The NJ AIDS Walk 2018 is a simultaneous event in five New Jersey municipalities that are home to leading HIV/AIDS service organizations. This year it will be held on Sunday, May 6. Thousands of people take part in the walk in solidarity and to support those living with HIV/AIDS in the state. It is an annual reminder and example that “Jersey Strong” means compassion, community and commitment, say the local organizers.
Thus far, organizers say they have raised just 50% of the amount the fundraiser is expected to bring in at all five locations.
Despite incredible progress, New Jersey continues to rank among the 10 states with the highest rates of HIV infection in the country. There are more than 38,000 people currently living with HIV/AIDS in the state. Local organizations hope more citizens will give their time and their money to join in fighting the pandemic by walking this year.
Collaborating AIDS service providers for NJ AIDS Walk 2018 include:
- Buddies of New Jersey (Ridgewood)
- New Jersey AIDS Services (Morristown)
- North Jersey Community Research Initiative (Newark)
- South Jersey AIDS Alliance (Atlantic City)
- The Center in Asbury Park (Asbury Park)
“Walking sends a clear message to the community that we won’t allow the healthcare needs of people living with HIV to be forgotten,” said Laurie Litt, chief executive officer of New Jersey AIDS Services which organizes and hosts the walk’s Morristown location.
How you can make a positive impact on the AIDS crisis in NJ at NJ AIDS Walk
Find out how easy it is to register for the NJ AIDS Walk 2018 online. It is free, fast and easy, say the organizers. You can choose to do it on your own or with a team. Just by clicking on your local event, you can sign up as an individual walker or start your own team.
All five locations need volunteers for pre-walk and event-day activities. You can click online with the location where you would like to volunteer.
And the organizers stress that all of the money raised at each location goes directly back to the local sponsoring organization. Participants can be assured that their donations will stay local.
If you have any questions regarding registering for NJ AIDS Walk or where your donation goes, please contact the organization hosting a walk in your area for more information.
Local NJ AIDS Walk 2018 registration begins at 11:30 am; step-off is at 1 pm at each location. The locations are: Atlantic City, Asbury Park, Morristown, Newark and Ridgewood. This year Janssen Infectious Diseases is the 2018 presenting sponsor. Out In Jersey magazine is a media sponsor.
For more information on how to get involved as a walker or a volunteer visit NJAIDSWalk.org and click on the walk location you wish to support.
