Despite the gloomy economy and weather, the 24th annual AIDS Walk New York—which took place May 17 in and around Central Park—raised $5.6 million in donations and attracted a record turnout of 45,000, reports Out in New York City.

Since the very first AIDS Walk in 1986, the event has raised more than $111 million for Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC)—the oldest AIDS service organization in the United States—and dozens of other local ASOs. The star-studded event boasted several television, film and Broadway celebs, including actress and singer Hilary Duff; Carson Kressley (How to Look Good Naked); Brooke Smith (Grey’s Anatomy); Michael Urie (Ugly Betty); Norm Lewis (The Little Mermaid, Les Miserables); and Sarah Dash (Labelle).

“Our community’s heartfelt and relentless support of this year’s AIDS Walk allows GMHC to provide the resources needed to continue to meet the increasing demand for vital prevention, care and advocacy services,” said Marjorie Hill, PhD, chief executive officer of GMHC. “Today’s powerful results show that tough times, indeed, will not break our stride.”