Walk to Stop The Spread

— Special to TFW

“We’re not seeing a decrease in the number of infection rates. That’s why people should care about this issue in Northwest Arkansas.”

These are the words of president of the HIV Arkansas support and advocate group, Michael Burks when talking about why the group is hosting the second annual HIV Awareness Walk being held Sept. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Jones Center for Families in Springdale.

Last year’s walk was instrumental in bringing much needed awareness to the issue, he said, and he hopes this year it will do the same. The money raised helps to fund the efforts of HIV Arkansas in supporting those who have been diagnosed with HIV through support groups, financial assistance and education.

Half of the proceeds will go to The Northwest Arkansas Regional HIV Clinic that offers services to patients whether or not they have health insurance.

An open forum will be held during the event with guest speakers from the Arkansas Minority Health commission, the Arkansas HIV/AIDS Minority Task Force, ARCare, JCCSI, Community Clinic, NWA Hope and Gigi Cantrell who will all focus on the need for awareness of the breadth of this issue in our community and state.