NOTICE:  Online registration is now closed. You may still donate to a team online, and registrations will be welcome on the day of the event. Stop by the Registration Tent when you arrive at the walk.

Join with others from your community in supporting Down syndrome awareness by taking part in Bismarck’s 9th-annual Designer Genes Buddy Walk on Saturday, September 29^th at the State Capitol in Bismarck. Registration and entertainment will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the approximately 1-mile walk kicking off at 11 a.m. Pre-registration is not necessary and no registration fees are collected from walkers. The walk promotes Down syndrome awareness and is supported by well-appreciated community sponsors. Walkers who wish to donate $10 or more will receive a walk t-shirt.

WHAT: The Buddy Walk was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995 to promote acceptance and inclusion of all people with Down syndrome. This year the 2010 Designer Genes Buddy Walk was one of at least 275 Buddy Walk events scheduled from mid-September through November, with more than 250,000 people expected to participate.

WHEN: Saturday, September 29^th. Registration and entertainment begins at 10:00 am, with the walk beginning at 11 am.

WHERE: State Capitol Grounds, Bismarck – Registration will be set up at the Capitol Steps and the walk will be conducted around the Capitol loop.(600 E Boulevard Avenue)

WHO: About 1,500 people are expected to attend. Participants include people with Down syndrome from around the state, their families, friends, teachers, coworkers and other supporters.The general public is encouraged to attend and show their support for people of all abilities.

Volunteers Needed!

Designer Genes has been in existence for close to 30 years, starting with a core group of families in the Bismarck-Mandan area.  Today, the Designer Genes support network has over 200 members who are individuals with Down syndrome and their families.  The Designer Genes Buddy Walk is in it's 9th year and continues to promote awareness of the incredible potential of individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities.  While fundraising is not the main focus, the Buddy Walk does help Designer Genes reach out to individuals with Down syndrome and their families through their programming.  They join other Buddy walks across the country which raised more than $10.5 million dollars to benefit national education, research and advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services. All funds raised through the Designer Genes Buddy Walk support both local and national programs.  Check us out at:  www.designergenesnd.com