October Is Down Syndrome Awareness Month

“It’s not about celebrating disabilities, it’s about celebrating abilities.” — Chris Burke, NDSS Goodwill Ambassador

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to honor abilities, raise awareness, and celebrate the lives and contributions of people with Down syndrome. At Northwest Mental Health Management Services (NWMHMS), where we support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), this month is close to our hearts.

We believe that everyone deserves dignity, independence, and opportunities to thrive. Awareness is not about labels—it’s about recognizing potential, amplifying voices, and building a more inclusive community.

Why This Month Matters

Down syndrome is one of many conditions under the I/DD umbrella. Far too often, stereotypes overshadow the real stories of people with Down syndrome—stories filled with achievement, creativity, joy, and resilience.

At NWMHMS, we join national and local advocates in promoting awareness because:

• Abilities deserve recognition: People with Down syndrome are leaders, learners, creators, and friends.

• Advocacy builds change: Speaking out helps ensure that education, healthcare, and workplaces are inclusive and accessible.

• Community is stronger when everyone belongs: True inclusion requires all of us to listen, learn, and support.

As Chris Burke reminds us, “It’s not about celebrating disabilities, it’s about celebrating abilities.”

Local Events & Ways to Get Involved

Here in the Portland–Vancouver metro area, there are several ways to engage, learn, and connect during Down Syndrome Awareness Month:

• GiGi’s Playhouse Portland – GiGi’s Playhouse offers free programming for individuals with Down syndrome and hosts community events, including October fundraisers and family activities.
  

• Northwest Down Syndrome Association (NWDSA) – Serving Oregon and Southwest Washington, NWDSA provides advocacy, family support, and educational programming. Watch for upcoming fall events and awareness opportunities.
  

• Clackamas County – Partner organizations often host inclusion events during October. Check with schools, community centers, and NWDSA for county-level programs.
  

• National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) – For those unable to attend in person, NDSS offers virtual webinars, awareness campaigns, and advocacy resources throughout the month.

Whether you join an event, share resources online, or simply start a conversation, your participation makes a difference.

How We Engage at NWMHMS

As an organization, we’re taking this month to highlight the strengths and stories of the people we serve. Our efforts include:

• Sharing client success stories internally and with our community

• Providing staff education on inclusion and advocacy

• Partnering with local organizations like GiGi’s Playhouse and NWDSA

• Encouraging clients and families to attend community events and spread awareness

• Supporting national campaigns through NDSS
  

Join Us in Celebrating Abilities

At NWMH, we know that every person has abilities worth celebrating. This October, we invite staff, families, and community partners to stand with us in amplifying voices, breaking down barriers, and embracing inclusion.

Together, we can move the conversation beyond “disability” and toward the unique abilities, talents, and potential of every person.

💙 Celebrate. Advocate. Include.