UTICA — Upstate Cerebral Palsy will host its annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Buddy Walk presented by Adirondack Bank on Sunday, Sept. 18, at the Parkway Recreation Center, 220 Memorial Parkway.

The event is meant to raise awareness and funds for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome and their families.

Registration starts at 10 a.m., with the Opening Ceremony to follow at 10:45 a.m. The walk begins at 11 a.m.

The day will include music, food for purchase from Rio Grande and Big Papi’s Coquito Iceys, a community art squeegee canvas that will be raffled off at the end of the event, face painting, cornhole and other activities for children with the help of Utica University men’s ice hockey players.

Buddy Walk merchandise will be available for purchase including official NDSS Buddy Walk coffee roasted by Generous Roasting of Rome. The event is for people of all ages. Donations and pledges are welcome, but are not required to walk and several community partners will be onsite with information.

For more information on the day of the event, contact 315-527-3400.

Upstate Cerebral Palsy is a multi-faceted health and human services organization that provides innovative programs and services that support people with differing abilities and their families that create opportunities to fulfill life choices.