Buddy Walk 2008
First Annual CCDSS Buddy Walk
Who: The Centre County Down Syndrome Society, families, friends, sponsors, neighbors, members of the community, families of individuals with other disabilities, supporters and you!
What: Our first-ever Buddy Walk “fun-walk” to raise funds for the CCDSS. The event features a one-mile fun-walk, followed by a few hours of picnicking, music, games, and fun. Come out to join the walk, or just join the fun and show your support for individuals with Down syndrome in our community.
When: May 31, 2008, rain or shine. On-site check-in begins at 11 a.m., with the walk starting at 12 noon, and the food, fun, and entertainment lasting until 4 p.m.
Where: Orchard Park, off of Blue Course Drive in State College, PA. Parking is limited, so come early and carpool if at all possible.
Why: The Buddy Walk is the signature event of the National Down Syndrome Society and its affiliates across the country. Last year, more than 250,000 people participated in over 275 Buddy Walks around the country to help raise awareness of Down syndrome and support individuals with DS and their families. In only our first year of existence, the CCDSS is in the process of developing informational print materials and presentations for local healthcare and educational facilities. Additionally, we continue to provide support, both financially and in terms of human resources, to local families who have a family member with DS. This support comes in the form of educational materials, group outings with the kids, person to person contact, and other activities. The Buddy Walk is our primary fundraiser, as well as a great way to get out and meet friends and families in the community.
How: You may participate in the Buddy Walk as an individual or as part of a team sponsoring a particular individual or family. You may also make a general donation on-line or via mail that will help support the work of CCDSS in our area. Simply click on the links to register and/or donate.
Donations/Event Sponsorship: We encourage everyone to donate whatever amount they can, either to the general fund or as part of support for a specific team. The team fundraising concept is designed to foster good-natured competition among families and friends to see which team can raise the most money. All donors will be listed on our website, unless they ask not to be.
Corporations/organizations who wish to become event sponsors may do so with a donation of $500 or more. For that level of support, the donating company will have their company logo printed on the back of all Buddy Walk t-shirts, promotional materials, and on our website. Additionally, those event sponsors will receive a framed certificate of appreciation from the CCDSS. Companies that wish to donate between $250 and $499 will be listed on Buddy Walk promotional materials and our website. Additionally, corporate sponsors are invited to attend the Buddy Walk with promotional materials of their own if they wish.