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Walk FAQ's

Do I need to know someone with Down syndrome to participate in a Buddy Walk®?
Not at all.  The goal of the Buddy Walk is to promote understanding and acceptance of people with Down syndrome. Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does or just want to show your support, come and join the Buddy Walk.

How can I find out if there is a Walk in my community?
To find out if there is a Walk in your community, you can enter your zip code in the Find A Walk box located at the top of the home page or you can click on the “Find A Walk” link.  Either way, you will find the closest Walk to you.  If you do not see a Walk in your area, you can e-mail the Buddy Walk staff at buddywalk@ndss.org to find out if a local support group has registered a Walk that is not yet posted.


Not everyone in my family is able to walk a mile. Are they still able to participate?
Yes.  Buddy Walk events are open to participants of all ages and abilities.  Each Walk location has places where you can sit down, relax, and watch the excitement if you choose not to walk.  You can also become a member of the cheering section and cheer on the walkers.

 

Is there an age requirement for the Buddy Walk?

All participants are welcome!  From strollers to seniors, all supporters of individuals with Down syndrome are invited to participate.  Buddy Walk events are great places to network with families and learn more about support services available.

I’d like to volunteer at the Walk in my area. How do I get involved?

For information on volunteering at a Buddy Walk in your community, please click on “Find A Walk”. Review the events taking place in your area by clicking on your state or other states in the vicinity of your home.  Click to select a Walk and contact the event organizer that is listed.

There isn’t a Walk in my area. How do I go about starting a Walk?

NDSS has all the tools to help you plan a successful event, from a planning timeline to posters and incentive ideas. Buddy Walks range in size from 50 people to more than 5,000 -- so whatever your time and resources, you can plan a successful Walk for your community! NDSS has developed a user-friendly Buddy Walk Manual that provides valuable information about the Buddy Walk program and how to create the best walk you can.

Download and read the 2010 Buddy Walk Information Packet to learn more about the Buddy Walk program and how to organize a Walk.  You can register a walk online by clicking on one of the “Organize a Walk” links.

Can I bring my dog to the Buddy Walk?
While most walk venues will allow dogs, not all do.  Please speak with the organizer in advance of your local Walk to find out if you can bring your four-legged friend with you. 

Do I have to raise money to participate in the Buddy Walk?

There are no mandatory fundraising requirements for participants of a Buddy Walk.  While most Walks choose to include a fundraising component to raise money for local and national programs, there is no individual requirement beyond the registration fee (if applicable).

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