Gift for Life's January fund-raising event, Stakes are High Casino, raised $200,000.

The 17th Annual event was held during the New York International Gift Fair and welcomed more than 300 members of the gift and home industry representatives.

“The change in format focused on having fun as well as raising money for a great cause,” said Tabitha Bowling, Gift for Life chairman. “To date we have raised more than $4 million for HIV/AIDS research and assistance through the genero us help of partners and party attendees. We look forward to seeing everyone in January 2010.”

The new party format featured casino-style gaming, and prize drawings. Prizes included an H-P laptop, a stay in a Caribbean resort, a leather duffel bag by Coach, VIP winery tours in Sonoma County and other luxury goods.

“We at DIFFA were thrilled with our first collaboration with Gift For Life and impressed by their leadership's passion and enthusiasm,” said David Sheppard, executive director of DIFFA.

Each year Gift for Life hosts regional events and a national fund-raiser during the NYIGF. Funds benefit DIFFA: Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS.