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Getting Started

The Buddy Walk was established by NDSS in 1995 and has grown to be the world’s largest and most recognizable Down syndrome awareness program, with 275 Walks taking place in 49 states and 7 countries in 2009. Every year 250,000 walkers collectively raise approximately $10 million which is used to support local programs and services as well as national initiatives.  What most people do not know is that the majority of Buddy Walk organizers are volunteers who recognize the need for more inclusion in their communities, and they work all year planning a meaningful and educational event for individuals with Down syndrome and their supporters.

 

Thank you for your interest in starting a Buddy Walk in your community.

The Buddy Walk name, logo and program are trademark properties of the National Down Syndrome Society and can only be used with the express written consent of NDSS. Consent may be given to approved and registered Walk organizers at the discretion of NDSS. All other unauthorized use is unlawful and may be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Permission to use the Buddy Walk name and logo is granted on a yearly basis to preserve and protect the integrity of the Buddy Walk program.  Each sponsoring organization must register their intent to hold a Walk each year and agree to the terms and conditions set forth in the Buddy Walk Licensing Agreement. Any Walk that fails to agree to or comply with the Licensing Agreement will result in a loss of all Walk privileges.

The Buddy Walk program provides a special and unique partnership between NDSS and local Down syndrome support groups through a network of resources and materials. NDSS will provide your walk:
  • Up to 75 free color posters to help you promote your Walk and up to 100 free brochures to distribute at your Walk (Details on how to request them will be provided by the Buddy Walk office)
  • Promotion of your Walk and website on www.buddywalk.org, the #1 searched website for the Buddy Walk, which gets more than 2,000,000 hits per year
  • NDSS staff members available to assist you in all aspects of your planning endeavors
  • A comprehensive Organizer's Manual to guide you through the Walk planning process
  • Fundraising advice, publicity tips and media guidance, in addition to general help, to all event organizers and committee members by NDSS staff
  • Access to a special section on the Buddy Walk website where you can download the Organizer’s Manual, Buddy Walk logos, templates and letters, view and use successful materials from other Walks, and update your Walk listing
  • A customized radio PSA recorded by local talent and a Buddy Walk TV PSA featuring actor John C. McGinley and other nationally recognized celebrities to promote your Walk. (Information regarding the 2010 PSAs and how to request them will be provided by the Buddy Walk office in the spring)
  • The NDSS National Policy Center offers guidance for the design of advocacy exhibit tables that feature current information about NDSS policy initiatives and priorities and ways families can get involved in legislation locally
  • Information on purchasing Buddy Walk incentive prizes, participant and volunteer shirts and promotional items at discounted prices through our preferred vendor
  • Opportunities to work with regional and national partners, when available (Information will be provided as partnerships are secured)
  • Organizers and committee members are invited to attend the annual Buddy Walk Conference presented by NDSS and co-hosted by a local group to share best practices and quality information.  For information on the 2010 Conference, please click here.
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