The annual Best Buddies Capital Region Friendship Walk was held on Saturday, October 21st on the National Mall. Members of Best Buddies Oakton participated in the walk and some have said that it was the best walk yet.

Not only was team Oakton the 3rd fundraiser overall for donations, but they were the number one high school in the Capital Region and they surpassed their goal of $15,000. “We reached our goal of $15,000 while we were on the metro riding in to D.C. at seven o’clock on Saturday morning. I refreshed the page and announced it to the whole metro car, and everyone cheered. It was one of the happiest moments of the day,” said Kinda Callas, Chapter Vice President. Now, as a reward for their excellence in raising money for the Friendship Walk, Best Buddies Oakton gets to choose either a “pizza party” with Tommy McFly (94.7 Fresh FM radio host) or a free bus and free tickets for Best Buddies Prom in the spring.

Waking up at six in the morning and going all the way to D.C. to walk three miles definitely sounds exhausting, however, it is all worth it to walk for friendship and inclusion of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants were able to see the sunrise as they arrived in D.C., which was a beautiful start to the day, before they began the walk. Throughout the course, walkers were able to pass the Capitol, the Washington Monument, and Smithsonian museums. Although the streets were extremely crowded with people, walkers were still able to pose for some memorable pictures in front of the monuments and beautiful D.C. architecture.

After finishing the walk, participants enjoyed Ledo’s Pizza, face painting, a photo booth, a comfortable beanbag area to relax and recharge, and a fun dance party with a DJ. This was when McFly announced Best Buddies Oakton as the third fundraiser and number one high school overall, and everyone at the event cheered for Oakton. “The Friendship Walk was so inspiring and empowering.  I have learned to become an advocate for those who are far too often left on the sidelines by teaching others to appreciate each individual’s aptitudes and talents, regardless of their abilities. I walked for my buddy, Hannah, who is an indispensable source of constant joy, love and support in my life,” said Caylan Roy, Chapter President.

Watch the video below to see how amazing Best Buddies Oakton truly is.