SAN DIEGO – To support of the work of Being Alive, a local HIV/AIDS service provider, Integrité Salon will present a fashion show tonight at Rich’s called "Existing with Dynamic Virtue."

The event, which is being organized by staff of the salon, will include a fashion show, food reception, and a special performance by FLAVA.

Being Alive works to enrich and enhance the personal dignity and quality of life of people living with AIDS and HIV through mutual support, access to information, public advocacy and social interaction. Founded in 1989 with a client list of just six individuals, the organization says it has grown to serve over 3,000 people.

Shannon Wagner, executive director of Being Alive, says that her organization does whatever it can to serve the rising number of clients that seek its services each day, even though funding for HIV/AIDS services continues to be cut.

Noting a 33% increase in clients seeking services this year, Wagner said, “AIDS is not a chronic disease for us to manage. It remains a fight for dignity and for basic human rights: shelter, health care, and the pursuit of a better life. We must fight on and renew our promise to do more.”

Guests at tonight’s event will see fashions by local boutiques such as Stile Italiano, pure, and others and be able to sample food provided by The Range, Wet Wille’s and The Boathouse. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The event will begin at 7 pm, with the show starting at 8:30 pm.

To further support the work of Being Alive, the organization kicked-off a “Ribbons of Hope” campaign last week. The project will allow community members to make a small donation to the organization while dining or shopping at local restaurants, coffee shops and stores.

While at a participating location, customers will be asked if they would like to make a $1 or $5 donation to purchase a red ribbon in support of Being Alive. Upon donating, customers will be able to write a message of remembrance and hope on the ribbon which will be displayed at the business through the month of December.

Participating locations include: Urban Mo’s, Baja Betty’s, Gossip Grill, Urban Body, ManKind, Pleasures and Treasures, Priority Pharmacy, The Postal Place, Bo’s SeaFood, Revivals, Fat Boys Deli, The Pet Place, Marie’s Café, San Diego Deserts and Bistro, Marcella Junes Coffee House and at Being Alive.

Wagner says that additional locations are being added and those interested should keep an eye for the ribbons when visiting local establishments.

Rich’s is located at 1051 University Ave. in Hillcrest. For more information about tonight’s show, call (619) 297-0670.

For more information about Being Alive click HERE or call (619) 291-1400.