After a hiatus due to the challenges of COVID-19, Kern Down Syndrome Network (KDSN) is thrilled to announce the return of our annual Walk for a Million Dreams! This event is not just a walk; it’s a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and the power of community. As we prepare to host this empowering event, we invite you to participate.

Join us for a day filled with inspiration, empowerment, and celebration.  Together, we can walk towards a future where every individual with Down syndrome is valued, included, and given the opportunity to achieve their dreams.

By participating in our walk, you're helping to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome in our community. Every step you take and every dollar you raise goes towards supporting vital programs and services for individuals with Down syndrome and their families in Kern County.

What to Expect:
**Scenic Route:** Enjoy a picturesque walk through Stramler Park surrounded by friends, family, and fellow supporters.
**Entertainment:** Live music, fun activities, and entertainment for all ages throughout the event.
**Resource Fair:** Connect with local organizations and resources dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
**Food and Refreshments:** Fuel up with delicious snacks and  beverages available for purchase.
**Community Spirit:** Experience the warmth and camaraderie of our vibrant community as we come together to make a difference.

In addition to the walk itself, we will be hosting several contests celebrating the spirit of the Walk for a Million Dreams teams, including awards for:
Biggest Team: Celebrating the team with the most participants.
Top Fundraising Team: Recognizing the team that raises the most funds.
Best Team T-shirt Design: Showcasing innovative design prowess.
Best Team Space Design: Highlighting imaginative team setups, creativity and spirit.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVEMENT

* Become a Sponsor of the 2024 2nd Annual Walk for a Million Dreams! Let our local families know you support them and their children. Your Sponsorship offers you numerous marketing opportunities. (See Sponsor tab above for more information).

* If you can not attend this event but would like to make a donation to the Kern Down Syndrome Network, please select the DONATE button. You can also donate to an individual or team by visiting their fundraising page under the TEAMS/PEOPLE tab.

* Create a Team and get your family and friends involved in supporting a great cause by asking them to join the team.  To get started, just select the "REGISTER" button to start a team, join a team or register with no team.  Additional family/team members can be added by selecting the green "Add Another Registrant" button during Step 3.  After you complete registration you can start your team or personal fundraising page by selecting the "Fundraising Page Set Up" button at the top of the online receipt.

Your participation, irrespective of the level of support, is instrumental in enabling KDSN to continue its mission of serving families in and around greater Kern County. Your participation and generosity enable KDSN to coordinate crucial local efforts for education, medical outreach, public awareness, and year-round programs and services benefiting our community.

Team Captains please note:  Make sure to provide your user name and password when prompted during registration to have access to your team and donor information from last year. Click here for instructions.

Registration Fees:

Walk Registration without t-shirt - FREE, does not include event t-shirt 

Adult Registration - $30 (ages 13 & up, includes t-shirt) 

Child Registration - $20 (ages 12 & under, includes t-shirt) 

*Due to unforeseen circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic, our KDSN Walk for a Million Dreams scheduled for March 2020 was unfortunately canceled. We want to express our gratitude to all who generously contributed to this event. Despite the cancellation, it’s important to note that the funds raised were diligently allocated towards supporting our mission and programs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Please understand that, given the nature of our financial commitments and obligations, the funds raised cannot be rolled over to this year’s walk. Even though we were not operational during this period, we still incurred necessary operating costs with our vendors. Your contributions have allowed us to honor these obligations and continue our vital work. We deeply appreciate your understanding and ongoing support.*