The Seattle AIDS Walk will circle Capitol Hill again marking the 32nd year of the important fundraiser.

Annually drawing thousands of participants, the event is now focused on walkers and pledges — and lunch. Organizers are promising “the biggest picnic our city has ever seen” at the start/finish line in Volunteer Park.

The event benefits nonprofit Lifelong. “Historically AIDS Walks were held to honor lives lost by the disease and walk in hope for a cure,” the organization says about the annual walk. “Times have changed over the past 30 years. Medical advances have changed our fight against HIV and AIDS. Today we care for the health and well-being of individuals living with the disease and help them live the fullest life possible. We also know that increased testing and treatment can prevent new infections, which is why we provide education and outreach to communities at greatest risk of infection.”

In 2016 as the walk reached its 30th anniversary, CHS reported on Lifelong’s transition over the years from the fight to provide comfort to the fight for health and a cure. The event has humble roots. The legend goes that during the first year’s walk, a can was passed around for donations. $42 was collected. The event now raises more than $200,000 in pledges every year.

While the needs around HIV and AIDS have shifted over the years, a Capitol Hill project is underway to mark the lives lost and honor the past. The AIDS Memorial Pathway project will connect Capitol Hill Station’s mixed-use developments to Cal Anderson Park when construction is completed.

The 32nd annual Seattle AIDS Walk begins at 11 AM Saturday in Volunteer Park. You can learn more and make a pledge at endaidswalk.org.