Attorney Craig Markham was among the several hundred participants of the Erie 2012 Buddy Walk. The Buddy Walk program was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October. The name Buddy Walk promotes inclusion between friends of every ability. The Buddy Walk has been ranked in the top 30 fundraising events nationwide for money raised, number of participants and best series event since 2008 according to Run Walk Ride Fundraising Council Survey results. The Buddy Walk has grown to be the world's largest and most recognizable Down syndrome awareness program, with over 250 Walks taking place in 50 states and select international countries. Each year 285,000 walkers collectively raise approximately $11.5 million which is used to support local programs and services as well as national advocacy initiatives. For more info, go to http://www.ndss.org