Lexington, KY, August 22, 2025
News Summary
AVOL Kentucky’s Dining Out for Life fundraiser is happening on September 18, featuring over 60 local restaurants donating 25% of their sales to support vital HIV/AIDS services. With an increased fundraising goal of $130,000, the event aims to help 1,200 to 1,500 individuals annually in Lexington. This year’s event marks the highest participation since its inception in 2009.
Lexington, KY – AVOL Kentucky, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting HIV/AIDS, is set to host its annual Dining Out for Life fundraiser on September 18. The event will see over 60 local restaurants participating by donating a minimum of 25% of their sales to support AVOL’s key initiatives.
The timing of this year’s fundraiser is particularly significant due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding federal funding for HIV and AIDS testing as well as support services. Earlier this year, AVOL announced a possible loss of $200,000 from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funding. However, in mid-July, the organization revealed that its funding would be reinstated for one year starting on October 1, providing some relief in their financial planning.
Despite this positive development, AVOL’s Executive Director emphasized the absence of long-term funding commitments from the federal level, underlining a persistent funding gap. As a response to these challenges, the fundraising goal for the Dining Out for Life event has been increased to $130,000, surpassing the typical goal of $100,000-$115,000.
The funds raised during this event are vital, as they support essential services for approximately 1,200 to 1,500 individuals each year, including testing, prevention, outreach, housing, and other critical support. Residents can contribute by dining at participating restaurants, which may offer donations based on specific menu items, all-day sales, or even include drinks and gift cards in their contributions.
This year marks a milestone for the fundraising initiative, with the largest number of participating restaurants in its history since it began locally in 2009. Past proceeds from the event have helped provide education, HIV testing, access to medical care, and permanent housing for individuals affected by AIDS.
The event serves a dual purpose, allowing community members to come together to enjoy meals while simultaneously supporting vital HIV services. To learn more about the participating restaurants and how contributions will be made, community members are encouraged to visit the official website at diningoutforlife.com/city/bluegrass.
AVOL Kentucky’s Mission and Impact
AVOL Kentucky’s mission revolves around combating HIV/AIDS through education, prevention, and support services. With the recent uncertainties in funding, the organization is looking to solidify community involvement through events like Dining Out for Life. The collective effort not only raises essential funds but also heightens awareness of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.
Event Details and Participation
Residents keen to contribute to the cause by dining out can easily find participating restaurants in Lexington. The organizer’s goal is to unite the community in support of important HIV services while enjoying local culinary offerings. Restaurants are encouraged to promote their contributions on social media platforms to maximize engagement and visibility.
Final Thoughts
Dining Out for Life stands as a testament to the Lexington community’s commitment toward addressing HIV/AIDS, exemplifying solidarity and compassion for those affected by the disease.
FAQ Section
What is Dining Out for Life?
Dining Out for Life is an annual fundraising event where participating restaurants donate a portion of their sales to support HIV/AIDS services provided by AVOL Kentucky.
When is the event taking place?
The event will be held on September 18.
How much will restaurants donate?
Participating restaurants will donate a minimum of 25% of their sales to AVOL Kentucky.
What services will the funds support?
The funds raised will support testing, prevention, outreach, housing, and other essential services for approximately 1,200 to 1,500 individuals each year.
How can I participate?
You can participate by dining at one of the participating restaurants on September 18 or by donating directly to AVOL Kentucky.
Key Features of Dining Out for Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 18 |
| Participating Restaurants | Over 60 restaurants |
| Donation Percentage | A minimum of 25% of sales |
| Fundraising Goal | $130,000 |
| Number of Individuals Served | 1,200 to 1,500 annually |
| Year Established | 2009 |
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Dining Out for Life Event
- Wikipedia: HIV/AIDS
- Spectrum News 1: HIV Awareness Event
- Google Search: Dining Out for Life
- LEX18: AVOL’s Dining Out for Life
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nonprofit Organization
- Southern Living: Best Locally Owned Restaurants
- Google News: AVOL Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
