Governor Pat Quinn thanked runners and walkers and reiterated his commitment to HIV/AIDS services in Illinois this morning at the start of the thirteenth annual AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. The event welcomed more than 3,000 runners, walkers and volunteers to raise more than $380,000 for 32 organizations that support people living with HIV/AIDS.
The event took participants in the event’s 10K run and 5K run and walk along Chicago’s Lake Shore Path, starting and finishing in Arvey Field in Grant Park.
Governor Quinn was joined by Congressman Mike Quigley, Representative Greg Harris, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s Interim President & CEO John Peller. The group motivated corporate teams, individual runners and staff and clients of HIV/AIDS service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area before they crossed the start line.
Morning festivities also included a performance by the Chicago Human Rhythm Project in celebration of Global Female Condom Day. Participants Danced4Demand along with the ensemble to warm up and increase awareness and availability of female condoms, and Governor Quinn marked his “demand” for female condoms on a Citywide map where attendees want to see more availability of this prevention device.
The 5K winners were Alyssa Bracy and Jeremy Solomon, and the 10K winners were Thomas Lynch and Lindsay Young. A full list of participant finish times is available at aidsrunwalk.org.
After the race, runners and walkers viewed the stoic AIDS Memorial Quilt panels on display, and many in attendance participated in free HIV screening at testing trucks in Arvey Field.
Through a flash mob performance, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago participant Armando Ramirez proposed to his longtime boyfriend, Joel Guzman. The couple embraced surrounded by friends, dancers and HIV/AIDS advocates.
Funds raised through AIDS Run & Walk Chicago will benefit programs and services for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and 31 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 $4.5 million to battle the epidemic.
Donations to AIDS Run & Walk Chicago will be accepted through the end of the year. To donate or learn more, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
