AIDS Care Ocean State Annual Mardi Gras Gala 2026

AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) is hosting our Annual Mardi Gras Gala on Friday, February 13th at the historic Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston. This celebration will commemorate ACOS service, dedication, and achievements, in addition to, recognizing the people who have lent to the success of the organization throughout the year.

2x Winner of RI Best Local Stand-up Comic, Doreen Collins is your emcee and the evening will include a cocktail hour at 7pm, live entertainment from Ten31 Productions, music and lights by Sound Stream Entertainment, magic by Magician Drew Michaels, a serenade from the RI Gay Men’s Chorus, comedy, dancing, traditional Mardi Gras dinner starting at 8pm and a brief awards ceremony. During the awards portion of the Gala we will present the Paul Fitzgerald Lifetime Achievement Award to Director of the HIV, Provision of Care & Special Populations, Paul Loberti, Community Service Award to dedicated volunteer Kenny Sondler, and the Philanthropist of the Year Award to Sir Thomas Matt.

For more than 35 years, ACOS has provided case management, housing resources, mental health services, HIV prevention education, harm reduction, outreach and advocacy for those at risk of and/or effected by HIV/AIDS in the state.