Matt took the stage as DJ, and Hayley cheered with her pom poms as they invited everyone to join the Silicon Valley Down Syndrome Network (SVDSN) 21st Annual Buddy Walk. This year’s event was extra special—how perfect that it marked the 21st Buddy Walk, just like the extra 21st chromosome that makes our loved ones with Down syndrome so extraordinary.

The celebration filled San Jose with smiles, music, and community spirit. Hope participants Matt and Hayley were among the day’s highlights. Matt kept the crowd dancing behind the DJ booth, while Hayley brought her infectious energy to the stage with the Brown Bag Cheer Team.

The event holds deep meaning for Matt’s family. His mom, Janet, launched the very first Buddy Walk, and Matt has been its DJ since 2018—spinning tunes that keep everyone moving. Matt attended Hope Services in San Jose and worked at Home Depot in the plant section through our Employment, Media, and Community Connections program. “Every day he’s happy to be at Hope,” Janet shared. “If he knows we’re going to Hope, he’s ready within minutes.”

Hayley, who attended the College of Adaptive Arts, has also flourished through her connection with Hope. “We love Hope,” said her mom, Laura. “It’s been good for Hayley to build a community and a routine she can count on.”

The Buddy Walk felt like a family reunion—filled with joy, connection, and a shared commitment to inclusion. A heartfelt thank-you to the SVDSN and everyone who helped make this milestone celebration so memorable.