^[1]SOURCE: AIDS Walk Charlotte
The 15th annual AIDS WALK Charlotte 2011 ^[1], scheduled for Saturday, May 7, is the largest HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising event in the Carolinas and a striking visual representation of our communities’ commitment and compassion for those impacted by HIV and AIDS.

The walk will be led by local media personality Tonia Bendickson, a long-time supporter of AIDS awareness and education. A passionate advocate, Tonia will also take part in on-site HIV/AIDS testing by the Mecklenburg County Health Department.

On Saturday, more than 1,500 caring individuals walk two miles through historic Fourth Ward in memory of those who have finished their journey, walk as advocates for those infected, and as a beacon of light for the future when our steps will have helped stop its spread.

Social Justice Climbers are new to the walk this year. The group, made up of individuals committed to raising at least $1,250, are transforming the community. Climbers are entitled to a few perks, too, including:

• Official Social Justice Climber castro hat
• Early check-in and T-shirt pick up the day before AIDS WALK Charlotte
• Admission for two to a post-AIDS Walk Charlotte celebration event
• Listing on the AIDS WALK Charlotte website
• Name announced from stage during the morning of AIDS WALK Charlotte
• Facebook and Twitter “shout out”

If you are interested in becoming a Social Justice Climber or have already reached the goal please send an email to socialjustice@carolinarain.org.

If you can’t make the AIDS WALK Charlotte or don’t want to wake up early, join the effort as a Sleep Walker. There is no fee to register as a Sleep Walker however participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of $100. (Sleep Walkers can also be Social Justice Climbers.)

All funds raised during this event stay in the Charlotte area and benefit RAIN (Regional AIDS Interfaith Network).

More about RAIN (Regional AIDS Interfaith Network)

RAIN is the largest full service AIDS organization in the Charlotte metropolitan area. RAIN integrates the wisdom and voices of those infected with HIV/AIDS in the planning and delivery of their services. As a result of their work, they inspire and empower more people to live, open more minds, and help break the stigma of HIV/AIDS regionally, nationally, and internationally. RAIN services include Medical Case Management, support groups for youth and adults, awareness and prevention education, chaplain services, and life skills training.

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