This year marks the 23rd annual AIDS Walk in DC. The walk raises funds for the Whitman-Walker Clinic, a staple in the medical community for people living with HIV. The fund-raising goal this year is one million dollars. Although the goal is lofty, the funds will be used for crucial components such as primary health and dental care, meals, treatments, addiction counseling and treatment, HIV education, and legal services. Many people who use the Whitman-Walker Clinic are out of options and need urgent care to save or prolong their lives. Donald Blanchon, chief executive officer of the Whitman-Walker clinic says " the AIDS Walk is our largest one day fundraiser of the year and brings in crucial money for HIV/AIDS care at the clinic."
The event will begin and end at Freedom Plaza in downtown DC. There will be a rally at 8:30 am. The 5k run will begin at 9:00 am followed shortly by the walk at 9:15 am. This year's walk will have the support of numerous corporate and private sponsors such as local television station NBC 4, local radio stations WMMJ 102.3 FM, WKYS 93.9 FM, Giant Food, and GEICO Insurance.
It is estimated that one in twenty residents in DC is infected with HIV. DC has the highest rates of AIDS cases per 100,000 people in the United States (which is 12 times the national average). The greatest increase in AIDS cases is occurring among people of color, women, intravenous drug users, and through heterosexual contact. It is also estimated that the rate of HIV infection in DC could be as high as five percent. Many people refuse to be tested so they are not aware of their status.
What can you do?
Register or start a team and help raise funds. You can also volunteer the day of the event or support a registered walker/runner (including yours truly). Even a simple direct donation to the clinic brings them one step closer to their million dollar goal. There is even a "sleep walker" registration for those who want to register but cannot make it there for the actual event.
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