WHAT: The Buddy Walk™ was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to bring together a wide range of concerned individuals to reach out to friends, family and co-workers to promote awareness and inclusion for people with Down syndrome. It has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to more than 270 in 49 states and 7 countries in 2007. Hundreds of thousands of people walk from coast to coast and around the world each year. The Buddy Walk is a heart-warming, wonderful event that celebrates the abilities of people with Down syndrome!

WHEN: November - stay tuned for exact date!! Registration begins at 5:00 pm, and the one-mile Walk kicks off at 6:00 pm. Following the Walk, participants will enjoy an evening of fun and celebration with live music, arts & crafts, games, clowns, refreshments and more.

WHERE: The 8th Annual Houston Buddy Walk will go along the Buffalo Bayou trails behind Wortham Center and end up at Jones Plaza about 1 mile where the Buddy Bash will begin!

WHO: About 1,000 people are expected to attend. Participants include people with Down syndrome from the Houston area and across the country, their families, friends, teachers, co-workers and other supporters.

Celebrity guests will include:

• Fox News anchor Greg Groogan, our Grand Marshall kicking off the event.
• Recuerdo 106.5 Fm On-air Personality Cesar Augusto
• Mrs. Texas America Queen 2008, Nicole Lambeth, with a motivational speech
• The Non-Toxic Band performing their hit songs
• Chirivizko Power performing Tropical Spanish hits
• Motivational Speeches by Peter Hogaboom and a self-advocate 

WHY:  About our Organization
The Down Syndrome Association of Houston is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization. Our
mission is to build a brighter future for children and adults with Down syndrome. The funds raised by the Houston Buddy Walk will allow us to continue our programs, as well as develop new ones. Here are a few of our services:

• Provide information and support to new parents
• Promote community disability awareness activities
• Hold monthly informational and educational meetings
• Networking for Dads and Moms via specific support gatherings
• Support the Down Syndrome Clinic in Texas Children’s Hospital
• Partner with other disability groups to sponsor conferences
• Publish a beautiful monthly newsletter, DSAH Today!
• House a growing library, a toddler room, a nursery, and hold our meetings in our new Resource Center!
• More information can be found at www.dsah.org .

To Sign up a new team, join a team, or simply donate, go to:  www.houstonbuddywalk.org
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