Description

We're ready for our in-person experience with this year's theme, Walk 'n Roll! Along with good music and fun times, we are looking forward to a time of celebration for the individuals we serve during Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

Because of your past assistance, the organization has taken great strides toward its mission, including a new adult independence building program, continued learning series for parents and caregivers, and recently, relocation into its own building to expand programs and services! The Parade of Stars: Down Syndrome Awareness Day of Giving is the largest awareness and advocacy fundraiser in Wichita in support of the Down Syndrome Society of Wichita. This event (formerly known as the Buddy Walk) is a one-mile parade route, along with our annual (and largest) day of giving AND largest opportunity for volunteers to show their support!  With your support, the organization can continue to not only keep their doors open, but continue serving individuals in our community who need it most through effective programs and services for years to come.

Who is the Down Syndrome Society of Wichita?

The Down Syndrome Society of Wichita is a non-profit located in Wichita, KS, serving individuals with Down syndrome and their community including medical professionals, educators, supporters and of course families! While the name ends with Wichita, the service area stretches across the lower one-third portion of Kansas - including Hutchinson, Garden City,Dodge City and Liberal. Families are empowered through relevant learning series, connectivity, community support, resources, tools and valuable programs and services to impact lives. Just a few highlighted programs include:

• Summer of Discovery Learning and Exploration Program


• Artist Workshops


• Learning Series


• Connection Groups


• New Parent Outreach


• Lazos de Amor Spanish-speaking group


• Explore ICT Adult Life Skills

Your help is vital in ensuring organizational success!

While we are celebrating those individuals with Down syndrome, this fundraiser is important in the health and vitality of the organization. We still have families who need access to learning series workshops to provide better care. We still have adults with Down syndrome who need art workshops to creatively express themselves. Parents still need a core group for bonding and growth opportunities. New parents still need access to books and resources to begin their journey. Summer programming is still important for siblings to engage in memorable summer learning experiences together. Expansion of services is still needed in order to provide value to those we serve, while filling missing needs in our community. Funds raised stay local and go directly to support the work of the organization.

New This Year!

Corporate Challenge: We encourage area businesses to participate in the fun, while joining this important event! Teams of eight or more from one company are recognized on the onsite banner as sponsors and mentioned in opening ceremony. Interested in forming a corporate team? Email us at [email protected] for your team packet!

T-Shirts: We encourage participants to step up the celebration for their loved one and their team! Help celebrate your individual shirts, be creative and go all out for your team this year! If teams need assistance in locating printing companies, we are happy to provide recommendations. Event Shirts are available with registration if you prefer not to create your own team shirts.

Team prizes: We celebrate and stand with all individuals! For this year's fundraiser, we will be celebrating our top fundraising team! No matter if the team size is 5 or 50, the top fundraising team will be honored and provided prizes.

QR Codes: We want to make fundraising easy this year! Use a QR code to text and email your network and avoid the need to carry around that pesky sign up sheet! 

Dates to Remember

September 15 - Last day to register with shirt 

September 22 - Pathway sign submission deadline

September 28 - Online registration closes 

October 1 - Packet pick-up drive through

October 2 - Packet pick-up drive through

October 3 - Final day of packet pick-up drive through

October 3 - Final turn in for money to count toward team fundraising total

All sales are final. No refunds.