POTSDAM -- Special musical guest TV star Chris Burke and his bandmates Joe and John DeMasi are coming for this year’s Buddy Walk in support of people with Down syndrome and their families.

The walk is on Saturday, Oct. 2 at Potsdam Central School along Stevie’s Trail, with registration beginning at 1 p.m. and the walk at 2. The event is free, but donations are welcome.

Attendees will also be able to help raise funds by participating in silent auctions at the Buddy Walk. There will be special activities and games for children. Funds raised support people with Down syndrome and their families.

Chris Burke, a performer with Down syndrome, is best known for the years he spent playing Charles “Corky” Thatcher on the hit TV show “Life Goes On” and his recurring role as Taylor in the series “Touched by an Angel.”

He and his band have been delighting audiences all over North America for over a decade with their inspiring and uplifting music. They bring a message of love, inclusion and celebration.

In the days prior to the Buddy Walk, they will be giving performances in public schools throughout St. Lawrence County.

The Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk that celebrates the many abilities and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome. It was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Last year alone, 250,000 people participated in a Buddy Walk and raised more than $9.5 million to benefit local programs and services as well as the national advocacy initiatives that benefit all individuals with Down syndrome.

The event is organized by the Down Syndrome Association of St. Lawrence County, and St. Lawrence NYSARC is lead sponsor.

The Down Syndrome Association of St. Lawrence County is a non-profit group made up of family and friends of individuals with Down Syndrome. In the past year the group has purchased books for area libraries, provided educational materials for new families, and organized special recreational events for children and adults. The group meets monthly. The next meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at the Canton Free Library. Everyone is welcome. For more information, email dsaofslc@gmail.com or follow the group on Facebook.