2009 AIDS Walk for Life
In 1986, the British Columbia Persons With AIDS Society (BCPWA) launched the first AIDS WALK in Canada. By 1997, walks were held in more than 120 cities across Canada and are now coordinated on the same day in September under the name WALK for LIFE. The WALK continues to increase community awareness and to raise funds for direct services for persons living with HIV and AIDS.
This year, the BCPWA encouraged particpants to "Be bright! Be bold! Wear RED!" Red was chosen as the colour of the AIDS Ribbon for its connection to lifeblood and the idea of passion, "so show your passion for the cause!" While serenading AIDSWalk participants from the Third Beach steps on the Sea Wall, "Team VMC" raised over $5000.00 for the 2009 AIDS Walk for Life.
Through fundraising and singing, the VMC has supported the AIDS Walk since its inception. Many of us fondly remember our brothers in song who have been taken from us over the years by AIDS/HIV. We are glad to provide encouragement and comfort to those living with AIDS/HIV, through our music and our annual fundraising efforts for the charities the AIDSWalk benefits.
-- Dan Worseley, VMC AIDSWalk liaison & 2nd tenor