Doin’ the Buddy Walk

Down syndrome support group to host area’s first walk for awareness.
Oxford’s first Buddy Walk will take place on October 19 at Bailey Branch Park at FNC.  Sponsored by 21 United of Mississippi, this event looks to attract participation from residents throughout Lafayette and surrounding counties.
“This is a family-friendly event that coincides with Down Syndrome Awareness Month,” says Jenny Rayner, president of 21 United. “Everyone is invited to join in on the fun, not just families who are directly affected by Down syndrome.”
The Sunday afternoon event will start at 1:30 p.m. Good Time Grass will provide bluegrass music at 2 p.m., with the walk immediately following at 3:30 p.m. Singer/songwriter Moon Pie Curtis will perform following the walk at 4 p.m. In addition to the one-mile walk and live music, the event will offer food and beverages, bounce houses, face painting, a fire truck, and t-shirts for participants. 
Walker registration is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 13 and under. Buddy Walk friends with special needs may participate for free. Participants are encouraged to pre-register by calling Jenny Rayner at (662) 380-0577 or sign up online at 21United.org.
Created by three Oxford families, 21 United of Mississippi is a nonprofit organization that advocates the inclusion, value, and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome. Proceeds from the Buddy Walk will be used for new parent packets, educational meetings, networking events, and camp scholarships.
Sponsors for this event are needed, and opportunities exist for businesses and individuals who wish to generate goodwill. To learn more about sponsorship levels, contact Scott Thompson at (662) 816-9898 or thompson@olemiss.edu.