BRATTLEBORO — On Saturday, Sept. 30, Brattleboro will host its ninth annual Buddy Walk.
The Buddy Walk was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.
It has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to nearly 300 walks planned for 2017 worldwide. In 2016, more than $14 million was raised nationwide to benefit local programs and services as well as the national advocacy and public awareness initiatives of the National Down Syndrome Society that benefit all individuals with Down syndrome.
This year's Brattleboro Buddy Walk will be a celebration of accomplishments and future goals for raising awareness and promoting inclusion in our community. Everyone is welcome to join this special celebration at the town common at 10 a.m. in Brattleboro.
In addition to a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate, the 2017 Brattleboro Buddy Walk will include a keynote address, lunch, live music, games, prizes, and vendors that support inclusion for individuals of all abilities.
With the support of all participants, the Brattleboro Buddy Walk will not only help raise awareness and promote inclusion for people of all abilities but will also raise important funds for Special Olympics programs here in Windham County. Providing opportunities for achievement is an important part of helping create an inclusive community.
Registration for this year's Brattleboro Buddy Walk is free for individuals and any families of up to four who raise $50 or more in pledges for Special Olympics in Windham County. Join the fun and register at www.BrattleboroBuddyWalk.org or call Jim Nicholson at 802-258-4699.