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 2011 worldwide. In 2010, more than $11.2 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.

WVDSA has sponsored a Buddy Walk^® since 2002 at the beautiful Riverfront Park in Salem. We enjoy the views of the Willamette River and all the park has to offer including Salem's Riverfront Carousel and the adjacent play area. We host information booths about our group, Down syndrome awareness, and the NDSS. There are games and activities for children, self-advocate speakers, and the walk around Riverfront Park. Lunch is served to all attending. It's one of the highlights of the year for our group!

Some additional information regarding the Buddy Walk^®:

• 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.