David Chadd, left, and David White co-chair House of DIFFA: Hotel Mystique,
happening Saturday, May 9, at Sheraton Dallas (Photo courtesy DIFFA Dallas)

RICH LOPEZ | Staff writer
Rich@DallasVoice.com

Now that the Met Gala is done with, let’s get into Dallas’ own high style charity event.

Fashion and philanthropy come together this weekend at DIFFA Dallas’ annual fundraiser, House of DIFFA. This year, the organization transports guests to the Hotel Mystique which serves as the theme inside Sheraton Dallas on Saturday, May 9. Designed spaces will unfold from DIFFA’s own luxury hotel filled with elegance and intrigue.

“Hotel Mystique was inspired by the idea that behind every glamorous façade lies a deeper story,” David Chadd, co-chair of House of DIFFA, said in the event’s announcement. “This theme allows us to blend high fashion, art and immersive storytelling while honoring the strength, vulnerability, and resilience of the communities DIFFA serves.”

Yes: Beyond the glitz and glamour is a significant event that raises not just funds for HIV/AIDS research, but also awareness.

DIFFA’s mission provides funding to organizations that support individuals affected by
HIV/AIDS, food insecurity and mental health challenges while also extending assistance to the unhoused and offering healthcare access for underserved communities across the nation.

DIFFA is one of the largest and most successful fundraising organizations for HIV/AIDS nonprofit service. The Dallas chapter is DIFFA’s largest, based on the funds raised by events such as House of DIFFA.

From the “Heavenly” scene at the 2025 House of DIFFA event
(Photo by Danny Campbell)

This year’s event is co-chaired by Chadd and David White.

Inside Hotel Mystique, DIFFA explains the sexy undertones of the theme:

Hotel Mystique explores the stories that unfold in private spaces — the hidden journeys, quiet resilience and transformations that often exist beyond public view. Inspired by a grand luxury hotel, the theme invites guests into thoughtfully designed spaces where each room reveals a new narrative. Behind every door lies a story of identity and strength, reflecting the beauty and resilience that define the communities DIFFA serves.

Fashion is key to House of DIFFA with runway shows, the signature, custom-designed jackets on auction and, of course, on those in attendance serving looks for days.

White said, “House of DIFFA is often called the Met Gala of Dallas, and for good reason. It’s a vibrant, high-energy night where fashion, entertainment and philanthropy come together in unforgettable ways, all in support of a mission that truly matters.”

Throughout the night, each runway segment will feature a different chapter of Hotel Mystique, delivering an immersive fashion journey overall.

The Live Luxury Jacket Auction showcases one-of-a-kind, custom-designed jackets created exclusively for DIFFA Dallas. Each jacket is a singular piece of work created by a visionary designers that will be offered only during the live auction.

From the “Thriller” scene in the 2025 House of DIFFFA event
(Photo by Thomas Garza)

The auction also includes luxury fashion, fine jewelry, original artwork and exclusive travel experiences — with all proceeds directly benefiting HIV/AIDS service organizations across North Texas.

The co-chairs, White and Chadd, bring deep-rooted dedication and longstanding leadership to DIFFA Dallas.

White’s 35 years of involvement with the organization has had him serving in numerous leadership capacities, including board chairman, treasurer and young professionals director.

He has also served on key committees for the Silent Auction, Burgers & Burgundy and the Wreath Holiday Collection.

This is Chadd’s eighth year f with DIFFA Dallas, having first served on the Style Council before joining the board. He has co-chaired both the Luxury Jacket Auction and the Wreath Holiday Collection, contributing to some of the organization’s largest fundraising initiatives.

He even walked the House of DIFFA runway during his first Style Council appearance in 2017 alongside his husband, creating an historic moment as the first married same-sex couple to participate

“I have always admired the board of DIFFA Dallas since my very first House of DIFFA in 2017,” Chadd said. “I saw how hard they worked to produce such an amazing event, and I wanted to be a part of that while also raising money for the HIV/AIDS community.”

White added, “Support of DIFFA Dallas enables the organization to provide unrestricted funds to North Texas AIDS Service Organizations that are suffering from the loss of so many Federal grants and funding,” said White. “The present economic situation only heightens the need for funding.”

For more information about updates on future DIFFA Dallas initiatives and events, visit DIFFADallas.org.

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