The Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Society will take over USS Alabama Battleship Park Saturday for their annual Buddy Walk.

The Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Buddy Walk is the annual fundraiser for the organization. Whether you have Down Syndrome, know someone who does or just want to show your support of people with developmental disabilities, all are welcome to participate.

The fun kicks off at 8:30 a.m. when registration opens. Participants can form a team, join an existing team or register as an individual for $20. Along with the one-mile walk, the event features games, special guests, music, food and more. The 2021 walk attracted more than 1,000 people.

The Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Society held the first Buddy Walk in 2008. The purpose of the event is to promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down Syndrome and raise money to support programs.

The Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Society was established in 1981 to ensure that all individuals with Down Syndrome in Mobile and Baldwin County have every opportunity to achieve their full individual potential. Of the funds raised at the annual Buddy Walk, 93% stays with the local organization and 7% goes to the National Down Syndrome Society for national advocacy and support.

Locally the funds support:

• Expectant and new parents
• Playgroups and support groups
• Social activities like movie dates, art classes, ballet shows and concerts
• Purchase of specialized equipment for physical therapy
• Advocacy on a local, state and national level

For more information on the Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Buddy Walk, visit ds-stride.org. For more information on the Coastal Alabama Down Syndrome Society follow their Facebook page.