By: Ashmar Mandou

Year after year, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) mobilizes hundreds of Chicagoans to gather at Soldier Field for their annual AIDS Run and Walk Chicago, hosted by AFC and benefitting 35 community organizations, also known as CommunityDirect partners. “This is truly an amazing event for a great cause,” said AFC’s Director of Fundraising Rhett Lindsay. “It is a time where we come together to raise awareness about an issue that affects so many lives.” According to AFC, AIDS Run and Walk Chicago raised $270,000 with the help of CommunityDirect teams, last year. This year, their hope is to raise an even larger amount to help support HIV/AIDS programs and services across the city, particularly communities most affected by the epidemic. “These are difficult times for non-profit organizations,” said Lindsay. “This is a way for our partners to express their demand for better support for HIV prevention and services.” Event registration is $40 in advance for 5k walkers and $50 for 5k or 10k runners. To register as an individual or as a team, or to donate to a CommunityDirect team, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.