Human Dignity Foundation Ivy Rooney

Please tell us about yourself. Who you are, how long have you been involved with the Human Dignity Foundation (HDF) and the reasons for getting involved?

My name is Ivy Rooney, I’m native of San Diego of Mexican decent. I’m married, have 4 kids and have been working in the HIV pharmacy since 1991, a year after graduating from high school.  That’s how I first got involved in the LGBTQIA+ community. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to advocate for patients, because back then, things were not so easy & those experiences were life changing. As an ally, getting involved with the foundation was, for me, just another way to continue to serve the community. I really wanted to get involved in HIV FUNDING COLLABORATIVE, a program of the foundation in collaboration with the RDP. I’ve had the opportunity to see first-hand the need that still exists for organizations that serve the HIV community. 

What is the importance of HDF to the community?

The importance is legacy, remembering people, making sure that we don’t forget the contributions