MightyMeals Sponsors the 2024 DSANV Buddy Walk®
This Sunday, October 6th, the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV) will host their 20th Annual Buddy Walk®—and MightyMeals is proud to be one of the sponsors of the event! We had the pleasure of speaking with Heather Padgett, Executive Director of DSANV, to learn more about this incredible organization and its signature event.
Founded in 1972, DSANV’s mission is to provide individuals with Down syndrome and their families the resources they need to live fulfilling, empowered lives. “We support over 900 members across Northern Virginia, providing programs from initial diagnosis all the way through adulthood,” Heather shared. DSANV’s work also fosters community acceptance by showcasing the abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome.
The Buddy Walk® is a cornerstone of DSANV’s mission, promoting awareness, acceptance, and inclusion. “The Buddy Walk began in 1995 to build community and raise funds for essential services,” said Heather. This year, the event celebrates its 20th anniversary with the goal of raising $125,000—money that goes directly into DSANV programs supporting parents, as well as social, wellness, and career development activities for those with Down syndrome.
Looking to make this the biggest year yet, DSANV encourages participation from everyone, whether it’s by joining a team, attending the walk, or donating. As Heather emphasized, “The Buddy Walk® accounts for 50% of our annual budget. It’s because of amazing partners like MightyMeals that we can continue providing our much-needed supports.”
Want to get involved? There’s still time to register for the walk, cheer on the participants, or support DSANV in other meaningful ways! Visit the event page to learn more and help make this year’s event a record-breaking success!