Club DIVA
Posted by Anthony Wald on March 31st 2008 in Events
Toni Pierce, Tammy Hauser Sarto and Marnita Schroedel at the March 8th event. photo | Sophia HantzesDIVA MN is a nonprofit organization using creative programs to combat HIV/AIDS in Minnesota. For nearly 20 years DIVA MN has searched for innovative solutions to HIV/AIDS, educated people about the epidemic, and given a voice and treatment to those affected by HIV/AIDS.
DIVA’s Executive Director, Tammy Hauser Sarto, came to DIVA because “I loved the creative energy and I was invested in the mission. I saw their great history and big potential for the future.” Tammy was excited to talk about DIVA’s 17th annual fundraising event, held on March 8th at the International Market Square. Every year the event has a different theme, and this year is was Club DIVA.
Foxy Tann and the Wham Bam Thank You Ma’ams performing. photo | Sara RubensteinThe event was kicked off by two pre-events. First was a student fashion show at Minnesota Community & Technical College where awards were presented to selected students. Also, DIVA date packages were auctioned. One package included a seat at the table of Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth. Tammy explained that having Jack included in the event really helped: “Jack was great, and he really boosted our media, he is a sweetheart, he is HIV positive, and he has donated a lot of his time to being an advocate.” Another called the “The Entourage” included a night on the town with supermodel Cheryl Tiegs, limousine service and mock paparazzi. DIVA’s resourceful and imaginative fundraising tactics set them apart.
DIVA wanted the club theme to combine food, fashion and “performers from all spectrums.” Tammy wanted the audience to be “feel like they were a part of the entertainment,” the atmosphere of an actual club. She was most proud of how Club DIVA was able to embody the organization’s “edgy maverick sense of celebrating your sexuality, celebrating who you are.” She went on to describe how the event reflected the principles DIVA was founded on: “Get up and do something, this is our community, it is being plagued by HIV/AIDS, and this is your chance to stand up for this issue and get involved.”
Hedwig entertains Club DIVA. photo | Sara RubensteinA piece designed by Michelle Henry. photo | Sara Rubenstein
The swanky night reverberated with DIVA’s ability to stay fabulous without being pretentious. Beyond being an organization known for great parties and imaginative fundraising methods, DIVA remains committed to impacting HIV/AIDS in Minnesota.
Upcoming events for the organization include “The Big Sleep,” which is being hailed as the world’s biggest slumber party. The event will be held at The Graves Hotel on November 14th. To purchase tickets for this event, find out more information, or donate go to www.divamn.org.
