About 300 people pounded the pavement in below-average temperatures April 7 to raise money to help fight AIDS.

The annual AIDS Walk fundraiser benefits the Douglas County AIDS Project.

“This has to be one of the biggest shows of community support,” said Laney Allbritten, who is HIV-positive and benefits from the organization’s services. “It’s just really a day of encouragement.”

Entrants had the choice of walking a mile or running 5 kilometers. Most gave at least $20 to participate.

Brent Marrowbone and Jack Hope, both of Lawrence, finished the 5K together. They claimed to be first, with a time of 22:58, though there wasn’t an official finish line.

“I’m competitive, but it’s nice to … help somebody else at the same time,” said Hope, 59, while eating a free breakfast provided at Maceli’s, 1031 N.H., after the race. “I win, they win.”

“I’m here for support,” Marrowbone said. “I don’t compete.”

Some participants carried various signs during the walk to show their support.

About $23,000 was raised through entry fees and other contributions, falling shy of the organization’s $30,000 goal. Still, the event had more participants and raised more money than it has in its approximately 15-year history, said Kristin Brumm, executive director.