Events planned to raise awareness of AIDS pandemic

World AIDS Day is Dec. 1. In recognition of the three million people who die each year, and the 6,000 children who are orphaned each day, World Vision-Chicago is holding a number of events and activities to raise awareness of the AIDS pandemic. These events are free and open to the public.

Locally, an AIDS Walk for Orphans will begin at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 1 at Family Life Church, 270 E. Chicago Ave., Elgin.

Community members will take 6,000 steps, approximately three miles, through Elgin, in solidarity with the 6,000 children who will be orphaned that day by AIDS. For details, call the church at (847) 717-4878.

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

For more information, visit the group's Web site at www.worldvision.org.