About Blessed by Downs
Our History
BLESSED by Downs was founded by Sheri Dupre’ DeFelice in 2009. Sheri was inspired to create the non-profit organization after giving birth to an exceptional set of twins. Her daughter, Olivia, was unexpectedly born with Down syndrome, while her son, Jayce, was born a typical child. DeFelice believes Olivia and others like her should be given the same opportunities as anyone else.
BLESSED By Downs is a support group for parents, families and individuals born with Down syndrome.
BLESSED by Downs is a 501-C3 organization.
We work with the National Down Syndrome Society and the National Down Syndrome of Congress, as well as, several local and state advocacy centers. Our organization runs entirely on donations from people like you.
What We Do
BLESSED by Downs is committed to creating a brighter future for our loved ones who were born with Down syndrome, by changing what we can and creating more opportunities in our local community.
BLESSED by Downs is committed to advocating, educating, raising awareness, promote acceptance & inclusion, providing support and celebrating individuals with Down syndrome.
BLESSED by Downs is committed to helping expecting parents understand what a blessing their family is about to receive and making sure they know ALL of their options… giving birth, abortion AND adoption. We can provide resources for all.
What We Have Done So Far..
- BBD provides a New & Expecting Parents with a very informative binder full of information, as well as, stories from local parents who share what a blessing their child has been to their lives.
- BBB has hosted local Buddy Walks® in our community each year for over 10 years
- BBD provide life-saving swimming skills/lessons for all individuals with different disabilities in our community through Crawfish Aquatics.
- BBD help create the herb garden at Nicholls State University. For more information click: https://www.nicholls.edu/news/2017/10/06/nonprofit-pledges-donation-to-bridge-to-independence/ and https://www.nicholls.edu/news/2018/03/12/nicholls-bridge-to-independence-culinary-institute-programs-partner/
- We’ve provided educational scholarships for individuals with Down syndrome in our community
- We have created yearly calendars with photos of our members to raise awareness
- We host family events for our families so that they can get to know and support each other
- We’ve hosted moms-night-out to allow our busy moms a break and socialize with others who understand their demands and struggles
- We traveled to Washington, DC & to other events to advocate for individuals with Down syndrome
- And so much more…