LAS VEGAS (Nov. 6, 2014) – Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) announced the appointment of Nikki Ferraro as the new Board of Trustees President for a two-year term after previously serving as vice president. Marek Bute, who has served for the past two years, will step into the vice president role.
After her grandmother was diagnosed with HIV, Ferraro began volunteering with AFAN more than 12 years ago, and her involvement with the organization has grown at every opportunity. As vice president, Ferraro created the agency’s psycho-social wellness group for women of all ages called “Mothers, Sisters, Daughters.” The group continues to thrive today, empowering women affected by HIV by addressing their specific needs and challenge associated with their diagnoses, while celebrating the unique aspects of womanhood. Ferraro is married to Mimmo Ferraro, executive chef of Ferraro’s, and they have two children.
“I am grateful to be a part of board made up of such inspiring leaders,” said Ferraro. “With my history in this organization, I am constantly reminded of all of the beautiful individuals who continue to fight the good fight, including my grandmother, as heroes and motivators for me and countless others who continue to support and advocate for those affected by HIV/AIDS.”
AFAN also announced Richard Hudock as new board member, filling the role previously occupied by Scott Washburn. As public relations manager at Wynn Las Vegas, Hudock oversees the communications initiatives for the resorts’ community relations and entertainment initiatives. A longtime supporter and volunteer for AFAN, he previously served as public relations manager for The Smith Center in Downtown Las Vegas.
“AFAN touches the lives of so many people from all different background and experiences,” said Hudock. “The work they do is important to the Las Vegas community, their clients and to me. I’m humbled and honored to join their mission.”
“We’ve very pleased to welcome Nikki and Richard to their new positions,” said Antioco Carrillo, executive director for AFAN. “I’m confident their passion for the cause and experience will definitely serve AFAN well. I also want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Marek Bute for his significant contribution to our success.”
 |
| Nikki Ferraro, new AFAN Board of Trustees President |
Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. This year marks AFAN’s 30th anniversary of unyielding commitment to the community, providing support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. AFAN offers consistent and comprehensive direct client service programs, including medical case management, housing and utility assistance, emergency food and transportation vouchers, prevention and education programs and community outreach. As part of AFAN’s mission, these client service programs assist in enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives. For more information, please visit afanlv.org. Keep up with AFAN events and news on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram.