June 02, 2025
Breese, IL- Community Link is officially announcing that its 19th Annual Buddy Walk will be held on Saturday, September 13th at Northside Park in Breese, IL.
This will be the grooviest Buddy Walk yet, with the retro 60’s theme of Peace.Love.Walk. The purpose of the event is to celebrate and support the participants of Community Link. It is a day to showcase the talents of individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.
The 1-mile fun walk will fill the streets of Breese with family members, friends, and supporters who share the organization’s vision that every person is valued for their presence and contributions. This year the goals of the fundraiser are to increase participation, and to raise $150,000 to provide more resources and more choices for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The Buddy Walk was established by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995 to raise awareness and support programs for those with Down syndrome. Community Link is proud to have one of the larger walks in the country to support local programs while contributing 2.5% of proceeds to NDSS for national initiatives.
Community Link is grateful for the community support that is shown every year for the Buddy Walk. In 2024, the organization had more than 1400 registered walkers celebrate All Stars with developmental disabilities. With the collaboration of team captains, volunteers, sponsors, staff, clients, and attendees, the 2024 event raised over $134,000.
The highlight of the event on September 13 is the walk at 11am. The participants, staff, and friends of Community Link are planning some fun activities at the park, before and after the walk, that attendees won’t want to miss. It is also a great day to just relax and enjoy time together.
Excitement is building as plans and timeline for the event are being finalized. Community Link is looking to the community and volunteers to be actively involved in the planning, and is requesting team captains and businesses to assist in the fundraising efforts.
Registration is now open at commlink.org/buddywalk. Early Bird registration is available for $20 per person through July 3, then registration will be $25. T-shirts are included with all registrations. Visit the website for additional information.
This year, the t-shirt has been designed with artwork by Community Link participant, Jim. He loves drawing and is happy to share his talents to create the retro-inspired design. Everyone can vote to choose the color of the shirt at commlink.org/buddywalk. The winning color will be announced on June 25.
For individuals interested in becoming a team captain, volunteering, getting a business or group involved, or would just like to learn more about the walk, please contact Michelle Delfel at michelled@commlink.org or call at 618-526-3989.
Community Link is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through a person-centered approach that promotes self-directed living choices and community integration opportunities. The mission of Community Link is to provide opportunities for choice, growth, and independence for adults with developmental disabilities. For more information visit commlink.org.