The 2012 OKC AIDS Walk, Run and Pooch Parade are set for Sunday, Sept. 23 at the Myriad Gardens in downtown Oklahoma City.

Walk teams and individuals may register by visiting www.aidswalkokc.org. Teams and individuals may also sign up the day of the walk. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. at the Myriad Gardens and the walk steps off at 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. for the fourth annual 5k run sponsored by Dell at the Bricktown Ballpark. The run begins at 9 a.m. Registration is $20 in advance and $25 the day of the run. Register at www.aidswalkokc.org.

New this year is the addition of a Pooch Parade. Registration for the parade begins at 12:30 p.m. with the fashion show starting at 1 p.m. All dogs in the parade must be in costume and on a leash. Trophies will be given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. The registration fee is $5. The OK Save a Dog non-profit organization will again this year be in attendance to promote adoption.

Trophies will be given for the team with the most walkers, the walk team that raises the most money, the individual who raises the most money and the individual or team who has raised the most money online at FIRST GIVING.

“The FIRST GIVING website may be used to setup your fundraising page and e-mail family and friends so they may donate to it,” said AIDS Walk Board President John Greer. “It is safe and very easy to raise funds for the cause.”

In addition, vendor space is free to anyone wanting to set up at the event. Interested individuals and organizations should send an email to info@aidswalkokc.org to request space. Tables and chairs must be provided by vendors.

Since 1998, the AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City has locally distributed more than $500,000 to fund local programs focusing on HIV/AIDS prevention, education, and direct services to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. Last year grants totaling $60,000 were allocated to support these programs. For more information, visit www.aidswalkokc.org.