Times Square, New York City, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Caroline Campbell, a 32-year-old from Beaufort, South Carolina, was highlighted in New York City’s Times Square during the National Down Syndrome Society’s video presentation. Over 500 photographs showcased individuals with Down syndrome, emphasizing acceptance and inclusion. Caroline’s image was prominently displayed and celebrated during the event that also marked the kickoff for the annual NYC Buddy Walk. Her journey reflects the importance of determination and community support for individuals with disabilities.
Beaufort Woman Featured in Times Square for National Down Syndrome Society Video Presentation
Beaufort, South Carolina – Caroline Campbell, a 32-year-old woman with Down syndrome, made headlines over the weekend as she greeted visitors in New York City’s Times Square. Caroline was a part of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video presentation, which celebrated the lives of individuals with Down syndrome by showcasing their photographs on massive screens.
The one-hour video presentation included over 500 photographs from individuals with Down syndrome across all 50 states and 11 countries. Caroline’s photograph was highlighted on two Jumbotron screens, prominently displayed above the Dos Caminos restaurant in Father Duffy Square. In her chosen image, Caroline is seen under a palmetto tree in her backyard wearing a T-shirt that reads, “Best Extra Chromosome Ever.”
Caroline’s participation in this event comes after her selection from over 2,600 entries in a worldwide call for photographs issued by the NDSS. The video was also livestreamed on the NDSS Facebook page, allowing a wider audience to engage with the message of acceptance and inclusion for people with Down syndrome.
This presentation served as a kickoff for the annual NYC Buddy Walk, held at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park, which promotes awareness, acceptance, and raises funds for individuals with Down syndrome. Caroline attended the event in person alongside her parents, Jennifer and Kenny Campbell, celebrating not only her participation but also the larger movement for inclusivity and support for the Down syndrome community.
Caroline gained media attention previously in 2021 for her remarkable achievement of hand-copying the entire Bible. This ambitious project, which began in 2012, took nearly 10 years to complete and involved 10,493 pages of note paper and 43 plastic binders, showcasing her determination and dedication.
The NYC Buddy Walk has taken place annually since 1995, organized by the NDSS, with the goal of promoting acceptance and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. The event fosters community and raises essential funds to support ongoing efforts in education and advocacy for this population.
Event Overview
- Location: Times Square, New York City
- Participant: Caroline Campbell from Beaufort, South Carolina
- Featured Image Count: 500+ images from individuals with Down syndrome
- Livestream: NDSS Facebook page
- NYC Buddy Walk: Annual event promoting acceptance and raising funds
Background Context
The NYC Buddy Walk is an initiative started by the NDSS to raise awareness and funds for individuals with Down syndrome. Each year, thousands of participants gather to celebrate the abilities and contributions of those with Down syndrome, fostering a sense of community and support.
Caroline Campbell’s journey and accomplishments highlight the importance of determination in overcoming challenges. The recognition she received from the NDSS underscores the power of visibility and representation in advocating for individuals with disabilities.
FAQ Section
The presentation highlights the lives and stories of individuals with Down syndrome through a compilation of photographs to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion.
How many photographs were included in the video presentation?
The video included over 500 photographs from individuals with Down syndrome from across the United States and abroad.
What is the NYC Buddy Walk?
The NYC Buddy Walk is an annual event organized by the NDSS to promote acceptance and raise funds for individuals with Down syndrome.
When did the NYC Buddy Walk start?
The NYC Buddy Walk has been held annually since 1995.
Who is Caroline Campbell?
Caroline Campbell is a Beaufort resident with Down syndrome who gained recognition for her participation in the NDSS event and her achievement of hand-copying the entire Bible over nearly ten years.
Key Event Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Participant | Caroline Campbell |
| Location | Times Square, NYC |
| Photograph Inclusion | Over 500 images |
| Supported Countries | 11 Countries |
| Event Purpose | Promote awareness and inclusion for people with Down syndrome |
| Community Engagement | NYC Buddy Walk |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Wikipedia: Down syndrome
- Explore Beaufort SC: 4th of July Salute
- Google Search: NYC Buddy Walk
- WJCL: Beaufort Woman Handwrites Bible
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Down Syndrome
- Bluffton Today: Beyond Diagnosis
- Google News: Down Syndrome Awareness
- Live 5 News: Beaufort Co. Missing Man
- Google Scholar: Down Syndrome Community
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
