This fall, Dallas will introduce a new highlight to its philanthropic scene with the inaugural amfAR Dallas Gala on October 4, centered around Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed actor, writer, and director known for works like Yellowstone and Landman. Sheridan will be honored with amfAR’s Award of Inspiration in recognition of his contributions to the arts and community.
Nicole Kidman, a celebrated actress, is set to present this distinguished award to Sheridan, who recently revealed plans for a large new studio in Fort Worth in collaboration with Hillwood, led by Ross Perot Jr. Sheridan’s honor places him alongside previous recipients including Richard Gere, Ava DuVernay, and Julia Roberts.
Diana Ross to Perform, and Philanthropic Leaders Recognized
Motown icon Diana Ross will headline the gala, which will be held at the residence of Kathleen and Scott Kirby. During the event, the Gene and Jerry Jones family will receive the Philanthropic Leadership Award for their dedicated support of amfAR’s mission to combat HIV/AIDS.
Kevin Robert Frost, CEO of amfAR, expressed his gratitude, stating,
“We applaud the Dallas community for its unwavering support of amfAR’s work and for recognizing that our efforts to find a cure for HIV remain as critically important as ever.”
Context of amfAR’s Work and HIV Impact
Thanks to amfAR’s pioneering research, effective HIV treatments have transformed the disease into a manageable condition. Nevertheless, nearly 10 million people worldwide lack access to these vital medications, including over 600,000 children. In the United States, Southern states bear a disproportionate burden, representing almost half of all new HIV diagnoses annually.
Dallas has a strong history of supporting amfAR projects, particularly through the leadership of Cindy and Howard Rachofsky, whose annual TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art gala generated more than $65 million before concluding last year. With amfAR Dallas joining the foundation’s prestigious international gala circuit alongside cities like Salzburg, Venice, and London, the city strengthens its role in advancing this critical cause.
amfAR’s Legacy and the Future Impact of the Dallas Gala
Since its establishment in 1985, amfAR has raised almost $950 million and awarded over 3,800 research grants worldwide. The proceeds from the Dallas gala will support ongoing efforts to discover a cure and improve treatments for HIV/AIDS. The event not only spotlights important advocacy but also underscores Dallas’s growing prominence as a hub for philanthropic leadership and community engagement.
