Lafayette’s Chloe’ Bellelo to Shine in Times Square for Down Syndrome Awareness
Lafayette's very own, Chloe’ Bellelo, is set to represent not just her city, but also the global Down syndrome community, on the grand stage of Times Square, New York.
Chloe’, the daughter of Bryan and Tyler Bellelo, has been selected to be featured in the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video presentation, set to air on Saturday, September 9. The video, which plays for an hour, features approximately 500 photographs of children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from across the nation, showcasing their intrinsic value and advocating for acceptance and inclusion.
From a staggering 2,400 entries submitted to the NDSS from around the world, Chloe's photo emerged as one of the chosen few. Her image will beam down from two massive JumboTron screens located above the Dos Caminos restaurant in Father Duffy Square. For those unable to experience the magic in person, the presentation can be caught live that day on the NDSS Facebook page from 9:30-10:30 am ET.
This prominent Times Square event precedes the renowned New York City Buddy Walk® at Central Park's Naumburg Bandshell. A significant tradition since 1995, this flagship Buddy Walk stands as a vital segment of the National Buddy Walk Program, celebrating Down syndrome awareness. These Buddy Walk events, mirroring the spirit of the main event, can be witnessed in numerous communities throughout the country and at select international venues.
Founded in 1979, the NDSS has been instrumental in driving significant policy changes, providing invaluable resources, and actively engaging with communities. Their efforts have been pivotal in reshaping public perceptions and supporting individuals with Down syndrome, along with their families and caregivers.
For further details on the NYC Buddy Walk on September 9 or the National Buddy Walk Program, interested individuals can head to www.ndss.org.
Additionally, for more information on the expansive National Buddy Walk® Program, an initiative that has been championing Down syndrome awareness since 1995, please visit https://ndss.org/national-buddy-walk-program.
We can't wait to root on Chloe’ as she represents Lafayette in the Big Apple.