On Friday, October 6th, 2023, the streets near 433 Tranquille resonated with steps of solidarity and purpose as ASK Wellness Society organized its annual “AIDS Walk for Life”. A reminder of the Society's foundational cause, the event connected dozens of community advocates and supporters of the cause.
Gathering at the back of 433 Tranquille, enthusiasm and unity was on display. At 11:30 am, the sun was shining as the walk commenced, drawing a line of passion and support down Tranquille Road toward Spero House. Once the walk concluded, attendees were treated to a BBQ served by volunteers, including Cookie Reimer, one of the founding members of ASK Wellness Society. The event saw a total of 92 people connecting and bringing awareness to light.
For those unfamiliar, ASK Wellness Society's roots dig deep into the heart of community service. Founded in 1992 as the AIDS Society of Kamloops, it began as an effort to promote health and wellness and to provide education to the Kamloops community while supporting individuals who were living and dying with HIV/AIDS.
However, as the years went by, the Society’s vision expanded. There were other pressing needs emerging - housing, health, and employment. Believing firmly in the housing-first model, the Society ventured into initiatives to offer individuals stable shelter, enabling them to then concentrate on their health and working toward employment. With the newer focus on the housing-first model and now most recently on recovery and employment efforts, the annual walk allows all attendees to be reminded of ASK's early beginnings. The Society began as a safe haven that provided hope to those who were marginalized and often forgotten. While it has adapted its mission and vision in recognition of the complex, multi-faceted needs of individuals, it continues to be that haven of hope
