Stephanie Klett, secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, has been appointed honorary chair of the 24th annual AIDS Walk Wisconsin, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5, at Milwaukee’s Summerfest Grounds.
Klett, known for serving as the Emmy-award winning host of the Discover Wisconsin TV program, has been a champion of AIDS education, research and support resources for 25 years. In 1992 when Klett was crowned Miss Wisconsin, she devoted part of her platform to an “Attitude on AIDS” campaign that sought to distinguish HIV/AIDS myths and facts.
She has also contributed more than $125,000 to charity organizations like the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin through her Spotlight on Wisconsin fundraiser.
“We have 72 gorgeous counties in this state, and I count myself lucky to have traveled to all of them,” Klett said. “However, it’s important that everyone know that HIV has been reported in every single Wisconsin county. With thousands of people living with HIV in Wisconsin – including mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, coworkers, grandparents and friends – there is no better or more important time for everyone to be a part of AIDS Walk Wisconsin.”
The walk, produced by the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, ranks as the state’s largest AIDS fundraiser. In the past 23 years, it has raised more than $11 million. Proceeds support HIV prevention, care and treatment services in Wisconsin.
This year, a new 5K run option will be included in the day’s lineup of activities to diversify the ways advocates can participate.
Past AIDS Walk Wisconsin honorary chairs include Milwaukee Brewer Ryan Braun, Green Bay Packer Clay Matthews, musician Bon Iver, actor Danny Glover, actress Bette Midler, and Basketball Hall of Fame star Earvin “Magic” Johnson.
Summerfest Grounds, where the fundraiser action will unfold, are located at 200 N. Harbor Dr. in Milwaukee.
For more information about walking or sponsoring a walker/runner, visit www.aidswalkwis.org.
