Public Relations

For Immediate Release

Contact: Mark Priceman

National Down Syndrome Society

202-465-3223/[email protected]

***MEDIA ALERT***

National Buddy Walk in New York City Celebrates Down Syndrome Awareness Month

WHAT: The 2015 Buddy Walk in New York City is one of over 250 Buddy Walk events planned in cities across the country this fall. The Buddy Walk was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to promote acceptance and inclusion of all people with Down syndrome.

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22. Registration begins at 12 noon, and the 1 mile walk kicks off at 12:30PM. Tickets are complementary.

WHERE: Central Park at the Great Hill -- entrance at 106th Street and Central Park West.

WHO: 3,500 people are expected to attend. Participants include people with Down syndrome from surrounding towns and around the country, their families, friends, teachers and other supporters.

· Chris Wragge coanchor of "The Early Show," will be in attendance to salute the event participants.

· Cohost Chris Burke who starred as Corky on the TV series “Life Goes On” will be in attendance.

· Also available for media interviews are select families of children and young adults with Down syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Each year, the Buddy Walk touches thousands of lives. When it began in 1995, there were Buddy Walk events in seventeen cities. This year, at least 250 Buddy Walk events are scheduled, with more than 315,000 people expected to participate. Last year’s Buddy Walk events raised more than $13- million to benefit national education, research and advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services. All funds raised through the Buddy Walk support local and national programs.

The National Down Syndrome Society is a nonprofit organization representing the approximately 400,000 Americans who have this genetic condition. NDSS is committed to being the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.