The Jamaica Down Syndrome Foundation (JDSF) is excited to announce the inaugural 'Bredrin Walk,' a 2km event designed to raise awareness, generate funds, and provide crucial resources for individuals living with Down Syndrome. Scheduled for October 13, 2024, at Hope Gardens in Kingston, the walk will celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month, observed globally in October. This milestone event signifies a significant step in Jamaica’s efforts to enhance understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with Down Syndrome while fostering unity across the community.

 Inspired by the 'Buddy Walk,' an event established by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995, the 'Bredrin Walk' has been rebranded to reflect the close bonds and mutual respect in the Jamaican community. The event will bring together families, friends, advocates, and supporters from across the island to celebrate the lives and achievements of individuals with Down Syndrome. Participants will walk side by side to promote the values of inclusion and solidarity, which have been central to the JDSF since its founding in 2007.

 Since its establishment, the JDSF has worked diligently to support families raising children with Down Syndrome, providing emotional and practical assistance, educational resources, and advocacy. The organization maintains a database of families with Down Syndrome children and offers guidance on utilizing available resources. Additionally, the JDSF has been instrumental in global advocacy efforts, contributing to the United Nations' recognition of March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day in 2011.

 Dr. Charmaine Scott, Founder and Chairperson of the JDSF, emphasized the importance of the Bredrin Walk, saying, "Down Syndrome is not a barrier to success, happiness, or love. It is a part of the beautiful diversity that makes our world richer and more vibrant. The Bredrin Walk will be more than just a fundraiser or an awareness campaign; it will be a celebration of unity, acceptance, and the relentless spirit of our community."

 Funds raised through the Bredrin Walk will directly support programs and services for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families, including educational resources, therapy sessions, and advocacy initiatives. The JDSF also acknowledged the crucial support from sponsors, including Hope Gardens, Jamaica Moves (MOHW), Kemtek Development, Jamaica Producers Group, CB Facey Foundation, Tim's Big Heart Foundation, CIBC, Courts Jamaica Ltd., and ND Communications, whose contributions have made the event possible.

 The JDSF invites all Jamaicans to participate in the Bredrin Walk and contribute to this movement of love, awareness, and support for individuals with Down Syndrome. With an entry fee of just $1,500, participants can register at Bredrin Walk Registration and be eligible to compete for a special armband raffle prize.

 Together, let us take steps towards making a meaningful difference and showing our collective love and respect for individuals with Down Syndrome, because when we walk together, we walk stronger.