Community Corner
Manasota BUDS seeks walkers for 13th annual Buddy Walk
Individuals with Down syndrome, their friends and family, and many other supporters will march in full force during the annual Buddy Walk
Individuals with Down syndrome, their friends and family, and many other supporters will march in full force Saturday, October 18, 2014, at 10:30am during the annual Pumpkin Festival at Hunsader Farms (5100 Country Road 675, East Bradenton) for the 13th annual Buddy Walk®, organized by Manasota BUDS (Bringing Up Down Syndrome) and the National Down Syndrome Society.
Last year, approximately 1,400 walkers participated, raising $70,000 to support the group’s mission. Organizers hope to attract 1,500 walkers and raise $100,000 through this year’s event – registration is now open at the Manasota BUDS website.
“The positive impact of Manasota BUDS on our family has been tremendous,” said current Manasota BUDS president Michael Feduccia, whose son, Andrew, has Down syndrome. “We are a completely volunteer- and parent-run 501(c)(3) organization that has helped more than 250 local families touched by Down syndrome through our programs, activities and scholarships since 2002; the Buddy Walk is our largest fundraiser of the year to support these efforts. It’s a touching, joyous and affirming day for all ages each and every year.”
The Buddy Walk® celebrates October, which is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and promotes the awareness and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome. The Buddy Walk® is a short advocacy walk in which anyone can participate without special training. Other event features will include face painting, live music, children’s activities, clowns, silent auction, raffle, family photography and more. Registration begins at 9:00am; after the walk, participants are free to stay on-site and enjoy the Pumpkin Festival.
“We’re so fortunate to be able to utilize the Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival for this event,” said Feduccia. “We don’t have to worry about parking, security or any infrastructure issues involved with bringing more than a thousand people together – it’s all already in place. We are grateful to the Hunsader family for granting us access to this lovely property and venue.”
Cost is $15 per walker; walkers with Down syndrome and children 2 and under are free. For more information, call Michael Feduccia at (941) 907-0499 or email info@manasotabuds.org. Register and/or donate online at www.manasotabuds.org.
PHOTO ID:
Cameron Cody during the 2013 Buddy Walk
About Manasota BUDS:
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The mission of Manasota BUDS is to provide families with a neutral and supportive forum for sharing and networking, and to promote understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome. The group offers new and expectant parent kits for families expecting a child with Down syndrome, and social and educational programs and activities -- and scholarships for select programs -- for families touched by Down syndrome. For more information, go to www.manasotabuds.org.
