and general information can be ob-
tained by calling their toll-free number
1-800-639-3316 or 453-5518 which is
also the FAX number. The organiza-
tion’s first goal is to establish a home
base in Middlebury.

Fred and Diana realize that they have
their work cut out for them. The or-
ganization is incorporated. The found-
ing board of directors still has some
vacancies, and interested people are
invited to make enquiries. A pre-
liminary network of caregivers has
been established throughout the state
with a reputation for their approach to
wellness both physical and spiritual
and who presently include people with
HIV/AIDS in their practice. Enquiries
from practitioners who would like to
participate are welcome

Fred and Diana stress that they will
not be in competition with such es-
tablished AIDS service organizations
as Vermont C.A.R.E.S. or the Brat-
tleboro AIDS Project in terms of the
kinds of services they intend to offer.
The particular niche thatFRIENDS will
fill is not presently filled by existing
organizations. They also do not envi-
sion applying for money from state or
federal governments.

What’s next on the agenda? Fund-
raising and the development of a corps
of volunteers, both of which are basic
items. Projected start-up costs are $75-
80K for 1993, and a figure of $150K
for 1994. These figures include money

October 1993

   

to refurbish quarters in Middlebury,
and to purchase a van to transport peo-
ple to and from meetings, events and
medical appointments.

The fundraising is already on track.
Based on a New York model, Fred and
Diana have scheduled The Night of a
Thousand Friends for Friday, October
29. Invitations will be sent to a party at
Shelburne Farms with a minimum do-
nation of $50 per person or $75 per
couple. If these amounts are beyond
your budget, then you can structure a
party in your own home, invite friends
to come, and ask them to contribute at
least $10 per person. FRIENDS will
even provide the invitations for you to
send. Since it is Halloween weekend, it
won’t be hard to think of a party theme.

Fred and Diana are genuinely pleased
with the response so far to FRIENDS
VERMONT. From professional people
engaged in wellness and spiritual
awareness to the catering firm sup-
plying food for the opening fundraiser
and the generosity of Shelburne Farms
itself, the reactions have been over-
whelmingly understanding and helpful.
Both Fred and Diana feel that this is a
dream come true. They have spent
much time and effort throughout this
year bringing their dream to reality, and
they beam with quiet pride that their
work is already paying off, that a fami-
ly of friends is gathering to give them
support and help as they go about help-
ing others. ‘V

 

32 N. Champlain St. Burlington VT. 05401
802/864 - 7198 ° FAX 802/658 - 1556

Aiméc S. Green

 

WAT5‘l800l 3%!)
FAX (802! 865-2137

VIRGINIA TALBOT
Account Executive

0.
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC.
Seven Burlington Square, Burlington, VT05401
(802) 863-7728

if

(802) 660-9238

15