History

The Jerôme Beillard Festival for Life is SAAF's second-largest community fundraising event. All proceeds from this event stay 100% local and help to fund SAAF's vital programs and services. 2007 marks the 19th Anniversary for Festival for Life!

This event was started in 1988 by Robert Markley (Markley Salon, Tucson) and Jerôme Beillard, who was the Executive Director of People With AIDS Coalition of Tucson (PACT) — one of the organizations that later merged to become SAAF. In 1995, just before his death, the PACT Board voted to name the event in honor of Jerôme Beillard and his contributions to the community.

Over the years, the event has grown and changed, but the main attraction continues to be the collection of fine artwork on display in the live and silent auction. In addition to art, the auction features holiday items, gift baskets, gift certificates, celebrity collectibles, trips, one-of-a-kind experiences and paper prayers. Our guests recognize this great opportunity to find amazing works of art and great gifts, just as the holiday shopping season begins!

For more information about the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation, please click here .