October 7, 2026

Happy Down Syndrome

Awareness Month!


Show your Down syndrome pride with our 2026 yard sign.


Purchase a sign on our website and have it shipped to your home!

Thank you for making The Lucky Few Fashion Show a smashing success!!

A note from our Executive Director, Linda Smarto:

Miss the fun?


View the recap HERE on ABC7!

View the Fashion Show program HERE.

A big thank you to our basket crew for putting together all the amazing auction and raffle baskets! It's a huge undertaking, and these ladies did an outstanding job!

Congratulations to our TOP 5 fundraising models! You guys did phenomenal!

Didn't get to support your favorite model? Theres still time to donate!

THANK YOU to our generous Sponsors & Star Donors!

This show could not have been the success it was without your support!

UPCOMING EVENTS

*WE NEED VOLENTEERS*

If you are interested in volunteering with NADS at the upcoming Buddy Walk, please contact Linda at lsmarto@nads.org.

Scan the QR code to sign up for the NADS Dads upcoming meetup!

SMALL GIFTS=BIG IMPACT

Save The Date!

If you are interested in becoming part of this great community,

contact Linda at lsmarto@nads.org. Self-Advocates in Action (SAIA) is open to individuals with Down syndrome ages 16+ nationwide. The group meets biweekly on Zoom for community, learning, and fun. Most meetings are virtual, with a few in-person opportunities each year.


New Down syndrome research could offer a new hope for Alzheimer's treatment


A flurry of research involving people with Down syndrome is offering new hope for them and for the future of Alzheimer’s treatment. 

National Association for Down Syndrome fashion show celebrates confidence, inclusion in Glen Ellyn


"The Lucky Few Fashion Show" brought together models of all ages and the families cheering them on, giving children with Down syndrome an opportunity to take the spotlight on the runway. ABC7's Mark Rivera served as emcee for the event.

Do you have photos to share for our

#NADStrong campaign?

Please send them to sdecoste@nads.org

Get Involved with NADS!

NADS Dads

Join our NADS Dads Facebook Group, a private space just for fathers to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and support one another. Click here to join: NADS Dads Facebook Group. You’re not alone; be part of a community that understands.

Social Media



FOLLOW NADS on Social Media!

Facebook @ NADSfan,

Instagram @nadschicago,

and LinkedIN @national-association-for-down-syndrome


Facebook          Instagram          LinkedIn

Babies In Bloom


Share your stories, triumphs, and challenges with other parents of babies and toddlers with Down syndrome! This group is exclusively for families whose children with Ds range from prenatal to age 4.

Down syndrome + Autism


Join our judgement free Facebook group for parents and caregivers of children and adults with Down syndrome and Autism. Join our community today!

Calling All Volunteers!


Want to make a difference in the Down syndrome community?


Share your time and talent with us!


NADS is always in need of great people to help with events and activities! Please consider volunteering!



Click HERE to have a NADS member contact you!









NADS partners with 46 hospitals in the Chicagoland area to support families!


Family, friends, neighbors - if you know of someone who has or is expecting a child with Down syndrome, we would love to connect with them! NADS gifts these families with a beautiful new baby basket and connects them with resources and support.


Schedule a complimentary "Abilities" Training for your school or workplace!


NADS offers informative presentations to spread our message of awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome.


In-person and Zoom options are available.


Email Anne for more information areinertson@nads.org

Maximize Your Impact

Did you know 65% of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gift programs? Be sure to inquire at work about corporate donation matching! Many companies even allow employees to submit match requests for one year following the date of the donation!


CLICK HERE to see if your employer offers this option!


Rock Your Socks: Collect donations to help promote Down syndrome awareness!


Declare a special dress day and collect a small donation from each participant, with proceeds benefiting NADS! Don't forget to take a photo of your group so we can share your Ds Spirit! 💙💛

Don't need anything for your special day?

Spread the love you get from others within the Down syndrome community!


Designate NADS as a gift recipient by setting up a fundraiser on Facebook or by simply sharing this link with your friends and family:

http://weblink.donorperfect.com/nadsdonation

Memorial Candles & Donations

NADS created this beautiful candle to send to the families of individuals who have passed away, in honor of donations made in their memory.


If you would like to honor a loved one with donations to NADS, we would be happy to send you a packet of specialized envelopes for easy collection. 

Email Sara at sdecoste@nads.org for more information.

 


We are proud to be the 1st and OLDEST

Down Syndrome Organization in the country!



For 65 years, NADS has been a leader in the Down syndrome community. Please consider helping us carry out our mission: "To ensure that all persons with Down syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their full potential in all aspects of community life." Your tax-deductible gift will help us continue to educate, congratulate, and spread our message. Thank you for your kindness and support of the National Association for Down Syndrome.

NADS | 630-325-9112 | info@nads.org | www.nads.org

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