New Directions Down Syndrome Association is gearing up for its 22nd Annual Buddy Walk ® on Saturday, September 24 at Pasley Park in Sioux Falls. Children and adults with Down syndrome, their families, and tons of buddies will be walking in Sioux Falls to promote understanding and acceptance of people with Down syndrome. In addition to the half-mile walk around the park, there will be entertainment, activities, food, and fun!
The Buddy Walk® was established by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995 and has grown to be the world’s largest and most recognizable Down syndrome awareness program with over 225 walks taking place in 50 states and select international countries. In the past year, 300,000 walkers collectively raised $12 million, which is used to support local programs and services as well as national advocacy initiatives.
Locally, New Directions serves 3,500 members in South Dakota and parts of Minnesota and Iowa by providing a financial assistance program, packets to new and expecting parents, networking opportunities, a Regional Conference for Educators, and so much more.
