New York City, NY, Sept. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) will hold its 31st NYC Buddy Walk® on Saturday, September 12. The day will start in Times Square with the annual NDSS Times Square Video Presentation featuring images of more than 500 individuals with Down syndrome from across the world. The presentation will be displayed on two video boards in Duffy Square (7th Avenue & West 47th St.) courtesy of Clear Channel Outdoor.  

Following the NDSS Times Square Video Presentation, participants will head to historic Central Park where the annual Buddy Walk® and other festivities will take place at the Naumburg Bandshell (5th Ave and W 72nd St.) The event will be emceed by Chris Wragge from CBS New York and will feature special guest presentations from “Reminders of Him” actor Monika Myers.   

“Seeing your face in Times Square is an unforgettable experience,” said NDSS CEO Kandi Pickard. “For individuals with Down syndrome and their families, it’s a moment of joy, pride and belonging. We are proud to bring our community together for a weekend that celebrates individuals with Down syndrome and shares that joy with the world.” 

The event will also feature Clifford’s Reading Corner, sponsored by Scholastic, which will feature readings from three authors who have written books about Down syndrome. Among them is actress Sofia Sanchez, who will read her inspiring book You Are Brave, published by Scholastic. 

The National Buddy Walk® Program includes over 150 events in the U.S. and several international events that raise hundreds of thousands globally. Funds directly benefit local Down syndrome communities and help increase social opportunities, drive policy change, and build relationships. The NYC Buddy Walk® is the flagship walk held annually and hosted specifically by the National Down Syndrome Society.  

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About NDSS:  

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. NDSS’ vision is to ensure all individuals with Down syndrome are assured their human rights and valued by a more inclusive society. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events, and programs on topics that are critical to our community such as federal and state advocacy and public policy, health and wellness, education, and employment. NDSS creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan and hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including the National Buddy Walk® Program, the Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, the annual NDSS Gala & Auction, and various other events. Visit www.ndss.org for more information about NDSS.  

About the National Buddy Walk® Program :

Since 1995, the National Buddy Walk® Program has been the premier Down syndrome awareness, advocacy and peer-to-peer fundraising program in the world. It was created by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to raise funds for local and national incentives to support the Down syndrome community. Today, more than 150 Buddy Walk® events take place in cities across the country and in select international locations. To learn more and find a Buddy Walk® near you, visit www.buddywalk.org.  

Michelle Sagan
National Down Syndrome Society
301 728 0447
msagan@ndss.org