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Buddy Walk®

The Buddy Walk® was established by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.

The Buddy Walk® has three primary goals:

  • To promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome;
  • To raise funds locally and nationally for education, research and advocacy programs; and
  • To enhance the position of the Down syndrome community, enabling us to positively influence local and national policy and practice.
DSNO Buddy Walk® featuring Pat Casey
DSNO Buddy Walk® 2010
September 26, 2010
Millenium Park, Lake Oswego

Featuring Pat Casey
Oregon State University Beavers Baseball Coach

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Buddy Walk® Registration

Additional Buddy Walk® Facts

  • The Buddy Walk® has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to more than 300 expected in 2010 across the country and around the world.
  • At least 250,000 people are expected to participate in more than 280 Buddy Walks this year.
  • Since 1995, more than 2,000,000 people have participated in the Buddy Walk® program.
  • Last year alone, the Buddy Walk® raised more than $9.5 million to benefit national education, research and advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services.
  • The Buddy Walk® program is supported at the national level by the National Down Syndrome Society. Local Buddy Walk® events are organized by NDSS Affiliates, parent support groups, schools, and other interested organizations and individuals.
  • Most Buddy Walks take place from September through November, to recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.
  • John C. McGinley, who plays Dr. Perry Cox in the hit NBC show Scrubs, is the 2009 National Buddy Walk® Spokesman. Mr. McGinley is both an accomplished actor and the proud father of Max, his seven-year-old son who has Down syndrome.
  • Anyone who wants to support acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome can participate in the Buddy Walk®.