Final AIDS Walk Colorado figures show donations down (6145)

Final figures released by the Colorado AIDS Project show that about 8,900 people participated in 2002 AIDS Walk Colorado, raising about $760,000. Those figures were down from about 10,000 walkers and $850,000 raised in 2001.

"In light of the present economy, the fact that the walk was moved up to August for the first time in 15 years, and the increasing public apathy about HIV and AIDS, we are pleased with the walk results," said Deirdre Maloney, executive director of Colorado AIDS Project. "However, the hard truth is that Colorado AIDS Project will need to make cuts because of this difficult year. It's a tragic situation. The need for our services is greater than ever, and yet our funds continue to go down as more people turn away from this devastating disease."

Fund-raising for the AIDS Walk officially continues through September 20. Maloney urges walkers, volunteers, and other interested community members to continue or start fund-raising efforts before the deadline to help minimize cuts in the agency's services. Donations also can be made online at www.capwalk.org.