Annual Buddy Walk & Harvest Fair Raises Money For Down Syndrome Programs

From Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress:

On Sunday September 18, 2016, Matt, Kate, Will, and Nate Stockwell will join hundreds of champions of the Down syndrome community at Lake Chauncy & Fields for the MDSC’s 4th Annual Buddy Walk & Harvest Fair.

The event is expected to bring together about 600 people, including individuals with Down syndrome, family members and friends throughout central Massachusetts. The event will raise both awareness about Down syndrome and critical funds to support programs and advocacy.

The Stockwell family will be celebrating their loved one with Down syndrome. Will is a happy and energetic two year old who loves to keep his parents on their toes. He has just mastered the art of walking and we are so excited to see him participate in his (and our) first Buddy Walk!

Registration includes walk festivities, event t-shirt, and light refreshments. The Buddy Walk & Harvest Fair is a celebration that includes live music, children's activities, a one-mile pledge walk, family entertainment, networking opportunities with local disability organizations, and a chance to talk to MDSC Self-Advocate Ambassadors.

This year we are walking with our theme, “iBelieve” in mind. We will carry this theme of empowerment through our three Buddy Walks around the state.

The concept of believing relates to virtually everything we do. We BELIEVE that new and expectant parents should have access to the latest, most accurate information about Down syndrome. We BELIEVE that people with Down syndrome deserve to have access to the best education possible. We BELIEVE that people with Down syndrome deserve good jobs that allow them to earn money. We BELIEVE that people with Down syndrome have a right to self-determination and access to supports no matter what their age. And We BELIEVE in tackling the most significant challenges facing our loved ones with Down syndrome.

The Buddy Walk & Harvest Fair event will include:

• Live entertainment by local favorites including Kayla Daly and Friends.
• Post-walk treats courtesy of Uhlmans Ice Cream!
• Fall-themed Games &; Activities for everyone! Fire Truck &; Police Car!
• An auction and raffle that includes Beats Headphones, Spa package, etc.

Funds from the walk allow the MDSC to invest in and expand our range of model programs, including Parents First Call, Advocates in Motion, Self Advocate Advisory Council, Annual Conference, Educators Forum, Allen Crocker Self-Advocate Internship Program and advocacy and public awareness initiatives.

Families will be attending from throughout central Massachusetts. Contact the MDSC at jkomyerov@mdsc.org to be put in touch with a family in your coverage area. Families can register here.

Photo courtesy of Kate Stockwell, Will Stockwell featured in photo