AIDSWalk – A Portland Tradition for 17 years

On Sunday, September 26, men, women, and children will show their support for those impacted by HIV and AIDS by lacing up their walking shoes to participate in Cascade AIDS Project’s AIDSWalk04 presented by NIKE. Everyone is encouraged to plug into the community pulse by taking part in this 5K event, which commences and culminates at Pioneer Courthouse Square from 8:30am until noon.

The festivities include breakfast, high-energy entertainment, a hip-hop warm-up, and inspirational presentations from local athletes and leaders to provide a memorable, uplifting experience for participants. Kinder Care is hosting a special play area just for kids with lots of fun activities.

The goal of AIDSWalk04 is to bring together 7,500 individuals, corporate teams, and volunteers to raise $300,000 for Cascade AIDS Project’s HIV/AIDS services, public education, and outreach to protect the youth and adults most at risk for contracting HIV. Every hour, two Americans under the age of 25 become infected with HIV. New cases include men, women, and children. There are an estimated 4,500 people with HIV, and 2,200 people living with AIDS in Oregon.

In AIDSWalk’s 17-year history, Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) has raised more than $1.8 million to provide HIV prevention, support, and advocacy for people living in Oregon and SW Washington. In 2003, CAP served 1,800 men, women, and children with HIV or AIDS and their families and educated more than 21,000 youth and adults about HIV prevention.

Join the fight against HIV/AIDS. Register to walk with friends, family, and co-workers and fundraise together or form a company team. Enjoy a glorious Portland pre-fall morning outdoors with thousands of others seeking to make a positive difference in the lives of brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, friends and loved ones impacted by this devastating and preventable disease.

Register online at www.cascadeaids.org or call 503-223-WALK to receive your walker manual and donation forms. AIDSWalk04 is proudly sponsored by NIKE, Starbucks, Mix 107.5, Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oregon, Legacy Health System, Gas Transmission NW, Kaiser Permanente, and Kitchen Kaboodle.

Before the 5k walk along the Waterfront, enjoy breakfast courtesy of Whole Foods, and take part in some of the many exciting activities offered. View a piece of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, make a sign and help make a change in the Action Room, get your face painted in the Kids’ Corner, have a free team photo taken, and connect with other walkers like yourself. Add exciting prizes and entertainment, and AidsWalk04 will certainly be a day to remember!