DSAJ Annual Buddy Walk® Event
8th Annual DSAJ Buddy Walk®!
Brochure | How to Register | Register Online Now | Sponsorship Opportunities
The Buddy Walk® program is a strong partnership between NDSS and affiliated parent support groups and Buddy Walkgroups around the country. Buddy Walks are creating positive awareness, increasing visibility of people with Down syndrome, strengthening collaborations between local support groups and organizations, and building connections between families.
Buddy Walk Opportunities
Corporate Sponsorships are Available
Corporations and businesses can be a sponsor of the DSAJ Buddy Walk. The sponsorship levels are outlined in the corporate sponsorship proposal. Businesses are also encouraged to form teams and participate in one of the following campaigns.
Dress Down for Down Syndrome
Businesses and schools will participate in this program. Employees and students can donate in order to “dress down” for the day. Participants will also receive a sticker to wear during the Dress Down event.
Buddy Stars
Restaurants, businesses and schools can take donations of $1 to put their name on a Buddy Star. These stars can be displayed to show support and the raise awareness. When notified, the DSAJ will promote Buddy Buck participants on our website.
Dining out for Down Syndrome
Restaurants can choose a time to sponsor a Dining Out event. The time frame of this campaign along with the percentage of sales that will be donated to the Buddy Walk can be determined by the participants. We will provide promotional and informational materials. When notified, the DSAJ will promote Dining Out for Down Syndrome participants on our website and through emails to our entire association.
Dollars for Down Syndrome
Local businesses and community agencies can display a Dollars for Down Syndrome bucket in a prominent place to raise awareness and funds for the Buddy Walk.
What Does A Buddy Walker Do?
Step 1: Register by September 17th in order to be guaranteed t-shirts – Let us know you want to walk! You may register online or fill out the Registration Agreement on the brochure.
(All Walkers must register either online or mail in the Registration Agreement.)
Step 2: Raise Pledges – Use the Buddy Walk® Pledge Form in the brochure to list the sponsors and donations you collect. Or, collect pledges on-line. (Sponsors of pledges do not have to register – unless they want to be a Walker.)
Step 3: Spread the Word! – Invite others to walk with you. Collect the sponsor’s name, phone and pledge money as you go! Give them their own Buddy Walk® brochure, and encourage them to raise their own pledges. By registering on-line you can send out personal emails soliciting donations or walkers.
Step 4: Turn In Your Pledges by Tuesday, September 28th to qualify for the fundraising contest. Pledges submitted after September 28th will not count towards fundraising contests.
Step 5: Smile and Enjoy the Day!
If you would like more information on this event, please feel free to email us or call us at 904.353.6300.
