Northeast Ohio Buddy Walk®
Great Lakes Science Center
$189,260Raised of $278,500
Join Us to Celebrate 25 Years!
Join the Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio as we unite for a common cause and raise funds at the 2025 Northeast Ohio Buddy Walk®. Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does, or just want to show your support, take the first step and donate or register today! Help us spread the word; all are welcome for our day of celebration!
Since 2001, the Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio Buddy Walk® has been an annual celebration. The inaugural event was held in October at the Great Lakes Science Center during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and we're excited to return to the very venue where it all began. Over the past 25 years, our community has grown from just a few families to over 1,150, and we continue to offer more than 50 programs that support individuals with Down syndrome at every age and every stage.
The Buddy Walk® was created by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. 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 NDSS Buddy Walk® has grown to over 275 walks, been attended by over 330,000 walkers and raised over $14.4 million towards national advocacy.
Blast Off to the Northeast Ohio Buddy Walk®!
REGISTRATION BLITZ IS TAKING OFF!
10 Days Only: September 2 – 11
Remember when the Buddy Walk® was at the zoo? Those were some wild memories—and now you have the chance to make new ones! One lucky registrant will win a Zoo Membership of their choice: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo OR Akron Zoo!
How to enter:
1 Chance = $25 registration as an individual or join a current team
2 Chances = $25 registration as a Team Captain and launch a brand-new team
Don’t monkey around—register today and you could be exploring the zoo all year long!
T-Shirts
T-shirts are available while supplies last, so register early to lock in your preferred size. Want your shirt shipped in time for the big day? Be sure to register by August 22, 2025.
For Team Captains
When you register, you can sign up all of your team members at once, or create your team page and invite them to join later.
For Team Members
Your captain may register you directly or send you an email invite. If they’ve already created your team, just follow the join instructions.
For Individuals
Flying solo? You’re still part of the mission! Register yourself, start fundraising, and get ready for an unforgettable day.
Thank you to our Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Supporting
Supporting
Supporting
Supporting
In Kind
Donations
Buddy Walk® 2024 Video
We are incredibly grateful to our 2024 Master of Ceremonies, Sara Shookman, who, alongside our Presenting Sponsor, Walmart, helped make the day a seamless and unforgettable experience!
