Last Saturday, October 2, over 1,800 advocates, activists, and allies came together at Soldier Field for AIDS Foundation Chicago’s annual AIDS Run & Walk. This year, which also marks the event’s 30th anniversary, raised nearly half a million dollars ($454,300 currently, with online donations open through November 1).
Funds raised will directly support AFC and 26 other community organizations, helping to providing essential programs and services for those living with or vulnerable to HIV/AIDS or other chronic illnesses.
The top five fundraisers, who collectively raised approximately $38,100, include C-Paz Fights AIDS ($10,295); Ben Sprunger ($8.700); Scott Miller ($7,255); Ernie Rodriguez ($6,750); and Hannah Kopach ($5,108).
The top fundraising teams, which collectively raised approximately $129,400, include Chicago House ($39,426); Season of Concern ($30,249); Team CCHIP-CORE Austin ($21,802); Team Center on Halsted ($20, 915); and Howard Brown Health ($17,096). A full list of supporters can be found at AidsRunWalk.org.
AFC President and CEO John Peller said, “Forward Together was the theme of this year’s event, and that is exactly what we did. We moved forward together after a challenging 18 months and were extremely grateful for all of the supporters who safely gathered to raise essential funds for those who need it most.”
In additon to raising much-need funds for underserved people and communities, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago also serves as a memorial for loved ones lost to complications of HIV and AIDS, and a reminder of why we must continue to eradicate this virus and related stigma.
