The 14th annual Buddy Walk, aimed at spreading awareness, inclusion, and love, is set to take place this Saturday at the Jacksonville Commons Recreation Center. Sponsored by the Down Syndrome Network of Onslow and Carteret Counties, the event will run from 9 a.m. to noon. This year’s theme, “Together We Shine Brighter,” has already attracted more than 300 participants, with registration still open.
Jessica Martinez, vice president of DSNOCC, encouraged community involvement, saying, “I would tell them to come out and support Down Syndrome Awareness, and come out there and hang out with me out there too. Because I’ll be out there.”
Matt Flint, a DSNOCC board member, emphasized the event’s inclusive nature: “This is just to show that – hey – all walks of life, we come together for a great day, and we shine brighter when we have inclusion in our community – and it’s just a, it’s a great event.”
Organizers highlight that funds raised will directly support programs promoting education, advocacy, and lifelong opportunities. Click here for registration details.