Mission, KS – A local family’s national moment of pride is fueling excitement for the upcoming Step Up for Down Syndrome walk in Mission. Wil Sykes, a freshman at Blue Valley Northwest High School, saw his photo displayed on two Times Square jumbotrons on Sept. 12 as part of the National Down Syndrome Society’s Annual Buddy Walk. Wil’s image was selected from nearly 3,000 worldwide submissions, marking the second time his photo has been honored.
From Kansas to Times Square
Wil’s mother, Kim Sykes, described the Times Square appearance as “an honor” and a celebration of education, advocacy, and inclusion for people with Down syndrome. “It’s a big celebration, just for education, advocacy and inclusion, and awareness about Down syndrome,” Kim said. The family returned to Kansas shortly after the trip, eager to share the experience with their community.
Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk – Oct. 3
On Saturday, Oct. 3, Mission‑based Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI) will host its 31st Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome walk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kauffman Stadium. DSI President and CEO Jennifer Dreiling expects roughly 3,000 participants, including families, friends, and supporters from across the region.
The event will feature live music, dancing, bounce houses, games, and food, creating a family‑friendly atmosphere. In addition to the ceremonial walk, attendees can explore DSI’s lifespan services, which provide employment assistance, adult continuing education, fitness and nutrition programs, therapies, and mental‑health support for individuals with Down syndrome.
Community Impact
Dreiling emphasized that the walk is “ultimately a day for families to connect, celebrate, awareness and advocacy for people with Down syndrome, that they are meaningful, purposeful, wonderful people that have so much value here.” The fundraiser will direct proceeds to DSI’s programs, reinforcing the organization’s mission to serve individuals with Down syndrome at every stage of life—from expecting parents to aging adults.
While the walk is independent of the National Down Syndrome Society’s Buddy Walk, both events share the goal of fostering inclusion and celebrating the abilities and dreams of people with Down syndrome. The Sykes family participated in the Buddy Walk in Central Park after the Times Square presentation, further highlighting the collaborative spirit of local and national advocacy.
How to Get Involved
Registration for the Oct. 3 walk remains open online until 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, with same‑day registration also available (though commemorative shirts are not guaranteed). Those unable to attend can still support DSI through donations or volunteer opportunities listed on the nonprofit’s website.
For families seeking ongoing services or community connections, DSI offers a range of resources, including employment programs, continuing education, and mental‑health support. More information is available on the organization’s website.
Local Pride
Wil’s Times Square moment has resonated throughout Johnson County, reminding residents of the power of local families to inspire national recognition. The upcoming Step Up walk provides an opportunity for the community to rally around a shared cause, celebrate inclusion, and demonstrate the strength of Mission’s commitment to families and individuals with Down syndrome.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
