Walking for Change

HIV/AIDS is the fourth leading cause of death in the world.

Over forty million people are infected with the virus.

CARE focuses on creating lasting change with various campaigns, one of which is HIV/AIDS; CARE is working on treating the disease and addressing it as a cause and consequence of poverty [over 143 million children have lost one or both their parents to HIV/AIDS] with programs that:

• "Ensure educational opportunities for children orphaned and made vulnerable by the pandemic. 
• "Protect the rights of vulnerable survivors, such as widows and orphans. 
• "Raise awareness in communities to combat discrimination and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. 
• "Help communities deal with the loss of productive workers who supported the economic and social infrastructure of their societies."

Today, in Austin, we [your BermudaQuest hosts] participated in the AIDS walk. AIDS Walk Austin raises money every year in order to diagnose HIV and provide treatment. This year $159,419.73 was raised. Every $20 donation enough money to provide an HIV. The money raised goes to AIDS Services of Austin and the fundraising teams of Austin's other outstanding AIDS service and education providers.

Getting fired up for the walk!

In line and ready to walk!

Jose-Pierre and Melanie!

"We walk to honor, remember, and to raise funds to address this issue in our community. There are an estimated 6,000 people living with HIV and AIDS in Central Texas. About 20 percent of those 6,000 people are unaware of their status."

By walking, we are helped raise HIV awareness, reduce stigma, and raise funds for life-saving services right here in Central Texas. We walked with our college's team: Alpha Gamma Pi, a chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. Together we helped make a difference, just like CARE.

Phi Theta Kappa: Team Alpha Gamma Pi!

You can join a walk or donate to any organization that strives to help treat and prevent HIV/AIDS. Check out AIDS Walk and save the date for the next walk in your city.

Crossing Congress Ave. Bridge into Downtown Austin

"In memory of my basketball coach who lost the fight against HIV in 2003. Today I walk for you, your son, and the rest of the world who needs help." - Melanie Magdalena