Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society to host 21st annual Buddy Walk at Forsyth Park

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society is hosting its 21st annual Buddy Walk on Saturday, Oct. 17, in Forsyth Park.

The event, held during National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, celebrates individuals with Down syndrome while raising money for local outreach and family support services across the Coastal Empire.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m., followed by the one-mile walk around Forsyth Park at 10:30 a.m. Family-friendly activities, live music, speakers, and cheering stations from Savannah College of Art and Design athletic teams will continue until 2 p.m.

Proceeds from the walk directly fund LDSS programs, including Camp Buddy—a summer program in Chatham and Effingham counties designed to help students maintain academic, physical and social skills between school years. Funds also cover new-parent packets and educational advocacy meetings throughout the year.

“This event is all about coming together as a community to support and celebrate individuals with Down syndrome,” Candy Bogardus, LDSS president, said. “Every step we take at the Buddy Walk makes a real difference in the lives of families across our region.”

The first Savannah Buddy Walk was held in 2006, drawing thousands of participants to Forsyth Park each fall.

Registration is open for individual walkers, teams, sponsors, and community volunteers on the organization’s website at ldssga.org.