The Green River Area Down Syndrome Association (GRADSA) will host its 29th annual Buddy Walk on Halloween, bringing individuals with Down syndrome and the community together for a day of celebrating awareness.
The event will take place on Oct. 31 at McConnell Plaza along the Owensboro riverfront.
GRADSA board president Christie Ashby said the day will begin with a 5K run at 9 a.m., followed by Buddy Walk festivities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Ashby also said the Buddy Walk serves as the organization’s annual fundraiser, which helps provide free programming for individuals throughout the year as well as resources and support for new parents who receive a prenatal or postnatal Down syndrome diagnosis.
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and the Buddy Walk gives the community time to come together and celebrate the individuals and families GRADSA serves.
“We really just like to spend those few hours as a community, spreading awareness, then celebrating our individuals,” Ashby said.
The event will feature several activities for attendees, including performances by local groups, pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, balloon art, face painting, a petting zoo, and a photo booth. Those in attendance are welcome to wear a Halloween costume to the event.
Ashby said a spirit tunnel featuring athletes from Owensboro-area middle and high schools will lead the Buddy Walk. Participants will walk along the riverfront, starting and ending at McConnell Plaza.
Following the walk, registered participants and their teams will receive a complimentary lunch.
Registration is open for both the 5K run and Buddy Walk. Those interested in participating can register online here.
