AIDS Run & Walk Chicago, one of the city’s high-profile fundraisers to combat HIV/AIDS, is Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011. The annual 5K event will take place in Upper Hutchinson Field at Grant Park (entrance at the southwest corner of Balbo and Columbus). More than 8,000 people are expected to participate.
Proceeds benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and more than 70 local AIDS organizations.
The 5K run starts at 8:30 a.m.; the 10K run at 8:45 a.m.; the 5K run at 9 a.m. Register at: aidsrunwalk.org. Online registration closes at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 28. Event day registration opens at 7 a.m. on Oct. 1.
AIDS Run & Walk Chicago features live entertainment and on-site Health & Fitness Village, hosted and sponsored by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The event will feature performances by: R&B artists Nehemiah Akbar and Adam Emil, Windy City Cowboys, Inaside Chicago Dance, Color Blind Celebrations: DJ Casper, and many more.
The first 6,000 participants who register and pickup their packet and bib will receive the official AIDS Run & Walk Chicago dry fit, long-sleeved shirt. Other incentives based on fundraising levels include: $0-$249 (drawstring bag) ; $250-$499 (baseball cap) ; $500-$749 (gym bag) ; $750 and above (hooded, zip sweatshirt).
Since its establishment in 2001, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago has raised more than $3 million net to fight HIV/AIDS. More than 90 teams have registered to date, embodying the theme of this year’s event: “I move. I am greater than AIDS.”
Registration is $25 in advance; $30 on-site. To register as an individual or team, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312.334.0946.