About the Walk
The Buddy Walk of Bergen County seed was planted in 2004 when Billy Hourihan of Wyckoff, was born with Down syndrome. After attending a Buddy Walk, his family came together with the Wyckoff Family YMCA and held the first Buddy Walk of Bergen County in 2005. That walk was attended by 400 people and raised over $74,000. As a result, the Wyckoff Family YMCA developed Billy's Buddies, an outreach program for children with Down syndrome and their families.
In 2007, The Northern New Jersey Down Syndrome Alliance, a non-profit 501 (c) charity was developed by the Hourihan Family. The Alliance and The Wyckoff Family YMCA continue their partnership for raising awareness of Down syndrome.
Last year the Buddy Walk made donations to the National Down Syndrome Society, Research Down Syndrome Foundation, the Wyckoff Family YMCA's special needs programs, Shining Stars and Billy's Buddies, the New Jersey Special Olympics as well as the residents of Orchard Commons in Allendale. Since the inception of the Buddy Walk of Bergen County, 6 years ago, we have donated almost $500,000!
Last year over 1200 people attended the 2011 walk and over $85,000 was raised. This year our goal is $100,000 and 1500 walkers!!
Visit our Facebook page for updates and news.Chris Burke
Chris Burke joined us at the 2011 walk.
Chris is best known for the four years he spent playing Charles "Corky" Thatcher on the hit ABC-TV show "Life Goes On" and his reoccurring role as Taylor, the angel of faith on the hit CBS-TV show "Touched By An Angel".
When Chris was born with Down Syndrome in New York City in August of 1965, the doctors advised his parents to put him in an institution. The Burkes not only ignored that advice but treated Chris the same as his older brother and two sisters, a decision that has led to a remarkable life and talent!
Follow Chris at his website.
Celebr8 and Advoc8: Eight years of the Bergen Buddy Walk!
The Buddy Walk of
Bergen County Team
"The Buddy Walk of Bergen County serves the communities of Northern New Jersey, closest to New York City, and people come from all over the state and metro-New York to participate. We hope to see you this October at the Wyckoff Family YMCA!"