Led by the KARE Bear, the 5th Annual Okanagan AIDS Walk departed Waterfront Park, in Kelowna at 12:00 noon, this Sunday September 23, 2001. With over 250 participants, the sunny weather set the stage for an excellent day that helped raise awareness throughout the Okanagan.

A special thank you to the 5th Annual "Presenting Sponsor" - INTERIOR SAVINGS and the many individuals, teams, corporations and small businesses that raised pledges, gave donations and the many gifts in kind.

Although the numbers were smaller than expected, the enthusiastic participants enhanced the feelings that the message of prevention and awareness of this disease is now being heard throughout the Okanagan.

Although HIV/AIDS infection is on the upswing, the Okanagan community is getting the messages that this preventable disease affects us all.

The balance of the afternoon was spent enjoying excellent music by "Vocal Point Trio". A moment's silence for the recent terrorist tragedy in the USA and a candle lighting ceremony for recent individuals who passed away from HIV/AIDS were part of the walks program. A puppet show by the Vernon Disability Resource Centre was also a highlight.

Individuals, team, corporate and small businesses pledges and donations raised over $25,000.00.

• Team Bernard Callebaut "Chocolate Chips" were the Top Fundraising team with a total of $5 062.00
  
• Tracy Hansen was the Top Individual Fundraiser with a total of $3 617.25