WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif.—Team Wicked, led by Wicked Pictures performer and director Jessica Drake, raised thousands of dollars for the 30th Annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles, surpassing its original goal. Accumulating $14,585 in total donations for the October 12 event, Team Wicked ranks as the 15th highest fundraiser in 2014. This year’s 10 kilometer walk marks the fifth consecutive year Drake has reprised her role as a “Star Walker” and the third year she’s organized Team Wicked on behalf of Wicked Pictures; Team Wicked has raised over $53,000 during those three years.
“I love supporting AIDS Walk LA and APLA,” said Jessica Drake. “Over the years as a participant, I’ve seen them make amazing progress helping those with HIV and taking part in research to prevent the spread of the disease as well. After doing the walk alone the first two years, I realized just how much we could accomplish by bringing Team Wicked together, and as always, I am SO proud of the team and SO grateful to Steve and Wicked Pictures for the support. I’m also thankful to everyone who donated their time and/or money. Thank you."
Composed of Drake, Wicked Pictures contract performer Asa Akira, and Wicked Pictures director Brad Armstrong, Team Wicked also included adult industry notables Allie Haze, Kylie Ireland, Victoria Rae Black, Anikka Albrite, Mick Blue, David Lord, Jack Napier, and Steviee Hughes.
“This was my third AIDS Walk and this year we landed in the Top 15,” said Brad Armstrong. “That's pretty impressive considering we're going up against huge corporations like Toyota and Paramount Pictures. I also think it's a great way for people in the adult business to show commitment to social issues, and I applaud AIDS Walk LA for being open-minded enough to let us participate where other charities have shunned us.”
Steve Orenstein, founder of Wicked Pictures, also praised the team for its fundraising efforts, and thanked Jessica Drake for using her celebrity platform to impact the lives of others.
“I’m really proud of Team Wicked for coming together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by AIDS and HIV,” said Orenstein. “Jessica uses her voice as a way to spread social consciousness, and the team exists thanks to her. I’m honored to have office staff—and amazing directors and actors, such as Brad and Asa—who continue to donate their time to the walk. The team succeeds because of everyone’s involvement.”
In addition to her charitable work, Jessica Drake is a highly sought after sexual wellness speaker and educator who lectures at universities and leads global seminars and workshops. She is the writer, producer, and director of the video series Jessica Drake's Guide to Wicked Sex, which has received critical acclaim from adult industry authorities including AVN and Fleshbot.com, as well as The Huffington Post.
AIDS Walk Los Angeles has drawn more than a half-million participants, who have collectively raised more than $72 million in its 27 years. The event, which has served as a model of grassroots fundraising and community activism for organizations across the United States, is sponsored by AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA). It is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by HIV disease, reducing the incidence of HIV infection, and advocating for fair and effective HIV-related public policy. APLA provides care and HIV prevention services throughout Los Angeles. For more information, click here and here.
