Cascade AIDS Project's AIDS Walk Portland

While we're here in the weeds preparing the best AIDS Walk Portland ever, we've been amazed--and gratified!--to see what some of the AIDS Walk team captains are doing to raise money. We love these efforts, because not only do they raise money for Cascade AIDS Project's mission, they help raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Oregon and the continuing need to be tested and to care for and empower those who live with the virus.

Here are just a few examples of some of this year's efforts so far:

Disney Drag Queen Show: One team captain, whose theme this year is Disney characters, talked some local drag queens into putting on a special show with ticket prices going to his AIDS Walk team. Talk about creative!

House Parties: One of the most popular ways to raise funds for AIDS Walk is to hold a house party and charge admission. Often, hosts can get refreshments donated or at cost, and one host even managed to get a flat screen TV donated to raffle off.

Speaking of Raffles: Raffles are ever popular, too. That way a team captain doesn't have to clean the house for a party, and he or she has to do is sell tickets and collect a worthy prize or two for the winner.

Fashion Show: One of our team captains, who incidentally owns a bar, is planning a series of fashion shows. Last year, his shows earned nearly $10,000 for AIDS Walk!

Prizes for Large Donations: Team Captains have come up with great ideas for prizes for large donations, too. One team captain, a mechanic, gave a free oil change to every member of his team who raised more than $250.

We are immensely grateful for their--and your--help. Can you think of other ways to propel your team to the top of the fundraising spire?

Remember, AIDS Walk Portland is coming up: Saturday, September 2, at The Fields Park in Portland.

Links:

• www.cascadeaids.org