Event Details

Where to Go

  • Myrick Park - Main Shelter - La Crosse, WI, 54601

  • Upon arrival, EACH pre-registered Participant must get their hand-stamped at registration. You will show this stamp to the lunch team

  • For T-shirts, only ONE member of your team needs to collect these at registration

What to Bring

  • Rain or shine, we're committed to enjoying the event outdoors, so come prepared for any weather conditions
  • Be sure to have cash on hand for our amazing raffles
  • Please note that rollerblades, skates, pets, glitter, or confetti are not allowed, please them at home

Family Fall Festival

Celebrate with us as Brutus the TheraPiggy returns for another heartwarming appearance, accompanied by local celebrities and esteemed royalty! Other activities this year will include:

  • Horse-drawn carriage rides 
  • 15' Dual Inflatable slide
  • Balloon artist 
  • Music and so much more!

Food and Beverage

  • Your pre-registration fee covers lunch, while additional meals will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited availability
  • Get ready for a sugary delight! We'll have some tempting sweet treats available for purchase

2024 T-Shirts

  • Your pre-registration fee covers your 2024 T-shirt
  • T-shirts are available for pick up only at the Walk on October 12, 2024
  • Virtual participants who register before September 15, 2024, will receive their 2024 T-shirt shipped directly to the address they provide during registration.
  • Click here to register
  • The deadline to submit is September 15, 2024

21 Showcase

  • Get ready to shine! Individuals of all ages with Down syndrome and other disabilities will have their moment to dazzle on the red carpet in front of their adoring family and friends. And for our little stars who need a hand, parents, caregivers, or siblings can join in on the sparkle and walk alongside them!
  • Click here to sign up
  • The deadline to submit is September 27, 2024

Forming a Team

  • Your team can be as large or as small as you want
  • The difference you make changes the lives of more than 5,500 families across the state
  • Whether you raise $10 or $10,000, YOU are making a difference for people with Down syndrome and their families in Wisconsin
  • Remember, fundraising does not have to be scary! Most people are happy to give to a cause that is important to their friends and family
  • Click here to start a TEAM
  • The deadline is September 15, 2024

Recruiting Team Members

  • Make a list of people you know best - family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, etc.
  • Ask the people on your list to join your team via email, social media, or phone
  • Explain why it's important to you and your family, and encourage your team to fundraise
  • Giving them a sample fundraising letter (see below for an idea!) and a picture of your loved one to send to their networks can be incredibly helpful
  • In addition, remind them that business sponsorships can count towards your team's total!! 

Ultimately, this process is not just about fundraising: it's about spreading awareness, inclusion, and acceptance of people with Down syndrome.

Fundraising Template

Fundraising might seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! It can be as easy as sending an email or making a social media post. Use this template to reach out to your friends and family and ask for donations.


“Dear Friends,

This year, my family has formed TEAM (insert team name) for the 2024 Greater La Crosse Area Annual Walk which will be held on Saturday, October 12th at Myrick Park. The goal of the Walk is not only to raise funds but also to spread understanding, inclusion, and acceptance of Down syndrome throughout Wisconsin. By supporting this cause, you're directly contributing to the life-changing programs and services provided by DSAW Greater La Crosse Area. This cause is deeply personal to us because (insert personal story or connection to our cause here).

Would you consider joining TEAM (insert team name) and/or making a donation to support our team and [insert name of friend or loved one with Down syndrome)? Your donation will have a large impact on thousands of lives in Wisconsin. Please forward this email to your friends and family, too! In addition, if your business would be interested in sponsoring the walk, the funds will count toward our team's total! Visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/lacrossewalk2024/sponsors/ to download sponsorship benefits.

Use this link to join TEAM (insert team name) and make a donation: (insert personal link)

Thank you for supporting Down syndrome awareness! (insert TEAM CAPTAIN's NAME)
 

Company Sponsorships

Sponsoring DAW Greater La Crosse Area and their mission will provide your company with:

  1. Brand Visibility: Sponsoring our event means your company logo will be prominently featured on various promotional materials, increasing brand exposure and recognition among event attendees and beyond.

  2. Positive Image: Supporting a community event showcases your company's commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, which can enhance your brand's image and reputation.

  3. Networking Opportunities: As a sponsor, you'll have the chance to connect with other businesses, organizations, and individuals attending the event, opening doors to potential collaborations and partnerships.

  4. Marketing Reach: Your sponsorship will be acknowledged through various marketing channels such as social media, email newsletters, and press releases, extending your brand's reach to a broader audience.

  5. Employee Morale: Being associated with a meaningful cause can boost employee morale and pride in the company, fostering a positive work culture.

We offer multiple sponsorship levels for our event, starting with Bronze sponsorship for just a donation of $250.00. Regardless of the level, all sponsors will have their company logo featured on our 2024 T-shirt. Click here to explore the benefits and fill out the agreement form. The deadline to take advantage of all benefits is August 23, 2024.

IMPORTANT DEADLINES:

Company Sponsorships - August 23, 2024
Pre-registration (Teams and Individuals) - September 15, 2024
21 Showcase - September 27, 2024