Cafe Istanbul hosts HOPfest, a celebration with a cause
On Friday (May 20) from 8 p.m. until midnight, the New Orleans community will let the good times roll for a critical cause, as Cafe Istanbul (2372 St. Claude Ave.) hosts HOPfest NOLA 2016.
Benefiting the HIV Outpatient Program (HOP) at University Medical Center New Orleans, the annual fundraiser brings locals together to provide crucial patient support services for the program while working toward eliminating the stigma of living with HIV.
The event’s lineup features live musical performances from Earphunk and Boyfriend.
Additionally, the first 50 attendees will receive free fare from the Rollin Fatties food truck.
“This is our third year going strong! Proceeds from HOPfest go towards patient meetings and support groups, durable medical equipment, and emergency transportation,” says HOPfest organizer Dr. Kathy Jo Carstarphen, a primary care physician based in Mid-City.
“Anyone who loves good music... and impacting an important health issue would love this event.”
Dr. Kathy Jo Carstarphen, HOPfest organizer
Each year, HOPfest NOLA packs the party with about 400 revelers.
“They’re a great crowd. Let’s hope for more this year!” says Carstarphen.
The Krewe du Santé, a local nonprofit established in 2014, organizes the annual event.
“A few Tulane co-residents and I created the Krewe du Santé in order to raise money for an HIV clinic where we all enjoyed working. Our mission is to create fundraising opportunities that promote local businesses, highlight up-and-coming musicians, create awareness about a medical need, and are an overall great time,” says Carstarphen.
“Each year we reach out to a larger community of people, which is exciting. Anyone who loves good music... and impacting an important health issue, would love this event,” says Carstarphen.
The krewe eventually plans to build partnerships with other local nonprofits for future fundraising events and to assist free clinics in starting ancillary programs.
HOPfest NOLA 2016 tickets are available online.
