News Summary
Savannah is preparing for the 20th Annual Buddy Walk at Forsyth Park on October 18, aiming to attract around 3,000 attendees. Organized by the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society, the event will raise awareness for Down Syndrome while supporting local programs like Camp Buddy. The Buddy Walk, which had previously raised $35,000 for community services, also celebrates the uniqueness of individuals with diverse abilities. Registration is open for participants and volunteers alike.
Savannah is set to host the 20th Annual Buddy Walk on October 18, 2025, at Forsyth Park, drawing an anticipated crowd of around 3,000 attendees. The event, organized by the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS), aims to promote Down Syndrome awareness while supporting programs designed for individuals with the condition. The day will commence with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m., followed by a one-mile walk starting at 10:30 a.m., and family-friendly activities scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participants can register for the Buddy Walk at a cost of $15, with all proceeds directed towards LDSS initiatives, including Family Support meetings and Camp Buddy. This camp, located in Effingham and Chatham counties, serves individuals aged three and older with Down syndrome, helping them maintain their skills during summer breaks.
Last year, the Buddy Walk generated $35,000, largely due to the generous support from local sponsors. This funding has allowed LDSS to continue its essential services that benefit families and advocates in the community. The importance of the Buddy Walk extends beyond fundraising; it aims to celebrate the uniqueness of individuals with diverse abilities and raise public awareness about Down syndrome.
Event Details and Participation
Participants and supporters can register for the event through the LDSS website, with options to join existing teams or create new ones. Volunteers are encouraged to help with various tasks on the day of the event, and sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses wishing to support this cause. For further inquiries about volunteering or sponsorship, interested parties can reach out to John and Candy Bogardus.
Historical Context
The Buddy Walk initiative first launched in 1995 as part of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, with Savannah’s inaugural event occurring in 2006, shortly after the founding of LDSS. Attendance at this event saw remarkable growth, reaching over 5,000 participants annually until the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated virtual events in 2020 and 2021. The return of the Buddy Walk in 2025 marks a significant milestone as it celebrates two decades of community support and advocacy.
Benefits of Participation
The funds raised during the Buddy Walk will support various educational opportunities for families and advocates, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in fostering understanding and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome. This celebration of diversity not only uplifts those directly impacted by the condition but also engages the broader community in meaningful discussions and connections.
The 20th Annual Buddy Walk represents a commitment to championing individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the resources that support their well-being and development.
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Additional Resources
- Grice Connect: Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society announces 20th Annual Buddy Walk
- Wikipedia: Down syndrome
- WJCL: Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society’s 20th Annual Buddy Walk
- Google Search: Down Syndrome
- Savannah Now: Do Savannah Editor’s Picks for October 14, 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Down Syndrome
- People: Savannah Guthrie reflects on beloved uncle for World Down Syndrome Day
- Google News: Buddy Walk
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
