Nonprofit Spotlight: Down Syndrome Association of Delaware

BY REGINA DONATO

›› In one in every 691 births, a child is born with an additional copy of the 21st chromosome. Down syndrome, one of the most well-known and easily identifiable chromosomal variations, affects individuals in a wide variety of ways. All people born with Down syndrome display some cognitive delays, but the effects are not representative of the individual’s unique talents, strengths, and personality traits. Organizations like the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSA of Delaware) provide support and programming to allow these individuals and their families to thrive by reaching their full potential.

Founded in 1979, the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware serves approximately 500 families in Delaware and surrounding states each year. “Our organization assists across the lifespan of an individual from the moment they are born, to when they first start school, need a job, or are looking for health care assistance and housing options,” explained Executive Director Lauren Camp Gates. “We are there to support families through any step in their child’s life.”

Within 24 hours of a child being born with Down syndrome in Delaware, an outreach team member sends a gift basket and information, welcoming their parents to the tight-knit community the organization has fostered over the years. As they grow, the child and their family have access to DSA of Delaware’s wide range of programming, including Yoga classes, bingo nights, summer camps, and educational resources.

The hard work of their employees and loyal volunteers are the reason DSA of Delaware has experienced so much growth over the years. Camp Gates herself started as a volunteer when she was in high school and founded the organization’s popular Days of Summer Camp as her senior project. The program now serves over 200 children every summer. The organization’s other two full-time employees were also long-time volunteers.

DSA of Delaware has grown to be one of the largest Down Syndrome Associations on the East Coast. While they didn’t have dedicated office space just a few years ago, they now operate out of a storefront office in Newark, featuring training facilities, a gift shop, and a community café where adults with Down syndrome can work and gain employment experience. They’re hoping to open a second location and expand into Southern Delaware within the next 18 months.

“I think a misconception is that our organization only serves people with Down syndrome, but I really see our organization as serving the community at large,” remarked Camp Gates. “We always offer volunteer opportunities. We also partner with many local businesses to both provide support for them to hire adults with Down syndrome and even work with them to offer joint programming.” Advocacy of this nature is even more important during a time where so many businesses are experiencing staffing shortages. It is important for employers to remember that those with intellectual disabilities are hirable and can be extremely loyal and hardworking employees.

The State Chamber honored the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware with the Award of Excellence at the Superstars in Business Awards Luncheon in November—a true testament to their dedication to the individuals and community they serve, the success of their programming, and the smiles they produce along the way.