The annual Buddy Walk will take place Saturday, October 15 at 2:00pm at the Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion.

The Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville (DSAJ) will host the event.

There is a $25 registration fee, and online registration is now closed, but participants can register in person tomorrow morning.

As of publication time, the DSAJ has raised $350,839, nearing the goal of $400,000.

“And the money always goes to the kids,” parent Chris Crews said. “We raised over $100,000 last year.”

Crews’ son, Bryce, has Down syndrome and their family has participated in the Buddy Walk for 13 years now.

“The reason why we do it is just to get together, to help others that are struggling, and just to see all the kids get together on the beach,” Crews said.

Following the 2:00 pm check-in and registration, participants can play carnival games and sample from local food trucks. The opening ceremony begins at 3:00 pm and then the walk on the beach begins. The closing ceremony takes place with a live band.

“It’s a great time for all the families to join,” Crews said. “We’ve got so much in common.”