BRATTLEBORO — On Saturday, Oct. 5, Brattleboro will host its 11th 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.
The Buddy Walk has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to nearly 300 walks planned for 2019 worldwide. In 2018, more than $14 million was raised nationwide to benefit local programs and services, as well as the national advocacy and public awareness initiatives of NDSS that benefit all individuals with Down syndrome.
This year's Brattleboro Buddy Walk will once again be a celebration of accomplishments and continued goals for raising awareness and promoting inclusion. 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 2019 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 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 family of four that raises $50 or more in pledges for Special Olympics in Windham County. Volunteers are welcome.