Fundraising Events

The Down Syndrome Guild of Southeast Michigan (DSG) relies solely on the contributions of individuals, foundations, corporations and fund raising events to support the work of our organization.  These funds enable us to provide all of our programs and services at little or no cost.  We are very grateful to our community for their continued support of our organization. This continual support indicates an endorsement of the valuable services that we are uniquely qualified to provide to our families.

Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk

This year is the 7th annual Step Up for Down Syndrome (formerly Buddy Walk). The Walk has evolved over the years from a walk in the park with only 250 people attending to a major event, spreading awareness for close to 2,000 people.

The Walk is the single largest fundraiser for the DSG and by far the largest vehicle for spreading awareness and bringing community together. We were proud to have junior high and high school students participating as volunteers in our event.

In 2010 the DSG was proud to have 1,700 participants and raised over $130,000. Over 80% of DSG programs are funded through the proceeds from the Walk.

T o find out how you can be involved or to start a team, please contact Jorja Rapelje-Frank at StepUP@dsgsemi.org.

Buddy Walk — Now "Step Up for Down Syndrome". See Above.

The Buddy Walk was developed in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to promote the awareness and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.  It has evolved into the single largest awareness vehicle for Down syndrome in the world.  At least 250,000 people are expected to participate in more than 275 walks throughout the country this year.

It is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate.  Last year the DSG was proud to have 1,500 participants and raised nearly $90,000.

95% of DSG programs are funded through the proceeds from the Buddy Walk.

Dress Down for Down Syndrome

The Down Syndrome Guild of Southeast Michigan is encouraging all businesses and organizations to help promote the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome by "Dressing Down" at work. Anytime is a great time for a "Dress Down For Down Syndrome" fundraiser, which can be held anytime throughout the year. Participating in this campaign is a great way for local companies to encourage team building within their organization, energize their workforce, and boost morale, while helping families in their community. For a small contribution to the DGS, individuals are permitted to wear casual clothing to work. For more information on how to organize a "Dress Down for Down Syndrome" Day at your place of business, please contact us at info@dsgsemi.org

> Download the Dress Down for Down Syndrome 2010 Poster [PDF 404KB]
> Download the Dress Down for Down Syndrome 2010 Letter [PDF 300KB]
> Download the Dress Down for Down Syndrome 2010 Pledge Sheet [PDF 200KB]
> Download the Dress Down for Down Syndrome 2010 Registration Form [PDF 196KB]