The 'Red Dress' event started as a promise kept by a gay male couple after they received HIV diagnoses. They each promised to wear red at their funerals instead of typical black attire, usually worn at funerals, in order to bring attention to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States.

SAN has been part of the Red Dress Party in Spokane for over a decade. SAN is excited to be hosting this year's Red Dress again at nYne Bar & Bistro.

About SAN:

SAN began as an informal network of friends, medical caregivers, and concerned citizens in 1985. Dr. Jeff Collins, Dr. Dan Coulston, and Tom Crowe of the Spokane County Health District met to discuss creating an AIDS support group which would include Community Mental Health, Department of Social and Health Services, members of the gay community, and other volunteers to coordinate services for people with AIDS.

Today, SAN still provides services and support for the HIV & and the greater LGBTQ community. These services include Peer Navigation, SAN Market Pantry, emergency support, peer/social support groups, community events, HIV prevention & education and holiday bags.

SAN Red Dress Party 2026

Go RED for SAN

Team Members