A Journey of Service, Compassion, and Support
AIN's Legacy of Hope and Care
Discover the milestones and achievements that have defined AIDS Interfaith Network’s mission since 1986.
Our Timeline
Key moments that shaped AIN’s journey and impact.
1981
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1986
Founding of AIN
AIDS Interfaith Network (AIN) was established to enlighten the faith community about HIV/AIDS and to foster a more compassionate and understanding response for those affected.
Rev. Charles Carnahan
First Executive Director
1988 - 1990
AIN Grows Stronger
AIN became an incorporated 501(C)3 multicultural nonprofit organization.
AIN Expands
AIN expanded to serve more diverse populations by creating Manos Unidas and the African American Health Coalition.
First Community Outreach Program
AIN proudly initiated our groundbreaking outreach programs, focusing on HIV/AIDS education and prevention, comprehensive health education, and dedicated client advocacy. Our mission was to empower the community with knowledge and to dismantle the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
Volunteer Action Award
1992
Relocation
Michael Konow stepped into the role of the second Executive Director of AIN. We were excited to announce our relocation to 1005 W. Jefferson Boulevard. We also opened a satellite office at 4300 MacArthur, conveniently situated in the same building as AIDS Arms and Oak Lawn Community Services.
Michael Konow
Second Executive Director
1994 - 1997
Summer Heatwave
Sabrina Smith, a dedicated reporter for NBC5, once volunteered with AIN’s Care Team. After the heartbreaking loss of her client, Tom, to AIDS-related complications, she was inspired to honor his memory by launching a fundraiser. This heartfelt initiative blossomed into the Summer Heatwave, a cherished annual event that continued for nine remarkable years.
Crystal Hope Award
The Crystal Hope Awards began its remarkable journey with a memorable Evening of Hope, and in 1995, it joyfully extended its reach to the dynamic city of Fort Worth.
Third Executive Director
In 1997, Sheryl Evans took the helm as AIN’s third Executive Director. The decision was made to close the MacArthur office, streamlining all programs to our Jefferson Boulevard location for greater efficiency and focus.
1999 - 2003
1999
In 1999, Steven Pace took the reins as AIN’s fourth Executive Director, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for service. His impressive background included roles as the director of HIV Services for a prominent HIV/AIDS organization and as the director of Social Work for an HIV/AIDS service provider. Steven’s expertise extended to direct Social Work, Casework, and counseling, making him a valued leader in our mission.
In a significant move, AIN evolved into a comprehensive service organization by integrating seven vital programs acquired after the closure of Oak Lawn Community Services. This strategic expansion included Transportation Services, the Daire Center, Meals and Nutrition, Case Management, and the Buddy Project. By embracing these essential services, we were able to ensure the continuation of programs that are crucial to our community and would have otherwise been lost.
2000
In 2000, AIN enthusiastically launched DART passes for our Clients, providing them with seamless access to their medical appointments and enhancing their journey to health.
2001 - 2003
In 2001, AIN made a significant move to 501 N. Stemmons Freeway, uniting all programs under one roof for enhanced collaboration and efficiency. By 2003, the Summer Heatwave event found its new home at the iconic Union Station, marking a new chapter in our journey.
Steven Pace
Fourth Executive Director
2009-2013
Bloomin' Ball
AIN’s Bloomin’ Ball fundraiser originated in 2009 at the Westin Park Central and made its exciting move to the Anatole in 2011.
The Great Gatsby
The 2012 Great Gatsby event was initiated as a dazzling soirée where the champagne flowed like jazz and every moment sparkled with the essence of the Roaring Twenties!
Relocation
In 2013 AIN moved to 2707 S. Stemmons and soon after began the Ventanilla de Salud outreach initiative at The Mexican Consulate.
2016-2018
2016
For three decades, AIN had been a steadfast ally to Clients and communities across North Texas. While our services had adapted and expanded over the years, our core mission remained unchanged: to inspire Hope and ultimately Help for a world free from HIV/AIDS.
2018
AIN became Access and Information Network and relocated to our new and current address at 2600 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 151. In tandem with this change, the Daire Center also made its move to 2600 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 161.
2019-2020
New Affiliation
AIN affiliates with AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) in 2019.
Art+Fashion+Community
Our 2019 Fall event, Art+Fashion+Community, was truly unforgettable, bringing creativity to life in the vibrant Design District at the Samuel Lynne Galleries.
New Clinic and Pharmacy
In 2020, we took a significant step forward in our commitment to our Clients by launching the new AHF Clinic and Pharmacy adjacent to our location. This exciting expansion not only broadens our range of services but also provides our Clients with convenient access to all-encompassing healthcare solutions, all under one roof.
2023-2024
2023
After a COVID hiatus of 4 years, we were excited to bring back everyone’s favorite fundraiser, Bloomin Ball, held on September 23rd at the Renaissance Hotel.
After an extraordinary 24 years of unparalleled leadership, Steven Pace retired as the Executive Director of AIN. As we embark on this new chapter, we take a moment to honor the profound impact he made and the lives he transformed through his unwavering dedication to our mission. Steven’s visionary guidance laid the foundation for a future brimming with hope and resilience. We celebrate his remarkable legacy and eagerly anticipate the next phase of AIN’s journey, where we will continue to build on the strong principles he instilled in us!
2024
On April 1, 2024, AIN welcomed an inspiring new leader, as Yolanda Jones stepped into the role of Executive Director. Yolanda joins us from AIDS Services of Dallas, where she excelled in providing innovative leadership in housing and support services for low-income and homeless individuals and families impacted by HIV/AIDS. We are excited about the bright future ahead with Yolanda guiding AIN!
Yolanda Jones
Fifth Executive Director
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