Gearing up for this year’s AIDS Run & Walk, AFC and our partners are coming together in the spirit of our theme, “Show Up, Show Out.” AIDS Run & Walk, now in its 33rd year, brings out people from all walks of life to raise awareness and funds in support of our fight to end the HIV epidemic and homelessness. If you haven’t registered yet, you can sign up online. With thousands of participants walking, running, and rolling each year, this event is a powerful example of community-driven support, especially through the efforts of our CommunityDirect Partners (CDPs).
CommunityDirect Partners are Chicago-based organizations working in the HIV field or in support of social determinants of health that participate in the AIDS Run & Walk to raise funds for their own programs and services. Because ending the HIV epidemic and homelessness will require many hands pulling together to improve quality of life and dismantle barriers to accessing care and services, supporting our CDPs furthers AFC’s own vision and values. This unique approach allows CDPs to retain 90% of the funds they raise at AIDS Run & Walk. Since 2005, AFC has returned over $2.5 million to these service providers, with more than 30 partners currently participating. The impact is profound—50% of fundraising and participants at AIDS Run & Walk are tied to these community-rooted organizations, making the event a true example of fundraising by the people, for the people.
Michael Keating, Development Communications Manager at AFC, says of CommunityDirect, “Within the fight to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic, no one can do it alone. We have 30+ CommunityDirect Partners, each having their own specialties and focus. The beauty of working with these partners is that funds go directly to the people we serve. It’s decentralized community fundraising, from us by us, so we are not beholden to a corporate quota or bottom line.”
Spotlight on Black Alphabet: A New CommunityDirect Partner
One of our newest CDPs, Black Alphabet, began as a conversation about the lack of exposure for films exploring the Black LGBTQ experience. From this discussion, the Black Alphabet Film Festival (BAFF) was born, Chicago’s first Black LGBTQ film festival. Since its inception in 2013, BAFF has worked tirelessly to empower Black LGBTQ communities globally by sharing their stories, creating a legacy that honors the past, highlights the present, and nurtures the future.
Black Alphabet expanded its mission to include other creative expressions and advocacy efforts. They now focus on promoting social equity through media and the arts, addressing issues disproportionately impacting the Black LGBTQ+ community. By participating in AIDS Run & Walk, Black Alphabet is not only raising funds to support its programs, but also amplifying the voices and stories of a community that is often marginalized.
Adam McMath of Black Alphabet shared, “Black Alphabet appreciates being a part of AIDS Run & Walk as an arts and culture organization that uses our work to address things that disproportionately impact the community that we serve – Black LGBTQ+ people and our allies. We are happy that AFC supports our approach to HIV care and prevention. AFC has been a great coach and partner in our approach to the work.”
Transforming Reentry Services: A Long-Time CommunityDirect Partner
Transforming Reentry Services (TRS), another CDP, has been a steadfast partner in the AIDS Run & Walk for 15 years. Founded and incorporated by Black women and incarcerated individuals, TRS works to create an equitable future for re-entry communities. They provide comprehensive services to individuals transitioning from incarceration, using a client-centered and culturally competent approach.
TRS’s work is multifaceted, addressing health and wellness, social economic recovery, prison advocacy, capacity building, and international programs. Their goal is to ensure that returning citizens have access to the resources and support they need to rebuild their lives and re-integrate into their communities successfully.
A representative from TRS shared, “Our participation in the AIDS Run & Walk goes beyond fundraising; it’s about standing with our community and advocating for those whose voices are often silenced. The funds we raise allow us to continue providing critical services that help individuals transition from behind the wall to a thriving life in the community.”
The Power of Community Fundraising
AIDS Run & Walk Chicago represents the collective efforts of our community to build support and awareness. Brionna Sangas, a Community Coordinator with Transforming Reentry Services, “Fundraising can be a challenge, but I’ve found that real, honest conversations help people understand our mission. It’s easier to start with a general post on social media and then connect directly with family and friends. From there, I ask them to spread the word within their circles. Sometimes, they come back around, and that’s when I know I’m raising awareness.”
With September 28, 2024, nearing, we invite everyone to Show Up and Show Out at Soldier Field. Join us on this important day—registration begins at 9:00 AM, with the run starting at 10:35 AM and the walk at 10:50 AM. Your participation directly supports AFC and our CommunityDirect Partners, making a lasting impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Together at AIDS Run & Walk, we can show up, show out, and make a difference.
