Columbia Buddy Walk® set for October 22

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month and the time to join Family Connection of South Carolina for its 18th Annual Columbia Buddy Walk®. More than 2,000 people are expected to gather for the family-friendly event from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, October 22 at Saluda Shoals Park East, 6071 St. Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29212.

The family friendly event is free and features games, bounce houses, food, music, vendors and fun for all ages. Registration and Team Check-In begins at 1 p.m. and the actual walk begins at 2:15 p.m.. The Special Buddy Final Lap will take place around 3:30 p.m., followed by special presentations.

Approximately 87 Special Buddies, along with 2,000 of their family members and friends, are expected to participate this year, coming together to raise awareness and promote acceptance and inclusion of those with Down syndrome. The effort supports Family Connection’s mission and believe that ALL children and individuals can be rock stars, when loved, supported and included.

There’s still time to get involved. Register to walk (free or a $10 registration gets you a walk shirt while supplies last) and enjoy the fun afternoon at the park or make a donation at https://www.ds-stride.org/columbiabuddywalk.

For more than 27 years, Family Connection of South Carolina has been serving families throughout our state – making connections, raising awareness and promoting inclusion whether a child has Down Syndrome, a rare diagnosis, autism or a developmental delay.

Since 1995, the Buddy Walk® has become the premier advocacy event for Down syndrome in the United States. It is also the world’s most widely recognized public awareness program for the Down syndrome community. The name Buddy Walk® promotes inclusion between friends of all abilities.

For more information or to register, visit https://www.ds-stride.org/columbiabuddywalk or call (803) 252-0914.