AIDS Walk Africa 2007 -

Anyone can participate in AIDS Walk Africa 2008! Past walkers have come from throughout the United States and around the world. Participants have one thing in common: a tremendous amount of heart, spirit, and dedication to fighting the global pediatric AIDS pandemic through their collective fundraising efforts.

How many people will participate in the event?

The Foundation expects between 40 and 45 people to participate as walkers in AIDS Walk Africa 2008. Joining this group on the ground will be Foundation staff members, medical personnel, community and business leaders, health care professionals, and special guests, bringing the group total to over 60 people.

How long are the walks each day?

The length of each day's walk will vary depending the day's activities. Participants can expect to walk up to 20 kilometers (approximately 12 miles) each day.

What is the difficulty level of the walks each day?
The terrain ranges from dirt roads and inclines to lush, well-traveled paths. Walkers can walk with pace groups of similar ability and may have an option to walk shorter distances on certain routes.

How many days will I be Swaziland if I participate in AIDS Walk Africa 2008?

The walk will begin on the morning of June 30 and will conclude on July 5th after breakfast. However, we encourage participants to arrive a few days early to adjust to the local time zone and setting.

How does the Foundation use the funds raised through AIDS Walk Africa 2008?
All revenues from AIDS Walk Africa 2008 will help support the Foundation's lifesaving programs for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS around the world.

How much does it cost to register?
Participants are required to submit a $1,000 non-refundable deposit to secure their space in AIDS Walk Africa 2008. This deposit is used for lodging, meals, and all in-country travel expenses during the walk and does not count toward the overall fundraising goal of $15,000.

What if I want to sign up with a friend?

The Foundation has announced a special incentive fundraising goal for teams of two. Instead of raising $15,000 each, two-person teams — which can comprise of spouses, siblings, or even friends — will be responsible for raising a combined total of $25,000. Don't miss this chance to experience the journey of a lifetime with a loved one! Contact Liam Dall (ldall@pedaids.org/202-448-8479) for more information.

What are my personal expenses as a participant in AIDS Walk Africa 2008?
Included in your registration fee are lodging, meals, and travel expenses in-country for the duration of the walk. Prior to the trip, participants are expected to pay for any travel supplies, health vaccinations/medications, passport/passport renewal, travel insurance, and the transportation costs to and from Swaziland. On the ground in Swaziland, participants are required to pay for accommodations and any expenses incurred prior to the start of the walk on June 30, 2008, and immediately following its conclusion. This includes accommodations the nights of June 29 and July 5.

What is the deadline to register for AIDS Walk Africa 2008?

Space for AIDS Walk Africa 2008 is limited to 40 to 45 participants and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in participating, please contact the Foundation's Walker Liaisons: Liam T. Dall at LDall@pedaids.org or 202-448-8479 or Maisie Cunningham at MCunningham@pedaids.org or 202-448-8446. They will be happy to provide you with additional information. Space cannot be held without the $1,000 deposit.

What materials will I receive when I register as a walker?
Each registered participant receives a binder with materials to guide them in their fundraising, educate them on the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation's global efforts to eradicate pediatric AIDS, and provide health and travel information to prepare for this adventure of a lifetime

What are the accommodations like during the trip?
Accommodations will be double, triple, or quadruple occupancy lodge rooms. More information on specific accommodations will be available soon.

What will I carry during the daily walks?
Participants will need to carry a day pack large enough to hold bottles of water, rain gear, extra clothing, first aid supplies, food, and miscellaneous personal items. Some walkers may find carrying a hydration pack (i.e., Camelback) helpful.

What supplies will I need to bring?
All registered walkers will be sent a suggested supply list inside their trip binder. This list includes recommendations on clothing, personal items, equipment, and other gear.

When is my minimum of $15,000 in donations due to the Foundation?
Each walk participant's minimum of $15,000 must received at the Foundation by May 30, 2008. Those who have not raised the $15,000 by May 30, 2008, will have any remaining balance charged to their personal credit card.

Is it possible to do all my fundraising online?
Yes! Each participant receives a personalized Web page, which allows them to send out email messages to their contacts with a Web site link that sponsors can click to make secure online donations. The Web site platform also allows participants to keep track of sponsors and recognize those who have sponsored them through an "honor roll" on their AIDS Walk Africa 2008 site.

How are my sponsors recognized by the Foundation for their donations?
All donors to AIDS Walk Africa 2008 receive confirmation of their tax-deductible donation from the Foundation. For those who send checks to the Foundation, an acknowledgement letter from the Foundation will be sent as confirmation of their donation. Donors who make a donation online with a credit card will receive an acknowledgement letter by e-mail. This e-mail confirms the donation and also serves as a receipt for tax purposes

Can I accept matching gifts from companies to help in my fund raising?
Yes! Many employers sponsor matching gifts programs and will match any charitable contributions made by their employees. The Foundation's 501(c)(3) tax identification number is 95-4191698.

What happens if I start raising money but decide not to participate in the event?
Participants who raise money to support AIDS Walk Africa 2008 may have circumstances arise that prevent them from participating in the event. However, all funds raised will still be used to support the Foundation's lifesaving programs for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS around the world.

Who can I contact with additional questions about AIDS Walk Africa 2008?
If you have further questions, please visit our Web site, www.pedaids.org, and search for "AIDS Walk Africa 2008." You may also contact Walker Liaisons, Liam T. Dall at LDall@pedaids.org or (202)448-8479, or Maisie Cunningham at MCunningham@pedaids.org or (202)448-8446.