Gaysha Starr was the frequent host and a member of the Seattle Red Dress Party Steering Committee. Photo: Red Dress 2012 at Fremont Studios taken by Kathy Bugajsky for SGS

The Steering Committee for the Seattle Red Dress Party has just released the following statement that Seattle Red Dress is NOT happening next year:

The founders of the Seattle Red Dress Party have come to a very difficult decision regarding the future of the fundraiser. We will be retiring the fundraiser, and will not be holding another SRDP this coming February as planned.

This was a very difficult decision for our small group but we are so proud of what this community has done to raise awareness of the HIV and AIDS community. There are many reasons for the cancellation, none of which really matter in the grand scheme of things…but mainly this was a very large undertaking every year for an extremely small group of volunteers that also have full-time careers. It has been a labor of love for all of us, the majority of the team has been with the event from the very first event in the Armory down on South Lake Union (now the new home of MOHAI). We are very sad to be shutting this down, but are especially proud of last February’s fundraiser featuring Betty Who, which was our most successful to date (even with the snow!).

Over the past seven years we are proud to have raised over $250,000 through the Seattle Red Dress Party.

Effective immediately, all elements of the event will be retired, including but not limited to the brand, logo, name, website, photography and all other properties or collateral that were created for the fundraiser.

Although this is the end of the Seattle Red Dress Party…it’s most definitely not the end of the fight against HIV and AIDS. More than ever we need to be vigilant in teaching our younger generations that this disease is still something that can and should be prevented. That there are resources and organizations that can help those living with the disease. And most importantly that we embrace and take care of those around us who are effected by HIV and AIDS.

The SRDP team will undoubtedly be working together again soon on other charitable ventures in and around our community…we look forward to seeing everyone again…not necessarily in a red dress, but definitely still fabulous!

All our best,
The SRDP Steering Committee

We’re hearing rumors that some of those committee members might be planning new fundraising events under different branding. While the ending of Seattle Red Dress Party is sad, the event itself was, (in my opinion) past its prime and feeling its age. It’s time for new blood, new visions and new creativity in fundraising galas and events. The end of one era can and should lead to bigger and better things.

But, kudos to the hard work of the Seattle Red Dress Party over the years. A toast to them all!

Tags: Seattle Red Dress Party, sgsapp