CHOP’s Buddy Walk Raises Record-breaking Funds

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia's 17^th Annual Buddy Walk^® & Family Fun Day raised a record-breaking $281,000 and counting for the Trisomy 21 Program.

More than 2,800 participants, including families affected by Down syndrome and community supporters, as well as our Patient Champions, participated in the three-hour event on Sunday, Oct. 7, at Villanova University Stadium.

The family fun day was filled with exciting activities for the entire families, including moon bounces, games, character appearances, balloon animals, food, entertainment, and a robust sweepstakes and silent auction.

The event began 17 years ago as a way to raise funds, promote acceptance and inclusion of people with trisomy 21, and celebrate families and individuals with Down syndrome. The inaugural Buddy Walk^® took place in November 2002, and funds raised helped establish CHOP’s Trisomy 21 Program.

As the sole fundraising event for the Trisomy 21 Program at CHOP, the Buddy Walk^® raises crucial funds to support the program year-round, while celebrating children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. The event also supports the National Down Syndrome Society.