About AIDS

Since 1989, Project Transitions has operated a small residential hospice for those dying of AIDS, brimming with TLC and support rather than the rejection and need that is so common in this epidemic. Today, that facility is called Doug's House, named for Doug Key, an early leader in the struggle against the disease that would ultimately claim his life, too. Although AIDS deaths have declined, the need for hospice care is still pressing, as their 93% occupancy rate confirms.

The original house was never large enough, nor was it built to be a hospice. Somehow, the staff and volunteers always managed to make do, and their warmth and kindness kept Doug's House a welcoming and comfortable place, as thousands of surviving friends and families can attest.

I felt a twinge of nostalgia on my last visit, knowing the present building would soon disappear. Then, last Saturday we were driving down their north-central street, and wow! The old house was gone, and another simple, attractive structure was already nearing exterior completion, thanks to Main Street Homes.

Main Street is Central Texas' largest locally owned builder specializing in homes for first-time buyers. Owners Steve and Michelle Bartholomew's gift of a new building is remarkable in its generosity and an inspiring testament to the place that Doug's House holds in the community's heart.

Now it's your turn! Steve and Michelle started the ball rolling, but there's still much to be done, inside and out. Money and volunteers, the life-blood of all our treasured organizations, are needed to complete the project. You can donate, whether it's cash or time, or even better, both: Call 454-8646 today. You'll be proud you did!