Alan Cumming Named Honorary Chair of AIDS Walk Central Ohio

AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio) is thrilled to announce actor, activist, and author Alan Cumming as the 2016 AIDS Walk Central Ohio Honorary Chair.�

Cumming, award winning star of stage and screen, author and activist is best known for his roles in "The Good Wife," the "X-Men" film franchise, "GoldenEye" and "Spy Kids." His written works include the novel "Tommy's Tale" and his memoir, "Not My Father's Son."�

ARC Ohio President & CEO Bill Hardy said Cumming's support will help tremendously with raising awareness and encouraging others to take part in the walk.�

"Our work is far from over, but we have never been more optimistic or resolved: an AIDS-free generation is within our grasp, if we remain diligent in our efforts. This is possible thanks to your support," said Hardy. "The Walk is Central Ohio's largest public opportunity to raise awareness and critical funds for HIV/AIDS. By participating, you play a leading role in our success. We need the whole community to come together -- ask your friends and family to walk with you and support your fundraising -- it's that important!"�

The 2016 Robert J. Fass Memorial AIDS Walk Central Ohio will take place on Saturday, April 16 in downtown Columbus at McFerson Commons Park. Benefiting AIDS Resource Center Ohio, Camp Sunrise, Nationwide Children's Hospital FACES Program, The Ohio AIDS Coalition, and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center AIDS Clinical Trials Unit, this year's walk/run is slated to be the largest HIV/AIDS awareness event in Ohio.�

An estimated 23,000 Ohioans are living with HIV/AIDS. Among them, less than one-in-three have achieved viral suppression; getting treatment and have the virus under control. However, with support of events like AIDS Walk Central Ohio, nearly 80 percent of ARC Ohio patients are achieving viral suppression compared to a national average of 30 percent. These individuals have new hope for long, healthy lives.�

Franklin County continues to lead Ohio in rates of new HIV infections, with the majority of new infections occurring in youth ages 13 to 29.�

AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio) is one of the nation's leading community-based, not-for- profit providers of a comprehensive, coordinated and cutting-edge response to HIV/AIDS, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment. It uses a holistic approach to address the physical, emotional and social needs of those living with HIV/AIDS in a way that brings hope, healing and empowerment.

With 13 offices in 10 cities, this ARC Ohio will provide medical care, pharmacy and other direct services to nearly 5,000 HIV-positive individuals, including 1,700 who receive medical care and other services at our highly-acclaimed Columbus and Dayton Medical Centers and Pharmacies. Tens of thousands more are reached though evidence-based testing, prevention and outreach; Camp Sunrise for children; and the Ohio AIDS Coalition.�

Anyone who raises $1,000 or more will have the opportunity to meet Cumming at Columbus' Grand Walker Breakfast at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 16.

AIDS Walk Central Ohio will be held at Saturday, April 16 at McFerson Commons Park (ArchPark), 218 West St. Columbus, OH. Gather at 9 a.m., registration beings at 10:30 a.m., the 5K Run begins at 10:45 a.m., and the 1M and 5K Walks begin�at 11:30 a.m.