Even though the Chilton County Arthritis Walk is over, donations are still being accepted, said Kristin Whitehurst, Alabama Chapter president of the Arthritis Foundation.

Contributions as of Friday totaled $22,100. Volunteers have until the end of the year to reach their goal of $24,000.

“We’re almost there,” Whitehurst said. “We’re still taking donations.”

The Alabama Chapter is participating in a project called TETRAD, a research effort led by UAB that focuses on rheumatoid arthritis. The chapter has committed $150,000 to the project over three years, Whitehurst said.

Donations to the Arthritis Walk also help fund Camp MASH, a children’s summer camp in the Mobile area for children affected by juvenile arthritis.

The camp’s bus will make another stop in Chilton County next year. The camp is scheduled for June 15-19.

Whitehurst said future fundraising projects will be announced.

“Anyone who wishes to donate can visit the Walk Web site,” she said.

The site’s address is www.2009chiltoncountyarthritiswalk.kintera.org.

For more information, call the Arthritis Foundation’s Alabama Chapter at (205) 979-5700.