Two Kelowna groups are joining forces to help get an important message across to students.

The Living Positive Resource Centre and the Central Okanagan Teachers Association have teamed up to promote AIDS awareness in secondary schools during AIDS Awareness Week, which runs November 24 to December 1.

COTA first vice president, Michelle Davies, says the primary concern of educators is to ensure students get the vital information they need.

“This partnership with the Living Positive Resource Centre helps us educate our students not only on the global impact of the AIDS pandemic, but also the impact this has right here at home and the potential impact it could have on their own lives,” says Davies.

She says COTA has donated $1,000 to help promote activities at local schools.

“Students in Grades 10-12 will be given a red ribbon to wear, which symbolizes knowledge of the AIDS pandemic and support for those whose lives have been impacted.”

Davies says teachers will participate in ’Dress Down for AIDS Day’ on November 30.

Karen Alexander, community development coordinator, says there are many planned events coming up this week to promote AIDS Awareness Week.

“The AIDS Art Murals will be on display at the Kelowna Art Gallery until December 8. A Red Ribbon Campaign will be taking place at M.A.C. Cosmetics in the Bay at Orchard Park on December 1 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. And of course, ‘Dress Down for AIDS Day’ takes place November 30,” says Alexander.

All funds raised at AIDS Awareness Week events will go towards education and prevention programs in the Central Okanagan.