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Best Buddies Friendship Walk returns for second year on Sunday in Basalt

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A few hundred people take part in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk on June 2, 2024, in downtown Basalt.
Austin Colbert/The Aspen Times

For the second straight year, the Roaring Fork Valley’s chapter of Best Buddies International will host its Friendship Walk on Sunday at Basalt River Park.

Scheduled to go from noon to 3 p.m., the walk is part of a national movement and is “a powerful platform that supports inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) such as Down syndrome and autism.”

“Our Friendship Walk is one of Best Buddies’ most beloved traditions — it’s where our mission truly comes alive,” said Rachael Fischer, state director of Best Buddies, in a news release. “Thanks to our passionate participants, generous volunteers, and incredible partners, we’re building a more inclusive community — one step at a time.”



Along with the walk itself, there will be dancing, face painting, crafts, a petting zoo, and music from DJ Naka G. Food will be provided by chef Matthew Zubrod and the team at Viceroy Snowmass.

Also taking part will be the Gentlemen of Aspen Rugby Club, which will serve as the walk’s official sports ambassadors.




“Our club values community, and we couldn’t be prouder to stand alongside Best Buddies,” said Gents’ captain Risteard Mulcahy in a news release. “Rugby is all about camaraderie, teamwork, and family — it’s inspiring to see those same values shine through this event.”

Since 2009, more than 350,000 participants in over 80 cities have raised upward of $30 million through the Best Buddies Friendship Walks. Proceeds from the walk support local programs that provide one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with IDD.

To donate or register ahead of time, visit bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/roaringfork. The walk is scheduled to begin at 1:15 p.m., with the opening ceremony starting at 1 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to park at the Basalt Elementary or Basalt Middle School parking lots and then walk or take the WE-cycle to the park.

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