Early giving has begun! We have the knowledge and tools to End HIV in Minnesota, but we can’t do it without you.
We hope you’ll consider a donation of $5, $50, $250, or more this November to support folks living with HIV and prevent new transmissions!
Our goal this year is to raise $18,000 for essential HIV services here in MN.
Donation today with the button below and you can help more members like Miss B!
Miss B has been a cherished part of The Aliveness Project community for as long as anyone can remember. She is truly the princess of Aliveness. Miss B is a vibrant transwoman who has been living with HIV for over 33 years, with a personality that lights up every room she enters. Whether it’s her bold, star-studded outfits, complete with color-coordinated accessories and sparkly eyebrows, or her infectious laughter that you can hear from a mile away, Miss B brings joy wherever she goes.
Miss B first heard about The Aliveness Project back in 1984, before its official opening, through flyers hanging at the Basilica and St. Stephen’s Church (now Agate). She’s seen and experienced a lot in her life—having lived in cities like San Francisco, Milwaukee, and Chicago—but she insists that there’s no place like Minneapolis. “Minneapolis is the place where you can start over,” she says. “We’re the best state that gives out help. We’re number one at doing it.”
Earlier this year, Miss B faced a stressful situation when she received notice that she had to move out of her apartment by the end of July. She reached out to the Aliveness Project’s walk-in clinic in June, and that’s when her journey with the housing team began. It quickly became clear that Miss B needed extra support to live independently and safely. That’s when the team at Aliveness stepped in to expedite the process and help her find a new home.
The team took Miss B on a tour of Grace House, a beautiful Clare Housing residence not too far from Aliveness, where she could receive on-site care and services. The moment she stepped inside, she knew it was the right place for her. The house, which offers communal living with 24-hour staff, prepared meals, and housekeeping services, seemed like a dream come true.
Moving day was a big one for Miss B and the Aliveness housing team. Our staff Michelle, Nik, Bill, and even Michelle’s kids pitched in to help her transition to her new home. “Bill did A LOT of work. He was really, really sweaty,” Miss B recalls with a laugh. “Nik was doing a lot too.” It was a team effort, and Miss B felt every bit of their care and support.
Now settled in her new place, Miss B has three housemates and a caring staff who assist her with medication and keeping her home clean. “We have pep talks and stuff,” she says, reflecting on the warm and supportive environment she’s found at Grace House.
Despite the challenges she’s faced, Miss B’s spirit remains unbreakable. She’s grateful for the help she’s received from The Aliveness Project and proud to be part of a community that’s always there for her. “I was worried about being out of my place, but I got out thanks to The Aliveness Project,” she says with a smile. Miss B’s story is a testament to her resilience, her zest for life, and the unwavering support she’s found in her Aliveness family.This Give to the Max Day on November 21, we invite you to support The Aliveness Project and help us continue providing critical services to community members like Miss B. Your generous contribution ensures that we can keep offering housing support, healthcare, and a loving community to those who need it most. Join us in making a difference. Donate today and be a part of Miss B’s journey and many others like hers.
