Southern Nevada’s oldest and largest HIV/AIDS service organization, Aid for AIDS of Nevada’s (AFAN), will host the first-ever virtual AIDS Walk & 5K Las Vegas on Sunday, April 11, 2021. Participants can either walk or run solo or with a team while supporting AFAN’s essential support services for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in Southern Nevada.
The event will kick-off with a virtual pre-walk show hosted by AJ and Joanna from Sunny 106.5 Morning Show at 10am. The show will feature special performances from Las Vegas entertainers and cast members. Following the pre-show, walkers and runners are encouraged to complete a 5K or 1-mile course of their choosing. Participants will have until April 30th to complete, and are encouraged to share photos, videos, and run times using #AIDSWalkLV and tagging @AFANLV and @AIDSWalkLV.
Longtime AFAN supporters, Penn & Teller will serve return as the virtual grand marshals of the event, leading their annual Penn & Teller challenge which matches dollar for dollar donations walkers and runners raise.
“As COVID-19 continues to alter the way we go about our lives, we felt it was important to continue to adhere to the state’s guidance on large scale events by transitioning to a virtual format,” said Antioco Carrillo, AFAN Executive Director. “While we are celebrating the 31st annual AIDS Walk Las Vegas virtually, it’s important to remember the real-life effects COVID-19 has on those living with HIV/AIDS. Our clients are facing loss of employment and medical insurance, food insecurity, lack of housing, and a variety of other problems. This event is imperative so we can continue to bridge the gap between our clients and resources that they need.”
AIDS Walk Las Vegas is the largest fundraiser of the organization and helps to provide care for over 1500 individuals livings including medical transportation, medical case management, rent and utility assistance, nutritional counseling, food vouchers, mental health therapy as well as HIV prevention education and testing.
Registration for the walk is free and $50 for the 5K. All registered participants will receive a variety of prizes and 5K runners will receive a special medal for taking the extra challenge. To register or for more information, visit afanlv.org.
About AFAN
Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. 2021 marks AFAN’s 36th anniversary of practicing its unyielding commitment to the community by providing unparalleled health expertise, support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. Over the years, AFAN has created various programs that offer consistent and comprehensive assistance including direct client service programs, food programs, prevention and education programs and community outreach. As part of AFAN’s mission, these client service programs assist in enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives. For more information, please visit afanlv.org. Keep up with AFAN events by following @afanLV & @aidswalkLV on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.