Best Buddies walk gathers South Floridians for disability awareness (includes video story)

This past Saturday, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk brought people from all over South Florida together at loanDepot Park for a day full of fun, purpose, and inclusion. The event went beyond walking — it was about building friendships and showing support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“I believe in everything it represents, and that’s celebrating diversity and giving people, whether they have an intellectual or physical disability, an opportunity,” said Craig Stevens, an anchor WSVN 7 News.

Best Buddies is all about creating real opportunities, from friendships to jobs to leadership roles, for people who are often left out. Events like this help spread the message that everyone deserves to belong.

The walk brought in significant support for local programs in schools, workplaces and communities, fueling efforts that help people feel seen and supported.

“I can feel the community coming even more and more each year,” said Paul Magnes, WSVN’s co-president. “This year we had a great turn out.”

Saturday’s event raised $337,187, surpassing its fundraising goal of $330,000. For more information on future events click here.

Daniela Morales is a junior at Florida International University majoring in Digital Broadcasting. After graduating, her goal is to work for a prestigious news channel and travel all around the world to cover news and stories.