The Best Buddies South Dakota Friendship Walk, presented by Best Buddies International, turned Harrisburg Stadium into a full day of energy, connection, and celebration as students, families, and community members came together for one shared mission; friendship and inclusion for all.

From the start, the excitement was impossible to miss. With over 300 registrations, the stadium was filled with teams ready to show up, show out, and support the cause. That energy carried through the entire day and helped push the event past an incredible milestone, we surpassed $10,000 raised, thanks to the effort and heart of every participant, donor, and supporter involved.

A big part of what made the day feel so special was the support from Harrisburg High School, who not only welcomed us into their stadium but helped set the tone for the entire experience. Their students showed up in a big way too, with the Harrisburg High School Art Club volunteering for face painting that added color, personality, and a lot of smiles throughout the event.

The spirit of inclusion carried across every corner of the stadium. Special Olympics South Dakota joined us as a vendor, helping strengthen the shared message of access and opportunity. Families also played a meaningful role throughout the day, stepping in as volunteers and helping capture moments that reflected just how much this event means to the community.

Schools across the region brought incredible energy and leadership. Lincoln High School, Dakota Valley High School, Rock Creek Grant Elementary, and Washington High School all showed up strong not just in fundraising, but in spirit. One of the standout moments of the day came from our student leader, Vice President at Lincoln High School, who shared a speech about how Best Buddies has impacted her school and personal experience. It was one of those moments that quietly grounded the whole event in what it’s really about.

On the fundraising side, Dakota Valley High School led the way as one of the Top 5 fundraising schools, with advisor Madison Kenny also being recognized as Top Fundraiser after raising an impressive $590. Their efforts, along with the other top teams, helped drive the event’s overall success in a big way.

We also celebrated Washington High School, whose advisors were named Advisors of the Year for their dedication, consistency, and leadership throughout the program and event.

Throughout the day, Miss South Dakota volunteers helped present awards and celebrate top fundraisers and teams, bringing extra excitement to each recognition moment. Meanwhile, generous donations and community support helped elevate the entire experience from fundraising incentives to event-day details that made everything feel more meaningful and fun.

At the end of the day, what stood out wasn’t just the numbers or the awards it was the feeling in the stadium. Packed with laughter, connection, and purpose, the Friendship Walk was a reminder of how powerful community can be when everyone shows up for inclusion.