Thousands participate in AIDS Run & Walk Chicago

Sat. September 28, 2013 11:58 AM by GoPride.com News Staff

photo credit // anthony meade

Annual event raises awareness and funds for life-saving HIV/AIDS care programs

Chicago, IL - More than 4,000 Chicago-area residents participated in the fight against HIV/AIDS during the 12th annual AIDS Run & Walk Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 28.

"We're thrilled that the AIDS Run & Walk is in its 12th year," Rhett Lindsay, Director of Special Events for AIDS Foundation of Chicago, told ChicagoPride.com. "Everybody is connected to HIV/AIDS somehow, through someone. The AIDS Run & Walk brings people together to participate in a healthy activity, raise money for a life-giving cause, and actively fight this epidemic."

The event kicked off Saturday morning at Soldier Field with 5K and 10K courses winding along the lakeshore. Post-race entertainment included a performance by '90s singing icon CeCe Peniston, famous for her dance hit "Finally."

Nearly 5,000 people, including participants, volunteers, and workers, turned out for this year's Run & Walk. Participants raised over $400,000.  

Funds raised through the AIDS Run & Walk will benefit programs and services for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and 35 other metropolitan organizations that provide life-saving services to people living with HIV/AIDS. 

Since it was established in 2001, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago has netted more than $4 million to battle the epidemic.

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