AIDS Walk OKC hosts platinum event

The AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City is celebrating a milestone. Now in their 20th year, they’ve selected the theme, “Stomp Out Stigma,” with a focus on busting myths about HIV/AIDS and treating those affected with dignity.

This year’s event will be Sunday, Sept. 23, and in addition to the OKC AIDS Walk will be the 5K and 10K Red Run at the Oklahoma City Public Farmer’s Market in downtown Oklahoma City.                                  

“We’re excited to celebrate 20 years of AIDS Walk in Oklahoma City,” said AIDS Walk Board President Jeremy Crites. “AIDS Walk is an opportunity to honor the friends and family we’ve lost, help with education to treat and prevent new cases, and give hope to those affected by HIV/AIDS.

“We are very grateful to everyone who helps us raise money for the cause; the funds make it possible for us to continue our necessary work in the metro.”

Pre-registration for any of the events can be done online at www.aidswalkokc.org or on the day of the event at the Farmer’s Market.

Crites added, “We are encouraging all participants to pre-register online via First Giving at www.aidswalkokc.org.

“This link gives individuals and teams the tools they need to successfully share their campaign through emails and social media, with a quick and easy as well as secure way to give.”

Register for the Red Run through the same link by Sept. 22 for a $5 early bird discount.

Local entertainers will provide entertainment throughout the day. Many of these entertainers are titleholders in various pageants from local, state and national levels.

All participants in the 5K/1oK Red Run will receive a medal and trophies will be given to the top male and female finisher.

For our fundraising participants, trophies will be given for the team with the most walkers, the walk team that raises the most money, the individual who raises the most money, and the individual or team who has raised the most money online through the First Giving website.

In addition, vendor space is available for $50 for businesses wanting to set up at the event. Nonprofits supported by AIDS Walk OKC and sponsor tables are available at no cost. Interested individuals and organizations should send an email to info@aidswalkokc.org to request space. Vendors must provide tables, chairs and tents.                          

Since 1998, the AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City has locally distributed more than $683,000 to fund local programs focusing on HIV/AIDS prevention, education, and direct services to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS.

Copyright The Gayly/ 9/7/2018 @ 12:44 p.m. CST.