Southern Country Houston, a charitable organization

Southern Country Houston has selected Camp Hope, a pediatric/teen assistance program of the AIDS Foundation of Houston, as its primary charitable beneficiary for 2008.

"In July of 1996, AFH launched Camp HOPE, the first summer camp designed specifically for children ages 7-15 with HIV/AIDS in Texas. Participants now include youth from San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Galveston, Austin, and other Texas cities as well as from other states. Since its inaugural year, the camp has expanded from a three-day summer pilot program to a full-week program that has served 1,039 participants over the last ten years". - AIDS Foundation of Houston

For more information or to submit an auction donation, contact the SoCoHo Public Relations or Activities & Fundraising chairpersons.

Press release July 20 2008: Christmas in July

Southern Country Houston Performance Team recently participated in the Annual Christmas in July at the Brazos River Bottom (BRB) July 13, 2008.  Thanks to the tireless effort of David Sawyer and Miss Alabama this event has helped to raise thousands of dollars for those living with HIV/Aids.

Directly funding PWA Holiday Charities, this event assists the Colt 45's AIDS Trouble fund which in turn will write $ 100.00 checks to each of their Trouble Fund Clients. This gracious donation allows those clients not only to receive checks in July but also in December. Originally meant for "mad money" many of the clients use these funds not only for presents for their loved ones but sometimes for utilities, medications, rent and/or food.

Southern Country Performance Team was one of almost 30 something performers. The Team worked throughout several weeks perfecting their routine and did an amazing job.  The SoCoHo Performance Team is open to all members of Southern Country Houston.  NO you do not need to be a perfect dancer. No you do not need to be a professional. All you need is the energy and drive to be part of a fun group who performs at fundraisers and assists with workshops.

Southern Country Houston would like to thank all the powers that be for allowing us to be part of this wonderful event which has lasted for almost 20 years. For more information about Southern Country Houston Performance or how you can become a member, please email the club.

Press release May 16 2008

Surrounded by family, friends and the community Southern Country Houston presented Aids Foundation Houston – Camp Hope with a check in the amount of $5100.00 Thursday, May 15, 2008 at the Brazos River Bottom.  Southern Country Houston, founded in 1991, is country/western dance non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Providing dance workshops, community service and fundraising activities - Southern Country Houston is a “leader” in the community. 

Camp Hope was selected for Southern Country Houston beneficiary for the 2007/2008 fundraising year. Aids Foundation Houston introduced Camp Hope in July 1996 as the first camp in Texas designed specifically for children ages 7 – 15 with HIV/AIDS. Since its inaugural year, the camp has expanded from a three-day summer pilot program to a full-week program that has served 1,300 kids over the last 11 years.

“Every child deserves the magic and thrill of participating in a summer camp, but unfortunately, not every child has the means or the opportunity,” said Kelly McCann, CEO of AIDS Foundation Houston. “I am very proud that AIDS Foundation Houston has been able to make that dream possible for HIV positive children not only in Texas, but across the globe.”

Camp Hope activities are designed to provide safe and beneficial life experiences for children living with HIV/AIDS and integrate medical services with health education components. The young participants at Camp Hope can experience fishing, group sports, horseback riding, biking, arts and crafts, and a talent show wherein cabin teams develop skits and musical numbers for parents, volunteers, and invited guests. In addition, campers participate in programming that provides life skills training that will benefit them long after camp is over.

Blair Fullerton, Fundraising Activities Chairman for Southern Country Houston, was pleased to announce that Camp Hope has been unanimously chosen again for the 2008/2009 fundraising year.  To kick off the new year –Mike Gomes, President for Southern Country Houston handed Marc Cohen, AFH Camp Hope Coordinator a check in the amount of $ 130.00 donated by Brazos River Bottom. Special representatives from several organizations were present to include : Texas Gay Rodeo Association, Lone Star Lariats, Colt 45’s, DREAMCATCHERS, PWA, Houston Area Bears, Imperial Court of Houston, Ms. Gay Pride, The Gill Family, Daddy of Montrose, Houston Council of Clubs, Gay Mens Chorus, Tony’s Corner Divas, National Leather Association, Empire of the Royal Sovereign Imperial Court of the Single Star, and Rainbow Ranglers.