2026 DSNWV Buddy Walk

The Buddy Walk is an event first organized 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 walk includes a day of entertainment, food, games, music, and activities for all ages and abilities. This is the largest fundraiser for the Down Syndrome Network of West Virginia, and it provides us with the means to perform our core mission:  to enhance the lives of people with Down syndrome. We do this by, among other things, providing support to new and expectant families, assisting with resources for a variety of needs, and educating medical professionals about sharing up-to-date information about Down syndrome and delivering a diagnosis in a compassionate manner. Our Network is growing and expanding, especially with our outreach initiatives, which include providing classroom kits for teachers and parents to help teach students of all ages about Down syndrome and working to establish partnerships with medical practitioners across the state.

Registration includes FREE participation in activities!

Burn off some energy with inflatables, yard games, life-size Angry Birds, and more!

Relax and enjoy some crafts, make a sign for your team (materials provided), or stop by our photo station. Be sure and tag #dsnwv when you post to your social!

Stop by our Resource Fair where vendors and agencies will be set up to provide information on how they can support your family.

10:00am -- Event opens!

Team Captains may stop by Registration and pick up their team shirts. Walkers with Down syndrome should pick up their Buddy Bags from Registration as well. Donations may be turned in, and walk-up registrations are accepted.

Enjoy the variety of activities, inflatables, crafts, and more! Stop by our Resource Fair and learn about different programs and agencies that can support your family. Shop our store and check out our Basket Raffle to try your luck on any of our great prizes!

Food: More info soon!

12:30pm -- Opening Ceremonies

Gather at the stage to hear from our special guests and get ready to kick off the walk!

Directly following Opening Remarks, walkers will be directed to begin the route! Upon conclusion, walkers with Down syndrome will be awarded a medal and cheered across the finish line!

Raffles: Once walkers have returned, raffle winners will be drawn. You MUST be present to win!