Hilary Duff was the the grand marshall for the Gay Men’s Health Crisis and AIDS Walk New York this weekend on May 17th. Duff and Boyfriend hockey player Mike Comrie did their part and lent their fame for community service at the Gay Men’s Health Crisis and AIDS Walk telling ET “We have a responsibility to educate young people about HIV/AIDS,” Hil has said. “So when I hear about how more young people are getting HIV because they don’t understand the risks of infection, it just seems so tragic and avoidable. I’m fortunate to have the type of relationship that I do with my fans — I can ask them to participate in their communities and I receive a great response… I am grateful that so many of them have decided to join me by donating to the AIDS Walk and even walking with me.”
Hilary had a busy schedule all day, as she hosted the opening ceremony for the walk. She also filmed a short public service announcement video to be aired very soon. “In tough times, it’s even more important for people to get involved. Everyone should find a cause they believe in whether it is something in your local community or something as big a global issue as AIDS.”
The couple joined an estimated 45,000 participants in the 6.2-mile fundraiser in Central Park, which benefited dozens of charities, including Gay Men’s Health Crisis. The walk raised over 5.6 million US dollars for AIDS and HIV-related organizations.
For more info to get involved, visit AIDS Walk NY or The Gay Men’s Health Crisis.