This month, I want to begin with a heartfelt thank you to Richmond Ermet Aid Foundation (REAF). Their recent fundraiser raised $2,500 in support of LKAPS, and we are deeply grateful for their continued generosity. For decades, REAF has stood alongside HIV/AIDS organizations, helping to sustain vital programs and strengthen community connections. That legacy of support is felt here in Palm Springs, and we are honored to be among the organizations they have chosen to uplift.
We are especially pleased to welcome REAF leaders Ken Henderson and Joe Seiler as guest speakers at our upcoming National HIV/AIDS Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day Dinner. This year’s gathering will take place on Wednesday, June 24 at the Mizell Center and remains one of the most meaningful events on our calendar. Ken and Joe bring with them not only a deep history of advocacy and philanthropy, but also a personal connection to the communities they have served for so many years. Their presence will make this evening all the more special.
We’re also pleased to share that Danny Kopelson has agreed to speak at the dinner on Wednesday, June 24 at the Mizell Center. Danny is a longtime HIV/AIDS activist and a familiar presence in the Palm Springs LGBTQ and performing arts community. He will share reflections from his experiences over the years, adding a meaningful and personal dimension to the evening. We look forward to hearing his story and celebrating the legacy and resilience of our community together. An Evite with full details will be sent in June.
Finally, thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent Dine Around at La Tablita. These gatherings continue to remind us how important it is to create space for connection, conversation, and community. We appreciate all who attended and helped make the evening such a success.
Thank you, as always, for being part of LKAPS.
Warmly, Jax
Jax Kelly, President Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs (AIDS Survivor Syndrome) JaxKelly@LKAPS.org
Social Events
Social Committee Meeting via Zoom. Wednesday May 20th @ 5:00 PM Join Here!
Tender Swagger Docent Tour: Vinnie (Our excellent docent 4th from right) had incredible insights and knowledge of the LGBTQ+ exhibit. We’ll be looking to do another in June. Thank you Vinnie!
The Roundtable
The Roundtable is our weekly drop-in discussion group, where we make connections and build community through conversation. Peer coordinators facilitate discussions of topics both serious and fun that include and allow everyone to participate.
Got a topic that’s been on your mind? Send your idea to the roundtable team and join the conversation!
SUMMER IS COMING! So, the ONLINE Roundtable will meet MONTHLY on the LAST Tuesday ONLY, starting in May…
May 2026 Topics:
May 7 – What would you do if you knew a proven cure for HIV was available?
May 14 – At this stage of your life, what do you have passion or desire for?
May 21 – Do we objectify younger men? In what ways and why? Has that changed as you’ve gotten older?
May 28 – Have there been any incidents in your life that showed you that you are stronger than you thought?
BONUS TOPIC TUESDAY May 26 ONLINE – What is your favorite LKAPS (or community) activity and why (Dine Around, Potluck, Roundtable, Bowling, etc.)?
Ristretto 500 S Palm Canyon Dr #100, Palm Springs, CA 92264
HIV Wellness Initiative
Monthly TM Courses
TM courses are offered about once/month in Palm Springs, for those living with HIV (and their caregivers) the course fees are fully covered by grants and scholarships. There’s no charge to participate.
Our community is built on the strength of our shared history. “Knowing Me, Knowing You” is our dedicated space for members to share their personal HIV journeys—the challenges, the triumphs, and the resilience that defines us as long-term survivors.
Read & Submit: You can read the latest stories from your fellow members and submit your own story online all in one place. You don’t have to be a professional writer to participate; your voice and your journey are what matter most. Sharing your story helps ensure that no one in our community feels they are walking this path alone. Share your story here!
Knowing Me, Knowing You
From Beverly Hills Gemologist to Community Advocate
Fred Maypark’s life has been a brilliant mosaic of creativity and resilience. After a flourishing career serving elite clients like Robin Williams and Lana Turner, Fred faced a life-altering HIV diagnosis in 1994. Now thriving for over 32 years, Fred has turned his personal battles and profound losses into a dedicated mission of advocacy and volunteerism right here in Palm Springs.
Mizell Center 480 S Sunrise Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Pals Seminar
Saturday may 16th, 9:00 – 11:00 AM
Join PALS for an enlightening seminar that delves into the crucial decisions of choosing the best living arrangements for your golden years. As we navigate the complexities of aging.
The Center CV 1301 N Palm Canyon Dr #301, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Pals Circle
Every Monday 6 – 7 PM
Circle is an informal weekly zoom drop-in for connection and support. There is no agenda, no topic – like getting together at grandmother’s house every week. Enjoy! It’s powerful.
A Death Café is a group-led open conversation about death and dying. It is not counseling or a bereavement group; and there is no agenda, specified topics, or designated outcomes.
May 18:NHIV Vaccine Awareness Day (HVAD) Purpose: This day recognizes the man volunteers, community members, health professionals, and scientists who work together to find a sage and effective preventive HIV vaccine.
June 5: HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day (HLTSAD) Purpose: This day honors the resilience of those who have lived with HIV for decades–specifically those who were diagnosed before the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) in 1996.
Significance of the Date: June 5 was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the first official report from the CDC in 1981, which described the five cases of what would later be known as AIDS. This date is widely considered the start of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Donate your HIV Meds
Donate your not needed HIV Meds at the Positive Life Series monthly. Bring your not needed HIV meds to the Positive Life Series (The first Tuesday of the Month) and give to Jeff Taylor. They are donated to an HIV Clinic in Mexico.
You don’t have to receive ALL emails from lkaps.org. You can choose which ones you would like by updating your email preferences. You can also update your phone number and your birthdate along with wether you would like to be included in the directory. There is always a link at the bottom of every email.
Submit to the Newsletter
Anyone is welcome to submit ideas, stories, photos and videos related to social connection, education, and advocacy for people aging with HIV to our monthly newsletter. Please send to news@lkaps.org by the 25th for inclusion in the following month’s newsletter.
Support LKAPS
Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs sponsors inclusive social activities for people deeply affected by HIV. We are all races, genders, HIV+ and HIV-. Some of our members are outgoing, others are introverted or have been isolated. There are no requirements about participation, we encourage you to come out and meet us.
