On average, 5,000 people become infected with HIV daily. Many of these individuals aren't aware of the infection, and unknowingly spread the disease to other partners.

Please join me at the Indiana AIDS Walk on Sunday, September 23 at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center (450 West Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202). Even though it is for a serious cause, it also will be a fun afternoon, with a walk along the canal plus entertainment, food and drinks, and a chance to hang out with me! The event starts at 11 a.m., and the Walk steps off at 1 p.m.

Now for the serious part. The Walk raises money for the Gregory R. Powers Direct Emergency Financial Assistance (DEFA) Fund. DEFA provides funds for emergency shelter, utilities, food, medicine, transportation, and other critical needs of those living with HIV/AIDS.

I hope you will sign up to be a part of the 2018 Indiana AIDS Walk to support those living with HIV/AIDS in our communities. If you cannot attend, will you consider making a donation to support my participation?

Your financial gift may buy a prescription for a child of a mother living with HIV/AIDS. It could help a released inmate purchase an air mattress for their unfinished studio apartment. It might be used to replace the battery in an electric wheelchair. It could pay for a dentist to replace a lost front tooth before a job interview. Or cover the cost of the bus pass to a doctor's appointment.

I am commited to reducing the infection rate in Indiana, and I have donated $100 to the cause. I will also be walking in the Indiana AIDS Walk on Sunday, September 23. Will you support me in this effort? Join me in making a difference when it is needed most. Register or donate to the 2018 Indiana AIDS Walk today!

I look forward to your support!