Lakefront AIDS Event Will Go Forward on Sunday, September 23

Attack on America Will Not Lessen Our Compassion, Say Event Organizers

Chicago, IL – Organizers of Chicago's Run & Walk for AIDS announced today that recent terrorist attacks on America will not interrupt plans for the 5K lakefront event on Sunday, September 23 at Chicago’s Museum Campus.

“Last week’s horrific events have only strengthened our determination to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors affected by AIDS,” said Hank Zemola of Chicago Special Events Management, the event organizer. “Too many people count on our support for us to allow these atrocities to deter our good deeds.”

The event will kick-off at Grant Park's Museum Campus at Columbus and Roosevelt Rd. at 7:30 a.m. for an interfaith Sunrise Celebration of Life to commemorate those who have died of AIDS. The service, featuring community and religious leaders from several faiths including Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Native American and others, will also reflect on the recent tragedies to help participants begin the healing process. Rev. Ed Townley, senior minister at non-denominational Unity in Chicago, will lead faith leaders in conducting the service.

The 5K Run will start at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K Walk at 10 a.m. On-site registration begins at 7:00 a.m. All pledges and donations turned in on Sunday will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago to support essential AIDS prevention, education, and care services in the Chicagoland area. Because corporate sponsors have fully underwritten the cost of producing the event, every dollar raised by runners and walkers will go directly to help people affected by HIV/AIDS.

A post Run/Walk concert featuring national recording artist Linda Clifford and the acclaimed Mighty Blue Kings will follow the run/walk at 10:30 a.m. Last minute information on the event can be obtained at www.chicagorunwalkforaids.org.

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