Whitman-Walker’s Walk to End HIV postponed to Dec. 1 due to inclement weather
Third annual "Brunch to End HIV" will continue as scheduled from Oct. 27-28
Whitman-Walker Health’s 32nd annual Walk and 5K to End HIV has been postponed from Saturday, Oct. 27 to Saturday, Dec. 1.
The walk and 5-kilometer race were delayed due to concerns over expected inclement weather, particularly high-speed winds, that could pose a danger to participants.
“This weekend could present a significant weather event and safety issues for all those involved in the Walk — walkers, runners, vendors, and other community groups,” Executive Director Don Blanchon said in a statement. “This new date offers us a unique chance to present the Walk as it always should be — namely a community event focused on those impacted by HIV and an opportunity for togetherness and solidarity with community.”
The 3rd Annual “Brunch to End HIV” has not been affected, and will still take place this Saturday and Sunday, October 27 and 28.
Started in 2016 as an additional fundraiser for Whitman-Walker — particularly for those unable to participate in the walk and 5k — the Brunch to End HIV allows people to visit several local restaurants and partake in their brunch offerings.
A portion of the proceeds from brunch on Saturday and Sunday will directly benefit Whitman-Walker’s HIV/AIDS services.
Participating restaurants include: Compass Rose, the Queen Vic British Pub, Declaration, Lincoln Restaurant, Dr. Granville Moore’s, Exiles Bar, and Shaw’s Tavern.
The annual walk and 5K run typically draws thousands of people to Freedom Plaza each year. Many participants choose to raise money by obtaining pledges for every mile they complete along the 3.1-mile course.
The event is preceded by a program featuring music, guest speakers, warm-up exercises, and a light nosh where participants can perk up with some coffee and breakfast before setting off.
Following the race, Freedom Plaza becomes a space for people to socialize and enjoy music spun by live DJs.
By rescheduling the event, Whitman-Walker has more time to raise funds in the hope of achieving this year’s goal of $850,000.
“We fully recognize that inclement weather could be an issue again on December 1, but hold the safety and wellbeing of our communities first in postponing from this weekend,” said Blanchon.
For more information on the Walk & 5K to End HIV or for additional ways to donate, contact David Mallory, senior director of annual giving and 2018 Walk Director, at 202-797-3510 or dmallory@whitman-walker.org.
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