A year after torrential rains cancelled it in 2009, the seventh annual AIDS Walk St. Petersburg returned to North Shore Park on Sept. 11 and raised more than $60,000 for the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas.
Even though the final figure is below the Walk’s goal of $100,000, coordinator Anthony Barros is grateful for the community’s support.
“Last year was a wash out for us,” Barros said. “We all remember the horrible storm that caused the cancelation of last year’s walk, so we were expecting to take a big hit this year. Couple that with the current economy, we are blessed to say our seventh walk generated more than $60,000 and we anticipate more money to come in through the end of the month.”
Barros and his staff fought an up hill battle as a result of the 2009 cancellation, but Barros credited outreach effort and the community for the 700-plus walkers this year, including several high schools and youth organizations.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to work with the youth in the community this year, and educate them on HIV/AIDS prevention,” said Barros.
When Barros moved to St Petersburg 12 years ago, the region was unfamiliar with the concept of an AIDS Walk.
The first walk was on Sept. 25, 2004 and has since raised more than $500,000 for ASAP. For two decades, the charitable organization has provided numerous services to those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, including case management, counseling services, a food pantry and drug assistance programs. ASAP also facilitates the Suncoast Project, which offers rapid on-site HIV testing that can provide results in as little as 20 minutes.
This year’s walk coincided with the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, and the date did not go unnoticed. A special moment of reflection at this year’s walk was narrated by FOX 13 Weatherman Andy Johnson. The ringing of the AIDS Memorial Bells honored both the victims of 9-11, as well as those who lost the battle with HIV/AIDS.
ASAP will hold a second fundraiser in December with the Santa Speedo Run in Gulfport.
