‘Countdown to AIDS Walk’ to raise awareness of HIV

On Thursday, April 23, the Multicultural Resource Center will sponsor a “Countdown to AIDS Walk” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Student Union to sign up individuals to participate in Charlotte’s annual AIDS Walk, scheduled for Saturday, May 2.

The April 23 event will include music and entertainment, along with interactive HIV educational displays and presentations.

The Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) has organized a team to participate in AIDS Walk Charlotte for five years. In the past, the UNC Charlotte team has won awards for having the largest team at the walk, and University organizers said they hope to win again this year, as well as increase fundraising totals. The University met its goal of $2,049 the past several years.

“Those who are not able to walk on May 2 can ‘sleepwalk.’ They can still sign up to be members of the team,” said Joshua Burford, MRC assistant director of gender and sexual diversity. “All levels of participation and support are welcome.”

Burford added, “With Countdown to AIDS Walk, we’re basically taking over the whole Union. We will have a lot of information and resources available for those who want to find out more about HIV/AIDS and what students can do to stay safe and aware. Just as with the walk itself, our goal is to raise awareness of HIV, how to prevent it and how to treat those in our community who are affected as well.”

All proceeds for AIDS Walk Charlotte, one of the largest HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising events in the Carolinas, go to the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN), a local organization working to provide the public with education and improve quality of life for those infected with HIV or AIDS. Students can sign up for the UNC Charlotte during registration for AIDS Walk Charlotte.

For more information, visit the MRC website.