The National Down Syndrome Society sponsored the first Down Syndrome Buddy WalkŪ in 1995 in 17 cities in the United States. In 2011 hundreds of Buddy Walks will be enjoyed by individuals with Down syndrome and their families, planned by parent groups and advocates throughout the USA and supported by businesses and local organizations who admire children and adults with Down syndrome.
Coordinated through the National Down Syndrome Society, the Buddy WalkŪ brings families, friends and communities together to celebrate, help increase opportunities and raise awareness about the potential and accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome.
The 2010 New York City Down Syndrome Buddy WalkŪ was held on September 25th. One of the most exciting features of the New York City event is the video shown at Times Square that features children and adults with Down syndrome growing up included in the mainstream of their communities; living, learning, working and enjoying their lives.
There are many ways to participate in your local or regional Buddy WalkŪ whether you are able to attend an event, donate time, or get the word out to your community. There are often short speeches, vendors, food options, games and other diversions before or after the actual walk. Entertainers and other celebrities often make appearances to show their support for children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. Most importantly, people with Down syndrome of all ages have the opportunity to inspire and be inspired by one another; families have an opportunity to introduce themselves to other families; and we all get to know one another just a little bit better.
My son wants to read Buddy Walk pages written by other people who have Down syndrome. He is proud that he has raised money for our local group and the NDSS through the Puget Sound Buddy Walk and enjoys reading how they spend donations from family, friends and our community. He has many interests but recently has become more interested in advocating for children and families. The Buddy Walk has given him the opportunity to express his concerns and viewpoint.
A tremendous amount of effort goes into planning and carrying off these wonderful events with few opportunities for us to recognize and thank those who put in their time and hard work so that the rest of us can have a wonderful time with one another. Thank you!
NDSS.org
About the Buddy WalkŪ
Find a Down Syndrome Buddy WalkŪ in Your State
http://www.buddywalk.org/component/content/article/50/107-walkers-portal.html
Puget Sound Buddy WalkŪ Center Square by EMP Seattle Center Sunday Oct 2, 2011
Michael Jurogue Johnson's
Art Work for Buddy WalkŪ Fundraisers
Michael is a wonderful artist who has Down Syndrome
http://users.psln.com/sharing/Michael/Buddywalks.html
Browse at your local bookstore, public library or online retailer for books about people with Down syndrome like: Gifts 2: How People with Down Syndrome Enrich the World
or its companion, Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives
.
