Special to the Herald

SAVANNAH -- The 19th Annual LDSS Buddy Walk will take place in Forsyth Park in Savannah, Saturday, Oct 5.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m., and then the Buddy Walk starts at 10:30 a.m. The Family Fun event will be from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Participants will walk a mile around Forsyth Park. This event is a time of celebration and community, raising support and awareness for those with Down syndrome.

The money raised at the Buddy Walk goes toward Camp Buddy, two summer camps in Effingham and Chatham counties to help students retain their skills over the summer break. It also goes toward LDSS’s monthly Family Support meetings, new parent packets, and educational opportunities for local families and advocates.

Registration for Buddy Walk 2024 is $15. Those who register will also receive a Buddy Walk T-shirt. When registering, you can either join a team or create your own at www.ldssga.org/buddywalk. Click on this link to sponsor or volunteer.

Contact John and Candy Bogardus for more information at ldssgabuddywalk@gmail.com or call 912-663-8573.

The National Down Syndrome Society created the Buddy Walk as part of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in 1995. The first Buddy Walk in Savannah took place in 2006, shortly after the LDSS was founded. Nearly 1,600 people came to Forsyth Park on this first outing. Growing during subsequent years, more than 5,000 people would attend annually until COVID-19 precautions led to virtual walks in 2020 and 2021.