October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments, abilities, talents, and contributions of people with Down syndrome while continuing to promote greater understanding, respect, and inclusion. At KenCCID, these values extend far beyond one month. Our mission is rooted in promoting dignity, choice, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and empowering each person to reach their fullest potential.

At KenCCID, we believe strong communities are built through connection, collaboration, and opportunities for people of all abilities to participate and belong. That spirit was on full display at Kessler Foundation’s Fall Fest, held October 4 at the Kessler Campus in West Orange, New Jersey. The event brought together people with disabilities, families, caregivers, researchers, advocates, and community organizations for an afternoon centered around inclusion, accessibility, re

There is exciting employment news at KenCCID—and this time, we have two accomplishments to celebrate! Pedro and Brittany have both been offered jobs in their communities, taking important steps toward greater independence, confidence, and connection through meaningful employment. At KenCCID, moments like these are worth celebrating because employment is about much more than earning a paycheck.

At KenCCID, community participation is about more than simply getting out into the community. It’s about having opportunities to connect, contribute, build confidence, explore interests, and make a meaningful difference. Through KenCCID’s Community Participation Support (CPS) Program, individuals are volunteering with Neshaminy State Park, helping care for a community space enjoyed by people throughout the region.

Direct Support Professional Recognition Week may have come to a close, but at KenCCID, our appreciation for our DSPs continues all year long. Throughout DSP Recognition Week 2026, we celebrated the incredible people who bring compassion, patience, dedication, and heart to the individuals we support each and every day. Our Direct Support Professionals do so much more than provide support.

Our KenCCID individuals recently enjoyed a fantastic day out at Lucky Strike, where good times, laughter, and plenty of smiles were the name of the game! From picking out the perfect bowling ball and lining up each shot to celebrating strikes, spares, and every effort in between, everyone had a wonderful time. The best part wasn’t the score—it was seeing individuals cheer one another on, share laughs, and create great memories together.

September 14–18 is DSP Recognition Week, and KenCCID is celebrating the incredible Direct Support Professionals who make a difference every single day. Behind every success story is someone who believes in the potential of others, offers encouragement through challenges, and helps individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism live lives filled with dignity, choices, independence, and meaningful community connections.

KenCCID proudly celebrates Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, September 13–19, 2026, honoring the dedicated DSPs who create opportunities, build connections, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities every day.

At KenCCID, advocacy isn't something that happens just at the Capitol or during legislative session —it's something we do every day. Every conversation, every success story, and every milestone achieved by the individuals we support helps tell a larger story about the importance of quality services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.