The views expressed in the following text do not necessarily match the views of this site or the Government of Canada.
Feel Like Going For A Walk?
August 13, 2002
by Nessa
 On Sunday, September 22nd, 2002, the AIDS Committee of Toronto will be having their annual AIDS Walk Toronto. Since 1989, AIDS Walk Toronto has raised over 7 million dollars, directly benefiting those who are affected and infected with HIV/AIDS. The proceeds help to fund support groups and outreach programs because the areas of counsel and education are vital for the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Recent articles at youth.gc.ca have hopefully increased your knowledge about the AIDS epidemic. But the shocking statistics do not stop there. Toronto holds one of the highest infection rates in Canada, with an alarming 66% of HIV-positive Ontarians living in this city alone. AIDS Walk Toronto is just one of the many ways you can make a difference.
 If you are interested, check out the AIDS Walk Toronto website. You can register online to receive your own walker kit, complete with pledge forms and interesting tips on how to gain as many pledges possible. Of course, you can create your own personalized team, which is what most companies and schools choose to do. If you would also like to lend some spare time to help with the event, the AIDS Walk Toronto website is where you can sign up to be a volunteer.
The exciting AIDS Walk Toronto begins with a check-in at Nathan Phillips Square where participants hand in their pledge forms, learn about other community AIDS organizations, and interact with other walkers. The 6.5 km walk throughout the downtown streets of Toronto has many volunteers keeping up the AIDS Walk Toronto spirit, yelling out the checkpoints and carrying a few other surprises.
The fun doesn't stop at the finish line, though. Nathan Phillips Square is where the real party begins. A barbeque, beer garden, and lots of live entertainment are provided for the thousands who participate. This celebration, in the heart of downtown Toronto, is surely not to be missed. New this year is the StarWalker Club, where a party will be hosted for walkers who raise $400 or more. These special StarWalkers will also be given prizes in honour of their support.
Not surprisingly, thousands across Canada are holding their own AIDS Walk on September 22nd. Go to Aids Walk Canada to find out where you can register for your local AIDS walk.
Together, we can help find a cure, so grab your pair and get yourself there!
The views expressed in the following text do not necessarily match the views of this site or the Government of Canada.
|
