The Academy Award-winning actor and philanthropist will receive amfAR’s Award of Inspiration for her longstanding commitment to humanitarian work and global HIV/AIDS advocacy.

On Saturday, October 24, amfAR will bring together philanthropists, cultural leaders, and supporters for its second annual Dallas Benefit Gala, with Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian Charlize Theron set to receive the organization’s prestigious Award of Inspiration.

Taking place at the home of Kathleen and Scott Kirby, the black-tie evening will celebrate Theron’s remarkable humanitarian efforts while raising critical funds for amfAR’s groundbreaking HIV research and global health initiatives.

Beyond her celebrated career in film and her work through her production company, Theron has established herself as a prominent advocate for young people and global health. As a United Nations Messenger of Peace and founder of the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project (CTAOP), she has dedicated herself to strengthening the health, safety, and opportunities of youth across Southern Africa.

Through partnerships with community-based organizations, CTAOP supports initiatives focused on sexual and reproductive health, HIV prevention, and combating gender-based violence. Its programs have reached more than 4.8 million young people to date.

Theron’s advocacy has also extended beyond her foundation’s core initiatives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she and CTAOP launched the Together for Her campaign with CARE and the Entertainment Industry Foundation to address gender-based violence, later partnering with the Ford Foundation to advocate for global vaccine equity.

“Charlize Theron’s longstanding support of amfAR and HIV/AIDS care and prevention through her own foundation make her an inspiration to us all,” said amfAR CEO Kyle Clifford. “We are grateful to her for her tireless work and are thrilled to be able to recognize her at our event in Dallas this year.”

While the evening will honor Theron, its larger purpose remains amfAR’s mission to advance scientific research and help end the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Despite significant progress in HIV treatment and prevention over the past four decades, millions of people living with HIV still lack access to lifesaving medication. amfAR continues to invest in biomedical research designed to accelerate the development of new approaches to HIV prevention, treatment, and ultimately a cure.

Dallas has played a particularly important role in supporting that mission. Under the leadership of amfAR Trustee Cindy Rachofsky and Howard Rachofsky, and through the generosity of the North Texas community, amfAR supporters in the region have raised more than $66.5 million over the past 26 years.

The 2026 gala will combine philanthropy with an evening of sophisticated entertainment, featuring cocktails, musical performances, a black-tie dinner, and a live auction offering luxury goods, contemporary art, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

With Charlize Theron at the center of this year’s celebration, the Dallas Benefit Gala promises to be an evening where Hollywood, philanthropy, science, and social impact converge.

Her recognition reflects a broader commitment shared by Theron and amfAR: using visibility, resources, and innovation to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.

As Dallas prepares to welcome the organization’s supporters for its second annual benefit, the evening will serve not only as a celebration of extraordinary achievement, but as a reminder of the work still ahead in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Event: amfAR Dallas Benefit Gala
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Location: Home of Kathleen and Scott Kirby, Dallas
Honoree: Charlize Theron
Award: amfAR Award of Inspiration