When walking is more than just exercise.
Two months after Jamie Dunn and his partner began their relationship, his partner became an aunt to Steven who was diagnosed with Down syndrome. When Steven’s mom became involved with the New Hampshire Down Syndrome Association, Jamie and his partner knew they wanted to join in.
“They’re a great organization that does a tremendous job of creating an educational and supportive community, meeting everyone’s unique challenges with kindness and respect,” Dunn said.
Jamie, an Integration Engineer for Huntzinger, volunteers at the NHDSA’s annual Buddy Walk. The non-profit works to “to help all people with Down syndrome live to their fullest potential and enhance their quality of life while bringing about awareness of Down syndrome to our friends and neighbors.”
The Buddy Walk fundraiser connects local businesses with their community through donations. Not only do people come together to raise awareness, but they come out to socialize and enjoy each other’s company. At the Buddy Walks, Dunn has helped with photography, directed foot traffic, and cleaned up post-walk but his most important role? “Having fun with the kids!”
Although the 2020 Buddy Walk was cancelled, the NHDSA is hoping to come back strong this year.
“At first it was a good excuse to spend more time with Steven, but we found ourselves really enjoying being part of the community, and the Buddy Walk is a great opportunity to give back where we can,” said Dunn.
With over five years of volunteering, Jamie loves how the NHDSA has impacted families, including his own, in the New Hampshire community.
“Steven is an absolutely fantastic kid and seeing all the help the NHDSA has provided on an individual level really reflects their commitment to helping families learn to live and thrive with the diagnosis. Their dedication and message to help these amazing people get the most in life is inspiring,” says Dunn.
For more information, visit www.newhampshiredsa.org
To learn more about Huntzinger Helps, click here.