DSSW Parade of Stars

It's been 20 years since the organization held its first walk, and we're excited about continuing the tradition! This year's event will kick off with a morning 5K, followed by our traditional parade 1-mile walk of fame, followed by a cornhole tournament!

Because of your past generosity, the organization has taken great strides toward its mission, including a job skills development program, continued learning series for parents and caregivers, and initial renovations of the new center for programs. 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. With your generosity, the organization receives support to continue its operations, while 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 support networks 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 ProgramArtist WorkshopsLearning SeriesConnection GroupsNew Parent OutreachLazos de Amor Spanish-speaking groupExplore 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.

Pathway Sponsors: We encourage area businesses to participate in the fun, while joining this important event! Pathway sponsors will receive a sign on the walkway featuring over 100 individuals along with their business, to highlight their support in a meaningful way!

Dates to Remember

September 8 - Registration cut off with shirt
September 22 - Online registration ends
October 2 - Basket tickets available online
October 5 - Packet Pickup begins
October 6 - Packet Pickup continues
October 7 - Packet Pickup continues
October 8 - Final day of Packet Pickup ( we cannot accommodate pick-ups after this date. All items will be available at the event, starting at 10am.)October 11 - Last day for online basket tickets

All sales are final. No refunds.