Columbia Community Celebrates 25th Annual Buddy Walk Supporting Families with Down Syndrome

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Celebrating 25 Years of the Buddy Walk!

On a sunny Sunday, the vibrant community of Columbia came together to celebrate a special milestone—the 25th annual Buddy Walk presented by Family Connection of South Carolina. This annual event not only raises funds but also shines a light on families who have members with Down Syndrome, creating a wonderful atmosphere of support and love.

A Journey Towards Hope

Among the many inspiring stories shared, one stood out that we couldn’t help but feel touched. Meredith Felder, the ambassador for Buddy Walk, recalled the challenging early days when her daughter Claire was diagnosed with Down Syndrome shortly after birth. “When I first heard the diagnosis, I was overwhelmed,” Meredith shared. “But then someone came into my life and said, ‘Hey, we’re a buddy. We have Down Syndrome too.’ That moment filled me with hope at a time when I really needed it.”

Meredith’s story is one of resilience and embracing the journey. She continued, “Initially, it was hard. But we learned that it wasn’t a bad thing; it was just something we needed to navigate. Eventually, I decided to embrace who Claire was and embrace the diagnosis.” It’s this same spirit of community and support that drives families like hers to participate in events like the Buddy Walk, providing encouragement for others who find themselves in similar situations.

The Event Fun

As the event took place at Saluda Shoals Park, approximately 100 “buddies”—the affectionate term for those diagnosed with Down Syndrome—joined together with their friends and family to walk the scenic track. The energy was electric, with smiles all around as participants celebrated their uniqueness and sense of belonging.

The goal of this year’s Buddy Walk was to raise $50,000, funds that go a long way in supporting the various services offered by Family Connection. Jack Garbinsky from Family Connection emphasized how crucial these funds are. “The money will help support services we offer to families across the state, including assistance with school education plans, navigating the healthcare system, peer-to-peer support, and a range of training and workshops for families,” he explained. The resources provided by Family Connection are completely free to families, and right now, there’s no waiting list—making it easier for families to access the help they need.

Making a Difference

Each year, Family Connection serves over 6,000 families throughout South Carolina, and this year, they proudly announced the Felder family as the ambassadors for the event. “Sometimes, when dealing with the unknown, you may feel isolated,” Meredith reflected. “It’s essential to have that support system to remind you that you’re not alone.”

As the walk wrapped up, every buddy was recognized for their participation with a special award. The highlight of the day? Watching Claire’s bright smile as she received her recognition! “We are grateful to be part of Family Connection again. They’ve made such a difference for us,” Meredith said. “It’s been exciting to give back during the years that we can.”

The Community Spirit Continues

Even though the Buddy Walk event has concluded, the spirit of giving continues! Family Connection is keeping the fundraising efforts alive until the end of the month. Community members are encouraged to contribute to this noble cause that supports families with special needs. Every bit helps—and contributes to a brighter future for families like the Felders.

In a world where support makes all the difference, events like the Buddy Walk remind us just how much community means. It’s not just about raising funds; it’s about coming together, fostering hope, and being there for one another.