Celebrating 166 adoptions across the country, providing life-changing heart surgeries, and empowering individuals through educational grants and advocacy. THE ANGELS
Angels In Disguise is non-profit Down syndrome organization created in 2008. It began as a classical concert, held in honor and gratitude of a very special little girl, Elena Rose, on her first birthday. It has since grown into a caus
e, promoting Down syndrome awareness and celebrating the gifts of these incredible individuals. Elena Rose, and hundreds of thousands like her, are living proof that “normal” development or IQ are not prerequisites for life, happiness and love. Individuals with Down syndrome have a unique and unbelievable ability to enrich our lives, unlock our defenses and love so deeply. They are true angels who can touch our souls and warm our hearts, one smile at a time making the “typical” world around us a much better place. THE DISGUISE
Sadly, not everyone can see angels. Many cannot see the beauty of their disguise. Decades of negative and inaccurate public perception has minimized them. Far too often these individuals are underestimated by a focus on their disability rather than their ability. They are defined by a label, rather than their potential. There is not a more heartbreaking truth. When people with Down syndrome are inappropriately referenced, it sustains and perpetuates low expectations and negative stereotypes that further impede the acceptance of these angels in schools, the workplace and the community. This misunderstanding has hindered the cause of getting these individuals to a place they deserve in society, where they are welcomed and embraced as the uniquely valuable persons they are. Down syndrome is not a life sentence, it is a life enhancement. THE TRUTH
Fortunately, welcoming in society comes naturally as people take the time to get to know these angels. Given the opportunity and necessary support, individuals with Down syndrome thrive, raising the rest of us in the process. Their potential is limitless, their courage inspirational, their passion for love and life contagious, their smiles infectious. Anyone lucky enough to have a meaningful friendship with a Down syndrome individual is necessarily better for it. One person, one family, and one community at a time this truth is evident. They are true gifts, sent to teach us to love unconditionally. Angels full of wonder - no walls, no barriers, no prejudice. Their contribution to society only limited by our own attitudes and acceptance. THE HOPE
It is from this belief and offer of hope that Angels in Disguise was born. With a true understanding of Down syndrome, minds and misconceptions can change, hope can be given and precious lives can be enriched. By simply sharing the true gifts and potential of these individuals, , we can make a difference. Angels Disguise has changed hearts, minds, and lives across the nation, but there is much more work to be done. The only cure we seek is that of public perception. Fund raising, directly benefiting Down syndrome families and support groups, is only part of our efforts. Awareness is paramount. There are networks of amazing people in place across the country dedicated to the cause and hungry for the opportunity. They just need a little help. We are simply looking to give Down syndrome a voice and wings. A choir of angels will take it from there.
