The idea on how to conduct a «Dating Party» for people living with HIV came to us at one of the coordination meetings when we were preparing for the “Love is Beautiful, If It Is Safe!” Event within the scope of the “Care and Support Program…”, which we were planning to hold in the run-up to February 14th. It was when the idea struck us to amuse our HIV-positive clients and to organize an event for them.
The date of February 18th was chosen; and now we were facing a stage of a through preparation to the event, as we did not have much time! It was necessary that we design a detailed script of the event, choose prizes, post an advertisement of the event, and invite guests! Anyway, the responsibilities were distributed, and our work began! Someone was in charge of decorating office at 2nd Zheleznodorozhnaya, cut out paper hearts and stars, and ornament the reception hall with balloons and garlends.
The announcement of the event was posted at friendly sites and forums, told about at peer support group meetings conducted within the scope of the “Care and Support…” program; NGOs and AIDS-Service organizations were e-mailed about the upcoming event. People called us up daily at the “Hot line support on HIV\AIDS” to get a detailed information on the event, and they came to the ICC “Steps” to get invitations!
Finally, more than 30 people came to the event, which took place on February 18th at our new office at 9, 2nd Zheleznodorozhnaya street.
The ”Dating Party for PLHIV” started with the Funny “Getting To Know Each Other” Part and Ice breakers to overcome complexes and fears, which arouse when you meet a stranger. The key intrigue of the event was a “Love At First Sight” Game, in which 3 guys and 3 girls participated. During the game, the participants were asked to answer questions about each other, make up facetious self-characteristics and say them aloud, answer funny questions asked by the host, and, finally, chose a partner. Eventually, one couple won a prize – 2 tickets to “Barguzin” cinema. The programs psychologist arranged work with metaphorical and associative cards.
The guests were invited to visit the “Oracle” – C&SP psychologist, S.S. Bykova, who initiated work with the metaphorical and associative cards. The participants were very enthusiastic about the counseling session given by the “Oracle”, asked questions, and made follow-up appointments with her!

At the end of the event, there was a tea party with the sweets brought by the guests, at which they had an opportunity of an informal communication with each other.
The organizers of the event gave heart-shaped balloons and small presents to all of the guests.

Dear friends, we hope that you enjoyed the party!