More than 500 people are set to take part in the Friendship Walk in Concord this Saturday to foster inclusivity and celebrate those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At the State House Plaza, the Friendship Walk, organized by Best Buddies, an organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation experienced by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will start at 10 a.m.

Families, including children and adults with disabilities, will walk side by side with their friends without disabilities.

“It’s a chance for our friends that have disabilities to feel included and to advocate for themselves and to be part of our community in a big way, and to show people how important inclusion is,” said Sarra Dennehy Lynch, director of Best Buddies New Hampshire.

At Concord’s 11th Friendship Walk, participants will hear from Jenifer Corriveau, owner of Integrity Nutrition in Concord, and her buddy, James Masterson. They were named the Best Buddies 2023 Champion of the Year team and have raised more than $50,000 for the organization.

The funds raised for the organization will go towards projects supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New Hampshire.

Lynch said as they grow, they hope to bring inclusive job programs and pre-employment transition programs to New Hampshire. She also hopes to see more inclusive living options for people with disabilities here.

The day promises several activities, starting with an opening ceremony featuring speeches that resonate with the mission of Best Buddies.

Participants will then walk through downtown, passing through engaging “fun zones” designed to support walkers. The walk is less than a mile long and flat, encouraging everyone to join, including those in wheelchairs. Participants can also look forward to a lineup of activities, including lunch, a dance party featuring a live DJ and even a glitter artist.

Lynch said an event like this provides an opportunity to break the stereotypes associated with people with disabilities.

“You see people with disabilities living their best life and having a great time and getting to know people and I think that’s how we change people’s opinions, not by sitting in a classroom and learning about what different disabilities are,” said Lynch.

To register for the event, visit https://www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/concord.