PRESS RELEASE:
Contact: Jennifer Paganessi
815-272-1068
6th Annual DS Support Chicagoland Buddy Walk to Promote Awareness & Acceptance of Down Syndrome
Westmont, IL—October 12, 2008 - Individuals with Down syndrome, along with their friends and family, will walk in full force on Sunday, October 12, 2008, for the Chicagoland Buddy Walk, organized by DS Support and the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The Buddy Walk celebrates October, National Down syndrome Awareness Month, and promotes the awareness and acceptance of Down syndrome.
Registration and festivities begin at 11:30am, and the walk follows at 2pm at Ty Warner Park in Westmont. Family entertainment includes mascots, bands, face-painting, balloon creations, and a moon jump. There will also be food and a fantastic assortment of raffle prizes. Registration is available both online and on-site. A $15 individual or $40 family donation is suggested.
By promoting awareness and acceptance of people with Down syndrome, DS Support hopes to break down many of the existing stereotypes about the abilities of people with this genetic condition and show that they are more like their non-disabled peers than they are different. All funds raised through the Buddy Walk will benefit local Down syndrome support organizations and the National Down Syndrome Society’s education, research and advocacy efforts.
Call DS Support at 815-272-1068 for more information about participating in the Buddy Walk, or visit their Web site at www.chicagolandbuddywalk.org
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Note: Media representatives interested in covering the event should contact Jennifer Paganessi, at 815-272-1068. Down syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality affecting more than 400,000 people in the United States. Individuals with Down syndrome possess a wide range of abilities and are active participants in the educational, occupational, social and recreational activities of the community.
