Step up for Down Syndrome 2026

Join us for the largest gathering of our Down syndrome community as we advocate and celebrate for individuals with Down syndrome, and this year's theme: My Life. My Choices.

• On the Eastern Shore: October 17th at 10am at Rotary Pavilion, City park in Salisbury
• In Baltimore: October 24th at West Covington Park at 10am in Baltimore's beautiful South Baltimore neighborhood

Why Walk?

The Step Up for Down Syndrome to benefit DSAmd highlights that individuals with Down syndrome are vital and valued members of our larger communities. These exciting community celebrations are open to everyone, whether you're part of the Down syndrome community or a passionate ally ready to step up and make a difference. 100% of proceeds support the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland. 

Why this walk and the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland (DSAmd)? 

DSAmd is an official, registered nonprofit organization. We supported nearly as many program registrations in the first half of 2025 as in the entire year before that (2024.) Whew! We cannot keep growing and serving people with Down Syndrome and their families without the help of sponsors, donors, and funders just like you. Simply put: We need you, and you can make a direct, positive impact on the Down syndrome community by building a fundraising team and making a donation right now.

See all of our community impact reports from the last few years here. 

If you have more questions, we'd love to answer them - we love to discuss our work! Contact us: info@DSAmd.org / 410-321-5434 (call or text)

1. Walkers and Donors: Click the "Register" or "Donate" buttons. Also, visit the Getting Started tab at the top of this page for details and FAQs!
2. Follow along on social media (@DSAMaryland) using: #StepUpBaltimore #StepUpEasternShore 
3. Sponsors and potential sponsors should visit the Sponsors tab at the top of this page for details - we'd be honored to have you
4. Vendor and Resource Tables are available! Select "Register" to sign up for a table at the walk-a-thon. We'll be in touch with details.
5. Memorial Remembrances: If you or someone you know has lost a loved one with Down syndrome, we’d be honored to help remember them. This year’s walk-a-thon will include a special Remembrance section. Please use the form linked below and in the top navigation to share their information so we can celebrate their life.
6. Nominate an amazing advocate who believes that individuals with Down syndrome have CHOICE! Do you have a wonderful teacher, paraeducator, inclusive sports coach, club leader, or business owner who is a champion for the Down syndrome community? Let's Step Up for Down Syndrome and celebrate! Use the form linked below and in the top navigation to nominate. We’ll recognize them at the walk-a-thon events.
7. Other Ways to Support. Looking for an easy way to raise awareness and support the biggest #DSAmd advocacy events of the year? Share our Amazon wishlist & support the purchase of fun swag items to make sure everyone has an EXTRA fanastic time when they Step Up for Down Syndrome