AIDS Walk OKC events scheduled for September

On Sunday, Sept. 25, AIDS Walk OKC will be hosting the 2016 OKC AIDS Walk and 5k Red Run at the Myriad Gardens in downtown Oklahoma City. In 2015 alone, even with the rain, the event had an estimated 2,000 participants and raised more than $2,000 for the Oklahoma City area AIDS Service Organizations.

“AIDS Walk OKC is excited to embark on our 18th annual AIDS Walk OKC and 8th Annual 5K RED Run,” said AIDS Walk Board President Verna Meadows. “The event brings a diverse group together in support of those living with HIV/AIDS, education and prevention to reduce new infections and a forum to remember those we have lost to the disease. We are most grateful to those who raise funds to support the campaign; 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 Myriad Gardens.

Meadows added, “We are encouraging all participants to pre-register online and use The First Giving website. This will give 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.”

The day’s events include:

5k Red Run Registration: 7:30 a.m.

Red Run 5k Start Time: 9 a.m.

$30 in advance or $35 day of run

AIDS OKC Walk Registration: 12:30 p.m.

Walk Start Time: 2 p.m.

Free and open to the public

Instead of the Pooch Parade, entertainment will be provided by local entertainers throughout the day. Many of these entertainers are titleholders in the different pageants from local, state and national levels. They will be donating their tips to AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City.

All participants in the 5k Red Run will receive a medal and trophies will be given to the top male and female finisher. Run specific t-shirts are being guaranteed to those who pre-register before September 1. A limited number of run t-shirts will be available that day also. Run registration can be done at www.eventbrite.com/e/red-run-2016-tickets-23057925877.

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. Tables, chairs and tents must be provided by vendors.

About AIDS Walk OKC - 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. Last year grants totaling $23,000 were allocated to support these programs. For more information, visit www.aidswalkokc.org.

The Gayly – July 1, 2016 @ 12:30 p.m.