Born and raised in Houston and longtime resident of Montrose, entrepreneur Jay Hollyfield dedicated his life to supporting the needs of the local gay and lesbian community and supported the arts. In addition to volunteering with or donating generously to local organizations or events, Hollyfield served on the Board of Directors for AIDS Foundation Houston, which is now known as Allies in Hope, which continues its work toward ending the AIDS epidemic in Houston, and to provide equitable access to care, treatment, and other supportive services.

On February 6, 1994, Jay Hollyfield passed away due to AIDS-related complications. Per his request, The Hollyfield Foundation was founded. In its efforts to advocate in the fight against the AIDS epidemic, The Hollyfield Foundation provides funding to non-profit organizations that work to prevent discrimination, educate and secure equal rights for sexual minorities and assist in health care issues, particularly in the areas of HIV/AIDS education, care and treatment.