[How To Start A Team]

When is the Lowcountry Buddy Walk?
The Lowcountry Buddy Walk will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 12:00–4:00 PM at Etiwan Park on Daniel Island. The walk will begin at 3:00 PM.

How much is registration?

• Advance online registration: $12
• Week-of/day-of registration: $16
• Individuals with Down syndrome: Free
• Children 2 and under: Free

What does registration include?
Registration includes event entry, family-friendly activities, and the official Buddy Walk t-shirt (if registered by Sept. 30th).

Can people register the day of the event?
Yes. Day-of registration will be available at the event for $16, but advance online registration is encouraged.

Do I have to create a team?
No. Creating a team is optional. You may register individually, join an existing team, create a team in honor of a loved one with Down syndrome, or make a general Buddy Walk donation.

Can multiple families create one team together?
Yes. Multiple DSAL families are welcome to create a joint team together.

How do I support the Buddy Walk?

• Register for the walk
• Create or join a team
• Donate to a team
• Make a general Buddy Walk donation
• Volunteer
• Sponsor the event
• Donate a prize for fundraising incentives

Where does the money raised go?
A portion of Buddy Walk proceeds supports the National Down Syndrome Society and its national advocacy, awareness, and education efforts. The remaining funds stay local with DSAL to support programs, family support, advocacy, grants, emergency support, outreach, events, and resources across the Lowcountry.

How can my team make the day extra special?

First and most importantly: there is no pressure to do anything extra. Your attendance and participation are what matter most. Buddy Walk is a day to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome, connect as a community, and enjoy being together.  If this feels like one more thing on the to-do list, skip it! 

But if you are looking for fun ways to show your team spirit, here are a few ideas:

• Create a team name
• Choose a team color or theme
• Make team t-shirts
• Bring posters or signs
• Decorate your team tent
• Bring pom-poms, banners, or fun accessories
• Create a social media post sharing who you walk for
• Invite friends, family, classmates, coworkers, and neighbors to join your team
• Set a team fundraising goal
• Celebrate your loved one with photos, stories, or special decorations

Do teams have to make their own t-shirts?
Team t-shirts are optional. Every registered participant receives the official Buddy Walk t-shirt if registered by Sept. 30th. Some teams choose to create their own shirts, signs, or decorations for extra team spirit.

What happens at the event?
The Buddy Walk is a family-friendly afternoon with music, activities, food, community connection, and a walk through the neighborhood at 3:00 PM.

Activities may include:

• Music
• Arts and crafts
• Food
• Family-friendly activities
• Community resource/vendor tables
• Team gathering areas

Can I bring a team tent?
Yes. Many families and teams bring a tent or canopy as a home base for the day. This gives your team a place to gather, store items, decorate, and meet up throughout the event.

Team setup details and timing will be shared closer to the event. Please follow all event-day instructions from DSAL volunteers.

Where do I pick up t-shirts?
Official Buddy Walk t-shirts will be available for in-person pickup on the day of the event at the registration tent.

If you are registered with a team, your team captain may receive the team’s t-shirts as a group. Please stay in communication with your team captain about pickup and distribution.

What should we bring?
Families and teams may want to bring:

• Team tent or canopy
• Folding chairs or picnic blanket
• Wagon for transporting supplies
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Snacks, if needed
• Team signs, decorations, or banners
• Stroller or wagon for children
• Any medical, sensory, or comfort items your family may need
• Phone or camera for photos
• Cash/card for any on-site purchases, if applicable

Please make sure all items are secured and cleaned up before leaving the park.

Where do we park?
Primary parking is typically available at Bishop England High School. Overflow parking is available in the surrounding Daniel Island neighborhood. Please follow posted signs and volunteer directions on event day.

NOTE:  The "main road" - Seven Farms Drive - is for the food trucks AND unloading and loading purposes only.  Please do not park there for the event.  

Can I drive onto the grass to unload?
No. Vehicles may not drive or park on the grass at Etiwan Park, including for unloading supplies or team tents. Please plan accordingly and bring a wagon or helper if needed.

How do I stay updated?
Watch our for emails from your team captain, check the Buddy Walk campaign page and follow DSAL on Facebook and Instagram for announcements about contests, challenges, fundraising incentives, and event details.