Scotiabank, along with AIDS Calgary and HIV Edmonton, would love for you to participate in the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life on September 12th. According to 2008 United Nations statistics, there were 34.1 million individuals living with AIDS in the world. Globally the disease has taken the lives of 25 million people. It is imperative that a cure be found, and that individuals affected with AIDS and HIV are treated with the dignity they deserve. By participating in the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life, you can help, and also get some good exercise along the way.
The walk in Calgary is being held at Eau Claire starting at 11:30am with the Opening Ceremonies. Make sure to arrive at 10am to check in, and even if you are not participating in the walk, stop by to cheer on those that are. The walk will commence at noon, and wind down at 1pm with lunch and entertainment.
To register as a team or individually visit the AIDS Calgary website. There will be prizes for certain categories: Top Early Bird, Top Walker, Top Child, Top Youth, Top Corporate Team, and Top Non-Corporate Team.
Another way to participate is to volunteer for the event. There are still spots available, so make sure to check out the AIDS Calgary website for information.
Further north, Edmonton will similarly be hosting their Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life, at Churchill Square from 11am to 4pm. Registration also begins at 10am, followed by a Pancake Breakfast and a Pre-Walk Concert by Souljah Fyah. Opening Ceremonies commence at 12:30pm with a performance by Marni Gras, followed by the walk from 1-2:30pm. There will then be a post walk party from 2:30 to 4pm.
There is a special incentive for participants to raise more that $1000, as this qualifies them to become a member of the Extra Mile Club. This gains them access to an exclusive reception held on September 9th, entitles them to express registration on event day, and a gift certificate from Prana Holistic.
Joyce LaBriola of HIV Edmonton is also encouraging the public to join in. “This is the 19th annual walk in Edmonton. ...The top walker wins a trip to the AIDS Walk San Francisco. People can expect fun, and a family day of entertainment. Our goal is $90,000 in pledges.”
With an estimated 4000 individuals afflicted with HIV/AIDS in Alberta, the focus on raising money for AIDS Calgary and HIV Edmonton is crucial. Both Calgary and Edmonton’s events make this task a fun and fashionable community effort.
