PALS Programs

09/05/2026

"I have many friends with Down syndrome as well as an older brother... and although life gives them challenges, they persevere and are constantly surrounded by love."

Through 1,300+ handwritten letters across 13 camps this summer, our Participants took time to welcome new parents to the Down syndrome community with open arms and real-life encouragement.

From getting an education and securing a job to building lifelong friendships, our sibling participants know firsthand that the future holds so much to look forward to.

09/03/2026

We wrapped up our 2026 Peer to Peer fundraising campaign last month, and we are so excited to share that raised $75,101! ⁠🙌⁠
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Thank you to the 192 incredible fundraisers who helped make our inclusive camp experiences possible!
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We're so grateful to the entire PALS community and beyond for believing in our mission, and we can’t wait to keep expanding our impact in Summer 2027!

08/31/2026

Hands down the best group to share a summer with. Who else is missing camp right about now?

Tag your camp PALS below and send them some love ⬇️

08/26/2026

🏆Meet our Spirit of PALS Award Winners! 🏆

Every season, we celebrate two incredible individuals—one Partner and one Volunteer—who embody the mission, spirit, and values of PALS.

Please join us in giving a HUGE round of applause to this season’s winners!

PARTNER WINNER: Liam Ginnell
As one Participant shared, “Liam is genuinely one of the kindest people you will ever meet! He brought endless joy, bright energy, non-stop jokes, and the best hugs (always asking first! 🤗) to PALS San Francisco.” Thank you, Liam, for making sure everyone around you was always having fun and feeling cared for!

VOLUNTEER WINNER: Rachel Pyszora

“Rachel leads with both excellence and deep sincerity. Whether it’s bringing high energy to camp, making campers feel like the most important people in the world, or staying in touch throughout the year, her impact lasts far beyond camp week,” shared one PALS parent. Thank you, Rachel, for setting the bar high for inclusion and love!

To Liam, Rachel, and everyone who makes our PALS community so special—thank you for spreading the PALS values everywhere you go!

08/25/2026

PALS Programs is excited to host Adventure Weekends this fall, and your family is invited!

Whether you’re a long-time member of the PALS family or joining us for the first time, come connect with a fun, inclusive community. Attend solo, invite friends, or bring the whole family to enjoy waterpark thrills, social meetups, and special PALS-led activities designed to build lasting connections for individuals with Down syndrome, Volunteers, and supporters alike.

🔗Head to the link in our bio to read more about specific dates and locations!

08/08/2026

08/07/2026

We’re looking back at memories made this week in SF as we wrap up our last full day of camp today! It’s been a phenomenal past few days of inspiring a world of belonging 🌎

08/07/2026

Partner Arrival at our San Francisco 21+ program was a PARTY! We are off to a fantastic start, making new friendships and memories with our PALS 🎉