Kelowna - 4th Annual Okanagan AIDS Walk Led by the KARE Bear the 4th Annual Okanagan AIDS Walk left Waterfont Park at 11:00AM, this Sunday September 24th. With over 300 participants the sunny weather set the stage for an excellent day, that help raise awareness for local AIDS Support Groups throughout the Okanagan.

Although the numbers were smaller then expected, the enthusiastic participants over came any feelings that the message that this preventable disease that affects us all is not getting through to the Okanagan Communities.

Mr. Ron Cannon, Kelowna City Councillor and Chair of the 4th Annual AIDS Walk welcomed the participants and participated in the aerobic warm up. With Red Balloons flying, clowns, face painting, the diverse group of participants walked, rolled and strolled the 3 KM walk through Waterfront and City Park concluding at Island Stage.

The balance of the afternoon was spent enjoying excellent music by a the local group the Vocal Point Trio, a moving speech from Barb Hill, of the Westbank First Nations Community, excellent prizes and awards donated by the many generous sponsors, included with a presentation from ACTS of CHOICE, a youth peer education program at the Resource Centre.

Over $25,000 was raised by individuals, team, corporate and small businesses pledges and donations.

The Starbucks Group received Top Fundraising Team with a total of $883.00.

Chris von Schoening of Vernon was the Top Individual Fundraiser with a total of $1670.00.

Thank you to the Okanagan Community for your support.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact Gary Taylor at 250-862-2437 or 868-6987.