Supporting learning and work at every stage of life
At eitas, we’re grateful for community partners who help people pursue their goals. Down Syndrome Innovations brings that support to people with Down syndrome and their families, creating opportunities to learn, work and build relationships throughout their lives.
October is both Down Syndrome Awareness Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month. It’s a chance to recognize people with Down syndrome, the contributions people with disabilities make at work and the partners who help expand those opportunities.
A community built by families
DSI’s commitment to community began in 1984, when parents came together to build a network of support. Originally known as the Down Syndrome Guild, the organization became Down Syndrome Innovations in 2021 as its services expanded and it moved to a new campus.
Today, that support begins with expectant and new parents and continues through older adulthood. Families can turn to DSI for therapies, employment support and caregiver education. Fitness programs, social groups and family events offer more ways to participate and connect.
Jody Michael describes what it means to be part of DSI:
“Working at DSI reminds me that great things happen when people believe in one another. We turn challenges into opportunities, support each other through every step, and celebrate every achievement as a team. I’m proud to be part of a place where we lift one another up and keep reaching higher together!”
Opportunities to keep learning and contribute
Mandy works at DSI’s front desk and is one of the people we’re celebrating in this month’s spotlight. Her role brings a personal connection to October’s focus on work and participation in community life.
For adults, DSI’s Adult Continuing Education program, known as ACE, offers opportunities to keep learning after school ends. Participants practice communication and daily living skills, explore employment skills and take part in community activities. Full-day programming, enrichment classes and social opportunities support learning and relationships.
For a parent whose daughter receives support from DSI, these opportunities make a difference for the whole family:
“I love coming home from work to see her smiling face and hear what she did that day. These activities for adults not just improve their lives, but also the parents. We feel very supported and DSI makes the very critical effort to expand that support to our community. She is always happily engaged while attending a DSI activity, and the DSI jobs camp gave her elevated experiences and fun.”- Parent of a participant
Support that continues throughout the year
In 2024, DSI reported delivering 43,600 hours of service across the communities it serves. That work reflects the ongoing support behind the organization’s programs and relationships with families.
This is work we value at eitas. Our 2026 funding supports DSI’s Fitness in the Community, Affordable Access to Specialized Services, Mental Health Services and Bridges to DMH Program.
The community showed its support this October, too. According to DSI’s update, more than 2,500 people gathered at Kauffman Stadium on Oct. 3 for the 31st Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk. The event raised more than $210,000 for programs supporting people with Down syndrome and their families. Mayor Quinton Lucas also proclaimed October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month in Kansas City.
“It means so much to see our city recognize the people we serve and the community that surrounds them,” Jennifer Dreiling, DSI’s CEO and president, shared in the October update.
We’re glad to have Down Syndrome Innovations in our community and grateful for the people who make its work possible. Their support creates opportunities for learning, employment and connection long after October ends.
Learn more about Down Syndrome Innovations and its Adult Continuing Education program.