NCKDSS

Help build the world we dream of

Our Mission

NCKDSS supports individuals with Down syndrome and their families by building community, sharing resources, and promoting acceptance through advocacy and events.

Support

Connecting families with encouragement, local help, and a network that understands.

Resources

Sharing information, forms, and opportunities that help families thrive year-round.

Awareness → Acceptance

Promoting inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities across North Central Kansas.

What we do

Community • Events • Advocacy

Host the annual Buddy Walk and community events
Provide funding assistance opportunities when available
Partner with families, schools, and organizations to strengthen inclusion

Awareness is Everything

21 Buddy Walks

Each October, NCKDSS sponsors a "Buddy Walk" to promote the acceptance of all people with Down Syndrome.

Over 900 Walkers

The Buddy Walk has grown every year from 30 participants to over 900 participants.

Since 2002

NCKDSS was established in 2002 by two families to help children reach their full potential in community life.

What is Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome results when an individual has three copies of the 21st chromosome. This extra genetic material affects development, though every individual is unique. Many common characteristics are found in the general population as well.

Why Be Concerned

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition, affecting 1 in every 800 to 1,000 births. Chromosomal abnormalities cause a high percentage of miscarriages as well.

Annual Buddy Walk

Since 1995, the Buddy Walk® has become the premier advocacy event for Down Syndrome. NCKDSS has hosted it annually in North Central Kansas since 2002 on the first Sunday in October.

National Society

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for individuals with Down syndrome, advocating for policy, education, research, and public awareness since 1979.

Support Down Syndrome Awareness
with an official Kansas License Plate

Now Available in all 105 Counties in Kansas!

Head to your local county treasurer’s office with your driver’s license, current license plate, and current vehicle registration and request your Down Syndrome Awareness Kansas license plate today!

Any Kansas resident can receive a Down Syndrome Awareness (DSA) plate.

A $25 contribution to the North Central Kansas Down Syndrome Society is required when you purchase or renew a DSA license plate.

The state of Kansas has changed to a new digital printing system for license plates. You’ll receive a temporary tag when you purchase a plate, and the new DSA plate will be mailed to you. Kansas county treasurers are authorized to accept the $25 contribution when you pay your annual state tag fees and vehicle taxes.

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