August 21, 2024, The 19th Annual Buddy Walk will take place in Forsyth Park in Savannah, Ga., Saturday, Oct 5, 2024.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 10:00 a.m., and then the Buddy Walk starts at 10:30 a.m. The Family Fun event will be from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 

Participants will walk a mile around Forsyth Park. This event is a time of celebration and community, raising support and awareness for those with Down syndrome. 

The money raised at the Buddy Walk goes towards Camp Buddy, two summer camps in Effingham and Chatham to help students retain their skills over the summer break. It also goes towards LDSS’s monthly Family Support meetings, new parent packets and educational opportunities for local families and advocates. 

Registration for Buddy Walk 2024 is $15. Those who register will also receive a Buddy Walk T-shirt. When registering, you can either join a team or create your own.
https://ldssga.org/buddywalk/ 

Volunteers are needed to help with the event in all aspects. Please inquire with John and Candy Bogardus for more information about becoming a sponsor or volunteering at [email protected] or 912-663-8573. 

The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The vision statement of this organization is to create “a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities.”

The NDSS created the Buddy Walk as part of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in 1995. The first Buddy Walk in Savannah took place in 2006, shortly after the LDSS was founded. Nearly 1600 people were brought to Forsyth Park in Savannah on this first outing. Growing during subsequent years, over 5000 people would attend annually until Covid-19 precautions led to virtual walks in lieu of gathering at Forsyth Park in 2020 and 2021.