Grand Rapids AIDS Walk:
Each year, the AIDS Walk Michigan takes place in numerous sites on the same weekend, and Grand
Rapids is one of these sites. AIDS Walk Michigan is a non-profit organization that began in 1998
to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and to raise money for AIDS services in participating
Michigan communities. The local agencies that benefit from AIDS Walk Michigan serve nearly 60% of
the 15,500 Michigan residents living with HIV and AIDS. All of the money raised by a
community remains in that community to support its local AIDS services.
National Hispanic AIDS Awareness Month:
From September 15-October 15 of each year, National Hispanic AIDS Awareness Month is observed. Its purpose is to raise awareness and promote prevention against HIV/AIDS in the Latino community. More specifically, the goals of the month are to request access to healthcare regardless of immigration status and to talk frankly with individuals and families about sexuality, drug use and the fears and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.