FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Lluvia Peveto,
Development Director, Project Lazarus
Cell: (225) 615-6840
lpeveto@projectlazarus.net
Project Lazarus Celebrates Annual Bon Appétit Event Raising Over $46,000 in Critical Funds
New Orleans, LA – Sept. 22, 2025 — Project Lazarus hosted its highly-anticipated 18th annual Bon Appétit fundraiser on Saturday, September 13, culminating in a dazzling Dessert & Champagne Afterparty at the Audubon Aquarium. Chaired by Tony Leggio and organized by the Project Lazarus development committee, board and leadership, the event was a resounding success, raising $46,657.00 in critical funds for the organization’s mission and programming.
The event kicked off with a unique series of seven progressive dinner parties, hosted across the city from Friday, Sept. 12, to Saturday, Sept. 13, by the nonprofit’s supporters. Dinner hosts included Fletcher Jernigan, Nick Daigle, Lance Hebert, Danny Post, Jerry Fredieu, and Falon Brown; Daniel Robbins and Jeffrey Wickwier; Libby Bowles and Meredith Smith; Chad Graci, Collin Magee and Louis David; Chris Sellers and Tommy Servantez; Romy Thompson and Rachel Hoag; and Cary Oswald and Black Tie Club New Orleans.
Held at the Audubon Aquarium, the afterparty reception featured a wide range of entertainment and culinary experiences. Guests were greeted at the entrance by Bryan Shurigar, as a costumed merman seated in an oversized clam shell, provided by Mardi Gras Productions, Inc. Table and scenery designs created by Jason Allen, and appearances were made by the Merry Antoinettes, who delighted attendees with charm and banter.
The dessert menu was provided by several well-known local vendors, including: Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans, Dakar, Boucherie and Kathy Capagna. DJ Paul Lakeway kept the energy high and supported standout drag performances from Vanessa Carr Kennedy and Vantasia Divine. The traditional silent auction rounded out the evening, featuring original artwork, luxury services, and exclusive gift certificates, and more.
Project Lazarus continues to be a vital resource for at-risk individuals living with HIV in the Greater New Orleans area, and the Bon Appétit event stands as a shining example of the community’s engagement and generosity. To learn more or become involved, please visit www.projectlazarus.net.
About Project Lazarus
Project Lazarus is a New Orleans-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk individuals living with HIV through housing, healthcare, and comprehensive social services. Since its founding in 1985, Project Lazarus has provided transitional and supportive housing, access to critical medical and wellness programs, and opportunities for community engagement. Committed to improving health outcomes and promoting stability, Project Lazarus empowers residents to lead healthier, more independent lives to create a healthier Greater New Orleans area.
Media Contact:
Lluvia Peveto,
Development Director, Project Lazarus
Cell: (225) 615-6840
lpeveto@projectlazarus.net