WHY WALK?
- Giving leads to a longer, happier life.
- Walking 5K is a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with family and friends.
- All funds raised from the 2011 Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life Toronto will support the vital work of the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT)
- Every day, two Torontonians contract HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
- Preventing one HIV infection saves $370,000 in direct costs over a lifetime.
- More people than ever are living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto.
- Because I can make a difference.
HOW WALKERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE: RANDY'S STORY
Randy, a long-term HIV survivor, knows it's crucial to support programs and services that assist those living with, affected by, and at risk for HIV. This year, Randy's taking his fundraising efforts to greater heights. On August 14, he'll participate in EdgeWalk, Toronto's newest attraction. Strapped to the ledge by a bungee cord, he'll walk the circumference of the CN Tower's roof -- a height of over 1,000 feet.
His goal? $2000.00
The catch? Randy has a fear of heights. He chose to challenge his fear and use EdgeWalk to support his fundraising event, "Conquer Fear, Conquer HIV," on behalf of the 2011 Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life Toronto.
Q: You have a fear of heights. Why did you decide to do EdgeWalk?
A: EdgeWalk seems to be the ultimate test of my fear -- to put my trust into the security of the tether. It's all about positive thinking and believing you can overcome. That is how I have learned to deal with my HIV.
Q: Why do you walk?
A: It's important to support causes close to home and close to your heart. I have lost so many friends and colleagues over the years to HIV/AIDS. We still need to educate and promote the message that HIV transmission can be prevented. I hope to inspire people to take care of each other in any way they can. Small gestures create a mountain of support. I'm hoping that my fundraising idea can continue to be a source of support for ACT.
Q: What advice do you have for potential walkers?
A: Anyone still unsure about joining the AIDS Walk is likely fearful of soliciting sponsors. It's not easy dealing with rejection. But a financial rejection is not a personal attack. Some people I've approached have overwhelmed me with generosity, while others were somewhat reluctant. People have their right to choose what to support and that is just fine.
Walker Worry: "What if my donor doesn't want to donate online?"
Not a problem! We understand some donors prefer to give cash or cheques. Once you've registered online, simply to go your page and print a pledge form to collect donations offline. If you are collecting donations offline, don't forget to update your fundraising total online (and bring these donations with you to registration on Walk day).
Please encourage your donors to donate online if they can. Online giving is secure and provides the donor with a charitable tax receipt immediately.
Check out the 2011 Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaPaiV6z-QE
|
