Image

6:22 PM / Thursday March 28, 2024

10 Nov 2017

Spreading Hope

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
November 10, 2017 Category: Local Posted by:

ABOVE PHOTO:  A scene from last year’s Gala  (Photo courtesy: Bebashi)

 

Bebashi: Transition To Hope continues to help meet the physical and spiritual needs of low income communities.

 

By Denise Clay

When Bebashi began its mission of helping people of color negotiate the medical, social service and spiritual process of living with HIV/AIDS for communities of color and the underserved 32 years ago, it didn’t have its own office.

Gary Bell, Executive Director, Bebashi

Now, it not only has an office, but it also has an expanded mission that allows it to help the community with everything from access to healthcare to counseling services.

Bebashi is celebrating 32 years of service to the community. Under the leadership of Executive Director Gary Bell, the organization located on Spring Garden Street is bringing important benefits to the community, said Brenda Alexander, a spokesperson for the organization.

“We’re a full-service health and education agency,” she said.

For many people, Bebashi has been a lifeline to help them deal with an HIV diagnosis and get the medications needed to treat it.

But one of the ways in which the organization is branching out is by publicizing one of the things has always done: helping those in the transgender community, Alexander said.

With specialized health services and a wardrobe filled with things that those in transition need to live their truth, these services were motivated by the present day, Alexander said.

“In the current political climate, it was a demand from the community,” Alexander said. “People needed a supportive environment.”

While it still focuses on sexual health issues, Bebashi has also started a free clinic for the community at large. Doctors volunteering their time provide medical care for anyone needing anything ranging from flu shots to breast cancer screenings, Alexander said.

Among the ways the organization finances this mission is through the organization’s annual gala, which is being held at the Hilton on City Line Avenue on Friday, Dec. 8. Hosted by CBS3 Morning Show anchor Rahel Solomon and featuring entertainment from Award-winning songstress Kelly Price and legendary Philadelphia DJ Gary O, the Now More Than Ever gala promises a break from the norm, Alexander said.

“We’re excited about it,” Alexander said. “It’s not just a normal awards show. We like to have fun.”

In addition to a sumptuous meal and great entertainment, Bebashi will be honoring those who help the organization fulfill its mission. This year’s honorees include Traci Nickens, the longest tenured member of the organization’s board; Francis Byron, owner of Girard Avenue Pharmacy; Jeffrey Sotland, owner of the Gayborhood bar, Tabu, and CBS3’s Ukee Washington, who will be getting the John Allen Blue Award.

Bebashi visited CBS Studios in Philadelphia recently to chat with legendary anchor Ukee Washington on being honored at our upcoming gala and what the John Allen Blue Award means to him.
Photo courtesy: Bebashi

The award is named for the first person helped by the organization, and it’s a chance to connect with old friends, Alexander said.

“[John Allen Blue’s] family comes every year,” she said. “It’s a chance for us to honor those who support us and support the community.”

There will also be a silent auction featuring a trip to Cancun, Mexico, gift cards and other fabulous items.

Tickets for the Bebashi Now More Than Ever Gala are $150 and can be purchased by going to the organization’s website, Bebashi.org. You can also call 215-769-3561 for tickets and more information.

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Leave a Comment

Recent News

Philly NAACP

March 24, 2024

March 17, 2024

Tweet Email Tweet Email Related Posts Philadelphia Judicial Primary Candidates At A Glance Guide Philadelphia Judicial Candidates...

Commentary

cj speaks…The call to order

March 23, 2024

Tweet Email Philadelphia’s recent travesties continue to be highlighted in the news: the ongoing shooting incidents, train...

Health

Combatting loneliness in older adults

March 17, 2024

Tweet Email FAMILY FEATURES The bonds found in friendships and other relationships are an important factor in...

Home and Garden

So, You want to build a retaining wall: 6 things to know before you start

March 3, 2024

Tweet Email BPT When you want to enhance your outdoor living space, consider building with retaining wall...

Fur Babies Rule!

Dog grooming advice to keep pets clean and healthy

March 2, 2024

Tweet Email FAMILY FEATURESRegular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best, but...

Seniors

‘Soaring’ over hills or ‘playing’ with puppies, study finds seniors enjoy virtual reality

February 23, 2024

Tweet Email By Terry Spencerassociated press POMPANO BEACH, Fla. — Retired Army Col. Farrell Patrick taught computer...

The Philadelphia Sunday Sun Staff