Bay Area Reporter - November 15, 2007
Kris Larson

Locke, 29, who was on the hit television show in 2003, performed some of her signature songs last week, and closed with a unique interpretation of "Under the Rainbow."

Under One Roof is an organization that has been raising money for HIV/AIDS organizations since 1990. It began as a seasonal store on Market Street, donating the profits from gift sales to AIDS service organizations. Under One Roof has since expanded to a year-round store, located on Castro Street, which donates 100 percent of its net proceeds to local nonprofits. Over the last fiscal year, the agency donated more than $100,000 to 30 HIV/AIDS organizations.

The November 9 fundraiser included a live and a silent auction, offering such items as a trip to Iceland and tickets to Giants games.

"We have a lot of exciting packages," said general manager Mark Burns, who joked that "in San Francisco, there's nothing so exciting as a good package!"

Called Sparkle SF, the event featured 13 vintners pouring sparkling wines, including Veuve Clicquot, Iron Horse Vineyards, Langlois Chateau, and Mollydooker.

At press time, an agency spokesman said he did not have an estimate for the amount of money raised at the event.

Burns is in his 25th year of living with HIV, and his 11th year living with AIDS. He was recently hired to be the general manager of Under One Roof, and is enthusiastic about his new position, telling reporters "these guys are so phenomenal to work for!"

Locke received the agency's Red Ribbon Award prior to her performance.

"The Red Ribbon Award is done for someone in the community that advocates AIDS awareness, and especially HIV awareness," said press liaison Chris Prouty. "They want to pinpoint one specific person and get the community involved in the accolades and a congratulatory celebration."

Locke received the award for her work with Camp Heartland, a nonprofit that provides a summer camp experience for children living with HIV/AIDS, among other things. Locke's first exposure to working with children living with HIV/AIDS was through her work with the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, which sent her on an 11-day trip through Africa.

"My mother told me it's important to give back," Locke said. "It was a life-changing experience for me."

Since then, Locke also worked with YouthAIDS and the Davy Foundation before getting involved with Camp Heartland.

"All the kids [at Camp Heartland] have a great story, and that's what I've chosen to be a part of," Locke said at a news conference prior to her performance. "It's the old cliche: kids are our future."

As reported last week, Under One Roof is opening a special store in time for the holidays. The store, at 2278 Market Street, will feature Santas and elves, and a giving tree. Visitors will be invited to customize an ornament for the tree in memory of loved ones they have lost. The center will also feature vocal performances on weekend afternoons. Details will be posted at www.underoneroof.org.

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