Drama, love, romance and even some intrigue will be honored at the Daytime Emmys on June 20th. Aside from all the glitz, glamour and high praise, there will also be room for some goodwill. One actress being honored that evening, Heather Tom from “The Bold and the Beautiful” has teamed up with Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth to auction off her dress for HIV/AIDS charities.
The collaboration
Celebrating her Outstanding Supporting Actress nomination for her work as Katie on “The Bold and the Beautiful” (which is her 12th nod overall), Heather Tom decided to make this year really count by collaborating with Jack Mackenroth. Not only has the season four Project Runway contestant designed her gown, but the duo will also auction off the dress with the proceeds going to amfAR, National Association of People with AIDS and San Antonio AIDS Foundation. The auction, held on ClothesOffOurBack.org, will help bring attention to National HIV Testing Day on June 27th, which is just one week after the actual Daytime Emmys.
Getting the word out
A cause close to both their hearts, Jack Mackenroth has been HIV positive for 17 years, and Heather Tom has been involved with HIV/AIDS charities since she began working on soaps in 1991.
“We both wanted to make this more than just an evening gown – we wanted to make a statement,” explained Tom in the press release. “The proceeds go to three charities – amfAR, for doing all of the life saving research, the
National Association of People with AIDS, for making testing a priority in people’s lives, and the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, for their one-of-a-kind client services for people living with HIV/AIDS in this country.”
In their quest to raise awareness, they both urge everyone to get tested. As Tom stated, “This disease is not over yet. Too many people avoid getting tested and taking care of themselves due to fear.” Mackenroth agrees, “Testing is a big step, but a simple one that could save your life.”
Bid on this dress
To bid on Heather’s dress, you can go to ClothesOffOurBack.org immediately after the Daytime Emmys (which will air on ABC from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) for your chance to own a Mackenroth original. You can also go to HeatherTom.net or JackMackenroth.com for more information.
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