Bodhi Candelaria To Represent the Down Syndrome Community in Unique Annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Video Presentation

NEW YORK, New York (August 17, 2026) – Bodhi Candelaria of Albuquerque, New
Mexico, will appear in the bright lights of Times Square on Saturday, September 12, as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video Presentation. The one-hour video of 500+ photographs includes children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states and 12 countries. These collective images highlight individuals with Down syndrome in the most visible way – on two screens in the heart of Times Square. 

The photo of Bodhi was selected from more than 2,700 entries in the NDSS worldwide call for
photos. His photo will be shown on two Jumbotron screens thanks to the support of Clear Channel Outdoor. The two screens are above Dos Caminos restaurant in Father Duffy Square. The presentation will be livestreamed on the NDSS Facebook page from 8:30-9:30am ET on September 12.   
 
Bodhi Candelaria, 8, smiles from inside a glowing light installation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bodhi, who has Down Syndrome and is hard-of-hearing, has been selected to appear in the 2026 National Down Syndrome Society Times Square Video Presentaion in New York City.
  
The Times Square Video Presentation kicks off the New York City Buddy Walk®, which takes place at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park. This flagship Buddy Walk® has taken place in New York City since 1995 as part of the National Buddy Walk® Program. Over 150 Buddy Walk events are held in communities across the country and select international locations.

For more information about the New York City Buddy Walk on September 12 or the National Buddy Walk Program, please visit www.ndss.org.

Families who would like to support Bodhi and Bodhi’s Mates in New York can join the team or donate at https://heyor.ca/hTQcZT