BRATTLEBORO, Vt. – Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS) invites community members of all ages and abilities to come together for the 2026 Brattleboro Buddy Walk, a celebration of inclusion, connection, and the many contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Brattleboro Town Common, rain or shine. The day will feature a 1-mile walk through downtown Brattleboro, along with music, activities, games, prizes, lunch, vendors, and opportunities to connect with friends and neighbors from throughout the region.
The Brattleboro Buddy Walk has become a much-loved community tradition, bringing together individuals with different abilities, families, friends, service providers, businesses, and community members. HCRS is coordinating this year’s event in partnership with longtime Buddy Walk organizer Jim Nicholson.
“Buddy Walk is really about celebrating people and creating a community where everyone knows they belong,” said Anne Bilodeau, CEO of HCRS. “We’re excited to bring people together for a fun day while recognizing the talents, strengths, and contributions of people with different abilities throughout our communities.”
Proceeds from this year’s Brattleboro Buddy Walk will benefit Special Olympics programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Windham County, helping create additional opportunities for connection, participation, and achievement. The event is made possible through the generous support of local businesses and organizations, including Casella and M&T Bank, two of this year’s leading sponsors.
“Casella is proud to support the Buddy Walk and its important work to promote inclusion, awareness, and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome. For us, building sustainable communities goes beyond the services we provide every day. It also means investing in the people, organizations, and opportunities that help communities thrive. We’re proud to support the Buddy Walk and its commitment to creating a more inclusive community where everyone is valued, welcomed, and given the opportunity to succeed.”
“The Brattleboro Buddy Walk is a meaningful celebration of the talents, achievements, and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Kathleen Schirling, vice president and senior regional program officer at M&T Charitable Foundation. “We’re proud to support Health Care and Rehabilitation Services and its commitment to empowering individuals, supporting families, and strengthening communities throughout Windham County. Events like the Buddy Walk bring people together, foster connection, and raise awareness of the important role every person plays in our communities. Through the M&T Charitable Foundation, we’re honored to support efforts that help individuals and families thrive.”
Brattleboro Savings & Loan is also providing important support for this year’s celebration.
Advance registration is encouraged, although community members are welcome to join the celebration on the day of the event. Participants can also support the event through individual fundraising and donations.
For more information, to register, or to support the 2026 Brattleboro Buddy Walk, visit www.brattleborobuddywalk.org.