AIDS Ride for Life

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead

 

North County Trailway

Taughannock State Park

In 6 1/2 weeks, on 9/10/11 my Partner in Crime and I will be taking on a 100 mile bike ride around Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, NY.  I have never done anything before even remotely resembling the task I've decided to take on, but it is both a challenge and a good cause, one that supports my adopted hometown. Donations collected through the ride go to support STAP, the Southern Tier Aids Program and the work that they do.



Founded in 1984 as a local response to the HIV epidemic, the Southern Tier AIDS program provides HIV and Hepatitis C prevention, education, and outreach services to individuals and communities as well as comprehensive care services to people living with HIV/AIDS. They serve eight counties from nine office locations and all their services are free and confidential.Their services focus on the health and well being of HIV+ persons with programs ranging from Support Groups, Transportation services, Crisis Management, Housing services and Secondary Prevention.

Last year, the 12th Annual Ithaca AIDS Ride for Life had 330+ riders who raised over $225,000. the Southern Tier AIDS Program relies on the money raised from special events, like the Ride, to provide unrestricted funds that enable flexibility in programming and services for clients in need.  This year, facing major state cuts in STAP's funding, donations are more important than ever in supporting the programs STAP provides.


Every little bit helps towards my, and ultimately STAP's, fundraising goals.  Even if all you can donate is $5 or $10, that 5 or 10 dollars makes all the difference in the world. 

  

Donations to team Llama Llama Duck can be made on my FirstGiving Page at: 
 http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/meghanphair/aidsrideforlife2011