From the stage at the conclusion of the AIDS Walk, the dollar total of funds raised is on display. | DONNA ACETO
PHOTO ESSAY BY DONNA ACETO | In its 31st annual AIDS Walk, Gay Men’s Health Crisis, the world’s first HIV services organization, drew a crowd of more than 30,000 to Central Park for a 10-kilometer hike to raise money to fight the epidemic.
At the conclusion of the May 15 event, the group estimated it had raised more than $4.5 million, which supports GMHC and more than 40 other community-based organizations serving those living with HIV and AIDS throughout the metropolitan area.
According to GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie, the annual event has raised a total of more than $145 million through its three-decade life.
GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie with Tony-winner Bebe Neuwirth, now appearing on CBS’ “Madam Secretary,” and her TV co-star Erich Bergen. | DONNA ACETO
GMHC provides prevention outreach, services, care, and advocacy for more than 9,000 clients annually, and a current focus of its efforts is encouraging HIV-negative people who believe they may be at risk for transmission to consider PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, which when taken as prescribed is highly effective at preventing infection.
LaChanz, a star of “If/ Then” and “The Color Purple,” sings “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” | DONNA ACETO
Jay Armstrong Johnson, a star of ABC’s “Quantico,” sings “If We Only Have Love.” | DONNA ACETO
Rosie Perez, of “The View,” addresses the AIDS Walk Crowd. | DONNA ACETO
PHOTO BY DONNA ACETO
PHOTO BY DONNA ACETO
PHOTO BY DONNA ACETO
