Members of the public are invited to join Best Buddies, and more than 1,000 participants and community supporters, at the eighth annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk, which will be held in Golden Gate Park on Saturday, April 21. Team check-in is at 8 a.m. and opening ceremonies begin at 9 a.m.

The Best Buddies Friendship Walk is the number one walk in the country raising awareness and funds to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Proceeds from the walk provide the necessary tools for people with disabilities to become more independent and “valued members of our society.”

The walk plays a key role in funding Best Buddies’ programs.

There is no fee to participate in the walk, but walkers are encouraged to raise at least $50 each to get a Friendship Walk T-shirt.

For more information or to register for the walk, go to the website at http://www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/bayarea.