Fred, one of Chicago's favorite four-legged supporters of the annual Ride For AIDS Chicago, is ready to be a big part of the 2014 event.
Team Fred, with its furry mascot, is aiming to raising $100,000 for the Test Positive Aware Network ( TPAN ) in 2014, Fred said through his owner/dad, Robert Garofalo.
The 2013 Ride, held in mid-July, featured two teams ( Team Cheetah and Team CUR ) that each raised more than $100,000.
Fred will accompany Garofalo on the 2014 Ride.
"My dad is kind of a nut when it comes to the Ride," Fred said. "Much like the magic he says I brought into his life, the Ride has been part of his own healing process in dealing with his HIV [status]. Team Fred is our way of combining the excitement we have for our charitable work with the amazing work that TPAN does for our community. There is such a diverse group of people doing the Ride For AIDS Chicago, [including] women, men, straight, gay, old, young, etc.
"Why not add a cute pup to the mix."
Fred said, with a little help from Garofalo, that Team Fred will support the work that TPAN does for those affected by HIV. "In line with the mission of Fred Says we would like to work with TPAN to highlight the work and services they provide to young people and hopefully produce some co-branded public service announcements that shed light on issues related to adolescent HIV, including access to care and stigma."
Fred claims his work in the HIV field is, at times, exhausting. Still, he added, "It's kind of cool being part of something that is both creative and meaningful. It's like being one of those Calvin Klein billboard models, except [focused] on a good cause and not underwear."
Fred appeared unexpectedly to Garofalo at the closing ceremony to the 2013 RideGarofalo cried when he saw Fred.
"I was so proud of him and of all the riders," Fred said. "My favorite part [of the closing ceremony was] being part of the Poz Peddlers procession, with the rider-less bike honoring those who have lost their lives [from] HIV/AIDS. I know that it was a big step for my Dad to be so public and be part of that."
Fred said the best part of his job with Fred Says is "knowing I can help make a difference in the lives of young people living with HIV; that is just fantastic. I hate the stigma [surrounding HIV/AIDS], mainly because I think everyone deserves the same love and support that my dad gives me and that I give him. Stigma blocks that and it isn't right. Unconditional love is what we pups bring to the table."
Fred Says is hosting a launch party for the inaugural 'Men of Fred' calendar on Oct. 29, starting at 7 p.m., at Room Service in Andersonville. Complimentary wine and food will be provided, and some of the modelsas well as Fredwill appear. Calendars will be available for purchase at the event. Models for the calendar include Terrence Chappell, Brandon Walt, and Richard Cordova, among others.
THE STATS
Age 2
Doghouse location Lakeview
Breed Yorkshire terrier
Weight 8 pounds
Favorite toy "Anything bigger than me that I can pick up. I have an obsession with pigs. I have at least 20 stuffed pig toys at home."
Favorite food Chicken Chew Sticks
Job titles Philanthropist and mascot of the charity Fred Says� which raises money for HIV-positive teens
A few favorite Chicago dog friends "Brad Gerber's dog is my best bud. Darren Snow takes me on walks every day. Craig Neumann at Sidetrack gives me treats on my walks."