000 to ensure vital HIV/AIDS programming is preserved. Guests were entertained by Next Step's One Love, a group of youth performers living with HIV/AIDS. The 2013 World Series Trophy was also on hand at the event, and guests lined up to take photos in front of it. Liz Walker formerly of CBS Boston Channel 4 emceed the evening's events.

Photo by: Reeves Bright and Joe Toccio

Photos by: Reeves Bright and Joe Toccio

Photos by: Reeves Bright and Joe Toccio

Photos by: Reeves Bright and Joe Toccio