What is the Buddy Walk®?
The Buddy Walk® was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995 to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. The Buddy Walk® has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to nearly 275 walks planned for 2013 worldwide. In 2013, more than $12.1 million was raised across the country and around the world to support local programs and services, as well as national advocacy and public awareness initiatives of NDSS that benefit all individuals with Down syndrome.
How does the event work?
Check-In and On-Site Registration for the Manasota BUDS Buddy Walk® opens at 9:00 a.m., which is when the program starts with DJ Stancilitis providing music, announcements and the crowning of the King and Queen. 11:15 a.m. is the official start time for the one mile walk. At 1:00pm, we host a Walk Celebration in the staging area. During the Walk Program, participants can visit vendor booths, Buddy Gear, Face Painting, kid- friendly activities, bid on Silent Auction items and purchase Raffle tickets. There is so much more for the whole family to enjoy!
When is the next Manasota BUDS Buddy Walk®?
We will be celebrating our next Manasota BUDS Buddy Walk® on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Hunsader Pumpkin Festival. Check out our registration website: www.manasotabuds.org/buddywalk.
Online Registration Closes at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 20th. YOU CAN STILL REGISTER ON-SITE THE MORNING OF THE BUDDY WALK - OCTOBER 21st AT 9:00 A.M.
**To be guaranteed a Buddy Walk T-shirt, you must register online no later than September 15, 2017.
Our Mission and Vision: To provide families with a neutral and supportive forum for sharing and networking, and to promote understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome.
CONGRATULATIONS TO HOPE HEMMER WHO WON FOUR PASSES TO THIS EVENT!
