HARRISBURG, Pa.-  On September 20, the American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA, helpkidswithAIDs.org) participated in a summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The summit was in conjunction with the foundation’s Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up charity event, an event that allows participants to engage in activities such as hiking, climbing, running, and cycling to raise awareness for children affected with HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

The climb began September 15 and finished September 21.  AFCA’s team partnered with the climbing company Summit Expedition and Nomadic Experience (SENE) for the expedition up Kilimanjaro. The team climbed to different camps along the mountain, reaching a high base camp of 15000 feet, and finally sumiting the mountain at 19,340 feet. The team of seven has raised over $30,000 and will continue to fundraise until the end of the year, with a goal of $35,000 for the whole team.

Tanya Weaver, executive director for AFCA comments, “Thanks to everyone who made this possible. without faithful donors and sponsors, the climbers, SENE, and countless others, it wouldn't have happened.  Thanks for making a lifetime dream for the seven climbers become a life for the children we serve.”

AFCA would like to mention some specific sponsors who make the climber’s trek comfortable: Mountain Khakis, Larabar, Darn Tough Socks, and Merrell.

For more information about the Climb Up Kilimanjaro event or to register for the 2010 Kilimanjaro Team, visit: www.climbupsokidscangrowup.com or www.climbupsokidscangrowup2.blogspot.com