On Saturday morning, the Down Syndrome Coalition gathered more than 500 community members for the 16th annual El Paso Buddy Walk. The event took place at the El Paso Community College (EPCC) Valle Verde Campus, where participants and their designated “Buddies” walked a one‑mile route to raise awareness of Down syndrome and support local disability initiatives.

Purpose and Fundraising Goals

The walk served a dual purpose: increasing public understanding of Down syndrome and generating financial support for the Coalition’s ongoing projects. Proceeds also contribute to the EPCC Buddy Walk Scholarship, a program that assists students with disabilities in pursuing higher education.

Event Details

Attendees arrived at the Valle Verde Campus at 9:00 a.m., and the walk began promptly at 10:00 a.m. Organizers reported that the event featured a diverse group of participants, including families, local businesses, and volunteers who served as “Buddies” to walk alongside individuals with Down syndrome.

Community Impact

Community leaders praised the event as a testament to El Paso’s commitment to inclusion and family values. By bringing together residents from across the city, the Buddy Walk reinforces the importance of supporting families and individuals with special needs, aligning with the region’s strong faith‑based and family‑centered traditions.

Looking Ahead

The Down Syndrome Coalition plans to continue the Buddy Walk tradition in future years, expanding outreach and scholarship opportunities. Organizers hope that the growing participation will further strengthen community bonds and provide more resources for students with disabilities seeking higher education.

For more information about the Down Syndrome Coalition, the Buddy Walk, or the EPCC scholarship program, visit the coalition’s website or contact EPCC’s Office of Student Services.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.