OKC’s AIDS Walk events set for September 22

(Oklahoma City) Runners and walkers alike are gearing up for the 2013 OKC AIDS Walk, Sunday, Sept. 22 in downtown Oklahoma City. This year again includes a 5K run and a Pooch Parade fashion show to round out the fun-filled family day. All proceeds benefit AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City, Inc.

AIDS Walk teams and individuals may register by visiting www.aidswalkokc.org or may sign up the day of the walk. Registration begins at 12:30pm at the Myriad Botanical Gardens and the walk steps off at 2pm. The event is free and open to the public.

Registration begins at 7:30am for the fifth annual 5k run at the Bricktown Ballpark. Sponsored by Dell, the run begins at 9am. Registration is $20 in advance and $25 the day of the run. Register at www.aidswalkokc.org.

 “The growth of the AIDS Walk and 5k run each year has really shown how the community support has enabled the AIDS Walk board to do our job,” said AIDS Walk board President John Greer. “That job is to raise funds to support agencies with HIV/AIDS programs. “ The growth of the 5k run has allowed us to expand our audience and their awareness of our message of HIV/AIDS,” Greer said.

The Pooch Parade, a popular addition last year, will return. Registration for the parade begins at 12:30pm, with the fashion show starting at 1pm. All dogs in the parade must be in costume and on a leash. Awards will be given for first, second and third place. The registration fee is $5. OK Save A Dog Foundation will again be on hand for pet adoptions. The Pooch Parade sponsor is Barking Dog Bakery.

Trophies will be given for the AIDS Walk 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 at First Giving. The First Giving website may be used to setup a fundraising page and e-mail family and friends so they may donate to the Walk.

The 5K run is sanctioned and certified by “USA Track & Field.” The entry fee also includes a t-shirt, fruit, water and a swag bag. Trophies will be given for best overall male and female finishers, with medals awarded to the top three finishers of each age group.

Vendor space is free to anyone wanting to set up at the event. Interested individuals and organizations should send an email to info@aidswalkokc.org to request space. Vendors must provide their own tables and chairs.

The 21st annual Turn About Show, sponsored by the HiLo Club, 1221 N.W. 50th Street, will again take place at 9 p.m. the night before benefiting the AIDS Walk.

Since 1998, the AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City has locally distributed more than $635,000 to fund local programs focusing on HIV/AIDS prevention education, and direct services to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. Last year grants totaling $40,000 were allocated to support these programs.

For more information or to become a sponsor of the AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City & 5k Run, download the online sponsorship form available at www.aidswalkokc.org, send an e-mail to info@aidswalkokc.org or call Greer at 405-812-1630.

September 15, 2013