Walk to End Global Poverty at Memphis PartnershipsInAction Walk

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, October 9, 2011. On October 9, 2011, over 1,000 walked to end global poverty in the 17th annual Partnership Walk at Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee. The Memphis Partnership Walk  is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation U.S.A. (AKF USA) to raise awareness and funds that reduce poverty, hunger, illiteracy and poor health in Africa and Asia.


Memphis’s 2011 Walk raised $515,000. 100% of the funds raised at Partnership Walk go directly to projects sponsored by the Foundation; not a cent is spent on administration.


The Walk featured lively entertainment and activities for all ages celebrating the diversity of world cultures. Activities included a live band to warm up the crowd, a kids' corner with balloons and face painting, diverse entertainment and dances. The Walk also included a Village in Action displaying how AKF USA projects help communities to become self sufficient.


The Walk also attracted many high-profile guests, civic leaders and local media personalities, including U.S. House Representative Steve Cohen; Collierville Mayor Stan Joyner; Shelby County School System Superintendent John Atiken; and Memphis Grizzlies Guard Tony Allen. Memphis Mayor A.C. Wharton gave the keynote speech, saying: "So many folks are on the border of despair. It is organizations such as Aga Khan Foundation that not only come in and help but give hope until help can come."


Read the entire press release here.