'How wonderful it is that no body need wait a
single moment, before starting to
improve the world..."
                              -Anne Frank
Buddy Walk
of Buffalo Niagara
"Touching Hearts...Opening Minds...
Changing Lives Together..."
"What we love to do and 350,000 reasons why"

The Family & Friends Down Syndrome Association of Niagara County, Inc. prepares for their annual
fun raising family event, The Annual Buddy Walk of Buffalo-Niagara. The Buddy Walk of
Buffalo/Niagara was formed in 1997 as a kickoff of the national program started in 1995 in
celebration of the lives of people born with Down Syndrome and recognize October as  the National
Down Syndrome Awareness month when most Walks take place. Through our Buddy Walk of
Buffalo/Niagara efforts, The FDSA of Niagara County is committed to supporting and enhancing the
quality of life and realizing the potential of all people with Down syndrome. It is the mission of The
Buddy Walk of Buffalo Niagara:
•        To promote awareness and understanding about the positive contributions that individuals
with Down Syndrome make to their communities;
•        To help raise funds locally to support development of programs and activities that enhance the
quality of ones life and inclusion of people with Down Syndrome in all aspects of community life
including education, employment, leisure and recreation, quality health care, transportation, and
independent living opportunities;
•        To help raise funds to continue nationwide research efforts to find cures and improve medical
intervention that will enhance the lives of millions of people living with congenital health problems
directly related to Down syndrome.
•        To provide a fun end of summer event bringing families together to celebrate and form lasting
friendships.

The Buddy Walk has become the leading venue for raising positive awareness about people with
Down Syndrome and it has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to well over 275 walks in 2007. Since 1995,
more than 955,000 people have participated in the Buddy Walk program and at least 300,000 more
are expected to participate worldwide this year. Locally, we have grown from a small committee of 3
parents in Niagara County to a network of nearly 400 families representing the WNY area. Last year
alone, the National Buddy Walk program raised more than $6.5 million to benefit national education,
research, and advocacy initiatives as well as local programs and services. Every dollar donated to
the National Buddy Walk supports both local and national programs. However, the majority of
proceeds raised in the local grassroots Buddy Walk of Buffalo Niagara remains locally to fund
program development, services, education, and advocacy efforts.

There are more than 350,000 people living with Down Syndrome in the United States today. Millions
of people’s lives are touched by someone with Down Syndrome including family members,
educators, employers, health care professionals, peers, and others. Down Syndrome affects people
of all ages, races, and economic levels. It is the most common occurring genetically altered
developmental disability accounting for about one in every 800 to 1,000 births. Quality education
programs, a stimulating home environment, good medical care, and positive support from family,
friends, and the community at large enable people with Down Syndrome to develop their full
potential and lead fulfilling lives as contributing members of society.  

Please help us to continue to reach our neighboring communities and families. We are asking for
your support this year by getting the word out about the Buddy Walk of Buffalo-Niagara and join us
on the day of our celebration. Your support will certainly make a difference in reaching more
families and continue our mission, thank you!