HARLINGEN — Although the Pride month of June is already over, the Valley AIDS Council is hosting a virtual fitness challenge to raise funds for the organization and continue to celebrate.
The challenge is not an in-person event but a way to make a pledge virtually.
People can use a fitness tracker to participate and keep track of their runs, walks, swims or whatever fitness exercise they want, along with a financial donation.
The main goal is to raise $10,000.
The challenge ends July 22 and people can register at www.charityfootprints.com/RGVpride.
Elias Cantu, Community Liaison for VAC, said several events were organized during Pride month that included entertainment and information about the services provided at the clinic, located at 2306 Camelot Plaza Circle.
“Events for Pride have been ongoing for several years, and the last one occurred in McAllen in person,” Cantu said.
“The wrapping up of the Pride month celebrations was a social event at the Harlingen Convention Center with a special guest from Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Ongina. We try to do outreach for HIV testing, where the community can get information about HIV and getting tested for STDs,” he said.
Cantu added the clinic wants people to learn more about Casa De Orgullo, which is a program for LGBTQ youth.
“This is located in McAllen and opened on National Coming Out Day. It is a virtual program. A college ready workshop with UTRGV occurred to promote this program. It is about creating a safe space and diversity, promoting inclusivity as well,” he said.
Most recently, VAC had a City of Brownsville proclamation issued for Transgender Visibility Day, presented by Brownsville Mayor Trey Mendez.
The Hidalgo County Commissioners’ Court presented a proclamation on June 1 to kick off Pride month. It proclaimed June 2021 as Pride Month in Hidalgo County.
“It sends a strong message to the community. There is more visibility now, and all of our events are in collaboration with South Texas Equality Project as well as the AIDS Education Training Center,” he said.
