Buddy Walk®

presented by Down Syndrome Indiana

Register yourself and your team TODAY!

Why Walk?

Buddy Walk® was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) as an event to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. This event is officially licensed by the National Down Syndrome Society to support groups and organizations across the country to positively influence on a local level the awareness of the Down syndrome community. Walks usually occur in October in observance of Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

Nationally, Buddy Walk® is the most widely recognized public awareness program for the Down syndrome community. Locally, it is currently the largest fundraising event for Down Syndrome Indiana, with this year’s goal set at $230,000 for corporate and team sponsorships.

The Buddy Walk® has three primary goals:

To promote acceptance & inclusion of people with Down syndrome
To raise funds locally and nationally for education, research and advocacy programs
To enhance the position of the Down syndrome community, enabling us to positively influence local and national policy and practice

In Indianapolis, the Buddy Walk® presented by Down Syndrome Indiana is a 2.6 mile no-fee walk along the canal beginning at Celebration Plaza in White River State Park. Proceeds from the walk help fund Down Syndrome Indiana programs and services that help individuals with Down syndrome and their families. These programs and services include, but are not limited to:

New Parent Information & Resource Packets
Educators’ Resources
Social Activities
Support for Research and Advocacy
Informational and Educational Conferences
Camp Hi-Lite Scholarships

The 15th Annual Buddy Walk® in 2012 was a record-breaking success! We hosted the most teams in the event's history with nearly 5,500 participants! Together we raised more than $200,000 to support the mission of Down Syndrome Indiana! We, at Down Syndrome Indiana, are especially grateful for the support of all donors, sponsors, team captains, walkers and volunteers at this marvelous event - it would not have been possible without you! Thank you!

16th Annual Buddy Walk® - Saturday, October 12, 2013

Once again, we will gather to celebrate in Celebration Plaza of White River State Park in beautiful downtown Indianapolis, with the walk beginning at noon along the scenic canal loop. This family-friendly event is open to all children and adults with Down syndrome, their families, friends and thousands of local supporters. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 12, 2013 and be prepared to have a great experience!

If anyone has interest in joining the Planning Committee for the 16th Annual Buddy Walk®, please contact the DSI Buddy Walk® Coordinator via email or by calling the DSI Office at (317) 925-7617.

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